Germany has relaxed visa rules for foreign students, making residency easier. Effective March 1st, the measures aim to enable student employment and ease permanent residency, and family reunification regulations.
The Federal Ministry of Education announced that foreign students and trainees will benefit from expanded employment options, including up to 20 hours per week for working students or alongside training.
Revisions to student permits include expanded working rights and extended validity periods, providing flexibility for employment while studying. Adjustments to permanent residency and family reunification rules aim to streamline processes for foreigners settling in Germany.
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These reforms contribute to a more inclusive immigration system. While other countries tighten restrictions, Germany adopts an immigration-friendly approach. For example, Canada plans to reduce international student arrivals by 35%, while Australia increases English language requirements for visas.
Germany’s policies aim to attract skilled individuals, including the introduction of the points-based ‘Opportunity Card’ (‘Chancenkarte’) to bolster the economy and society.
The reforms respond to labor shortages in Germany, which requires around 400,000 immigrants annually to sustain its economy and exports. Labor shortages have reached unprecedented levels, impacting business efficiency according to 90% of surveyed companies.
