Will Immigration Reform Be Enough to Combat Germany's Worker Shortage?

Will Immigration Reform Be Enough To Combat Germany's Worker Shortage?

By: Emily Wilson

In modern times, the German economy is overwhelmed by a worker shortage. From heavy industry and the healthcare industry to household maintenance, there is one acute labor shortage problem. Germany will likely work on immigration reform to combat the labor shortage issue and offer Germany work visa. As per the Association of German Chambers of Commerce and Industry, around 56% of German companies report labor shortages.

Germany's Current Work Scenario and Migration Reform to Get a Germany Work Permit.


Shortage of the Working Force

Shortage of people is a common problem in every work sector. For example, a company is hiring one person, and the person must play the responsibilities of five persons. The case is not only for specialist jobs, as it is the same for general people. Even there is a large vacancy for unskilled laborers.

Influences of the Boomers' retire

The huge shortage of workers results from the Baby Boomer generation's retirement. The report mentions that every year almost 50,000 working-age people retire. However, there need to be more young workers to fill their positions; by 2035, there will be a shortage of around 7 million working people.

Lackluster Labor Laws

The Lackluster labor laws mention that every year there is a need for 400,000 foreign workers to come and stay in Germany. Through the immigrant labor force, the country can combat the labor shortage. However, the law has several shortfalls, and therefore is an urgent need for reformation in labor law.


Reform of Asylum Rules

Besides the reformation of the Lackluster labor laws, employers also are looking for a reformation of the asylum rules. The previous rule deprived refugees of getting jobs in Germany, so the law should also be modified. However, the task is challenging as it can be a long process to offer them Germany Work Sponsorship.

Applying for a German Work Permit

According to Sections 18a and 18b (1) AufenthG (German Residence Act), if you are a qualified professional, you can apply for a work permit to work in Germany.

Requirements to Get a German Work Visa
  • Recognized Germany post study visa with a valid degree comparable to a German higher education institution.
  • An actual job offers from a German company.
  • A minimum gross salary of €46,530 if the applicant is 45 or above, looking for a position for the first time.

Required documents for a German Work Visa or Germany Post Study Work Visa
  • Valid passport
  • Application form
  • Copy of passport's data page
  • Annexure for employment visa
  • Employment contract
  • Deputation order from current employer
  • Personal covering letter
  • Proof of qualification and experience
  • CV
  • 3 passport pictures
  • Demand Draft
  • Health insurance certificate

Summing up

So currently, there are more than 1.7 million job openings nationwide. An immediate reformation in the present labor laws and asylum rules can be beneficial to overcome the workforce crisis in Germany. Contact your nearby immigration office to learn the latest updates about the German Work Visa, immigration programs, Germany Work Visa sponsorship, and more.