If you’re interested in coming to Germany, it’s essential to stay informed about the recent changes in regulations. These new rules will impact international students, families, and job seekers, making it easier for individuals from abroad to establish themselves in Germany. Here’s a detailed overview of the seven new rules, including six positive updates and one concerning change.
New Working Hours for International Students
Increased Working Hours
One of the most significant changes is the increase in working hours for international students. Previously, students were allowed to work 120 full days or 240 half days per year. However, a new law under consideration will allow students to work 140 full days or 280 half days.
Potential Earnings
This change translates to an additional 20 full working days per year, amounting to approximately 160 hours. Here’s a quick breakdown of the potential extra earnings:
| Hours Worked | Minimum Wage (€12/hour) | Total Earnings (€) |
|---|---|---|
| 160 hours | €12 | €2,000 |
By allowing more work hours, students can gain valuable work experience and increase their income, which is beneficial not just for them but also for the German economy, which is currently facing a labor shortage.
New Five-Year Citizenship Law
Path to Citizenship
The federal cabinet has approved a significant change regarding citizenship. After five years of legal residency in Germany, individuals can now apply for citizenship.
- Previous Requirement: 7-8 years
- Extraordinary Skills: Citizenship can be granted in as little as three years for those with exceptional German language skills or achievements.
Dual Citizenship
Another positive aspect of this new law is the allowance for dual citizenship. For instance, individuals can now retain their original nationality while obtaining German citizenship, a significant shift from previous regulations.
Family Reunification
Parents Joining International Students
Another update is the ability for international students to invite their parents for long-term stays in Germany. Previously, parents could only visit for a maximum of three months. Under the new rules, individuals arriving on a Blue Card after March 2024 can potentially have their parents join them for a more extended period.
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Visa Type | Blue Card (Post-March 2024) |
| Maximum Visit Duration | Previously 3 months |
However, the details regarding family members allowed, duration of stay, health insurance, salary requirements, and accommodation details are yet to be clarified.
Changes to the Blue Card
Salary Threshold Adjustments
The Blue Card, which serves as a work permit, is undergoing changes to its salary threshold. The annual salary requirement has decreased from:
| Field | Previous Salary Threshold (€) | New Salary Threshold (€) |
|---|---|---|
| Non-STEM | 58,000 | 43,000 |
| STEM | 45,000 | 39,000 |
This adjustment allows more professionals to qualify for a Blue Card, especially in fields facing labor shortages.
Implications for Applicants
It’s important to note that while the salary threshold has been lowered, it does not affect the salary agreed upon between the employer and the employee. The goal is to facilitate access to the Blue Card for more skilled workers, contributing to the workforce in Germany.
Valuing Experience Over Degrees
Changes in Professional Qualifications
The emphasis is shifting from formal degrees to professional experience. Key changes include:
- Flexibility in Job Field: Individuals can now obtain a Blue Card even if they wish to transition into a different field.
- Exemptions for IT Professionals: Those with 2-3 years of IT experience may qualify for a Blue Card without a formal degree.
- Degree Equivalence: If you have 2-3 years of relevant work experience, you won’t need to have your degree formally recognized in Germany.
Introduction of the Opportunity Card
Job Search Visa
The Opportunity Card, a new job search visa, allows individuals to seek employment in Germany for up to one year, significantly longer than the previous six-month job seeker visa. Here are some key features:
- Working Hours: Holders can work 20 hours per week while searching for a job.
- Points-Based System: Applicants need to gather six points based on criteria such as job experience, education, and language proficiency.
Concerning News: Introduction of Tuition Fees
Tuition Fees in Public Universities
In a surprising turn of events, a leading public university in Germany has introduced tuition fees. While Germany is renowned for free education, certain states now have the option to charge tuition. The first state to implement this was Baden-Württemberg, and now Bavaria has also enacted similar legislation.
Technical University of Munich, the top university in Germany, plans to charge:
| Program Level | Tuition Fee (€) |
|---|---|
| Bachelor’s | 2,000 – 3,000 |
| Master’s | 4,000 – 6,000 |
Impact on Students
These fees will apply primarily to students from developing countries, while EU students from 26 countries will continue to benefit from free education. It is important to note that there are currently no plans at the federal level to abolish free education entirely.
Conclusion
The recent updates in German immigration and educational policies present numerous opportunities for international students and workers. While there is concerning news about tuition fees, the overall changes are geared towards making Germany a more accessible and attractive destination for skilled individuals. For those looking to start their journey, summer semester admissions are on the horizon, so now is the time to take action.