Skilled Immigration Act reform expands employment routes
In force
Visa & immigration
Germany phased in its reformed Skilled Immigration Act from November 2023 through June 2024. The changes broadened EU Blue Card eligibility, made it easier for recognised skilled workers to work outside the exact field of their qualification, created routes based on professional experience without prior German recognition in specified cases, and introduced recognition partnerships. Each route retains its own qualification, salary, recognition and Federal Employment Agency conditions.
Who it affects
Non-EU skilled workers, experienced professionals and employers recruiting from abroad.
Sources
Primary: Make it in Germany — the new Skilled Immigration Act ↗
Verified 2026-08-02 · methodology