New German law broadens immigration opportunities for skilled Filipino workers

Germany has passed legislation giving skilled workers from around the world, including the Philippines, more opportunities to migrate there.

German Ambassador to the Philippines Andreas Pfaffernoshke said in a statement Wednesday, Dec. 20, that he is seeing vast potential in expanding ties between both countries, particularly with the launching of Skilled Migration Act.

"We will foster cooperation on the migration of skilled workers to Germany in technical professions," he said.

Accordingtothegermanembassy in Manila, the new legislation "will introduce novel channels for skilled workers from countries outside the European Union (Eu)—including the Philippines —to immigrate to Germany."

"This act significantly broadens opportunities for individuals seeking entry into Germany and the European Union for the recognition of their foreign professional qualifications. The phased implementation of these new regulations began in November this year," it said.

For skilled workers with higher educational background, the embassy said, immigration possibilities for them are going to be expanded through the EU Blue Card, which features lowered salary thresholds, expanded eligibility, an extended list of professions, and facilitated family reunification.

Information Technology (IT) specialists, for example, may secure an EU Blue Card based on professional experience alone, without a formal qualification.

The measure also ensures that skilled workers with professional or academic training are entitled to a residence permit, provided all requirements are met.

"Those with completed professional qualifications or higher education can engage in any qualified employment within the non-regulated sector, and the connection between training and employment is no longer mandatory," the embassy said.