All you need to know as an African to migrate to Germany as a qualified skilled worker.
Since early 2020, Germany introduced a new law that makes it easy for foreign skilled workers to migrate and settle in Germany. This is indicative of the number of jobs go unfilled in Germany, over 1.2 million presently. So, this law will help foreigners, especially Non-EU (Africans) migrate and settle. Here are some facts you should take note of as an African if you’re considering taking advantage of this opportunity to relocate and start a life in Germany.
1. The new law is for Specialist; Academics with a university degree that is recognized in Germany, and workers with qualified professional and vocational training also recognized in Germany. To check for more information about recognition of qualifications in Germany, check here https://www.anerkennung-in-deutschland.de/html/en/index.php
2. The new law makes it easier for Non-EU qualified professionals to access the German labour market. This means that a qualified African for instance, can apply for a job and be considered for the role without a check as to whether an applicant from Germany or the EU is available for that role.
3. Professionals with no vocational training qualification or job offer are also able to come to Germany to look for a job. They will be granted a resident permit for up to six months to search for a job. The condition is that the person must prove that they can support themselves for the duration of their stay and has the necessary German language skills for the desired occupation – generally, at least B1 level. During this six-month period, they can also get part time employment of up to 10hours a week.
4. Foreign trained professionals from Africa for instance, are also able to receive a permanent settlement permit, after four years of being in Germany.
5. Specialists in the following professions are south after in high demand; doctors, physiotherapists and nurses, IT specialists, engineers and craftsmen in the construction industry, experts in aerospace, mechatronics, electrical engineering, energy technology and other STEM professions (mathematics, computer science, natural sciences and technology).
a. Since IT specialists are particularly sought-after, there is a special regulation for them. They can enter the country without training - provided they can prove that they have been working in the business for several years.
b. To see more about jobs in demand in Germany, check here https://www.deutschland.de/en/topic/business/jobs-in-demand-in-germany-and-job-seeking-tips
So, if you’re a qualified professional, this is what you must do to work in Germany.
a. Recognition of professional qualifications acquired abroad. This is the first step. https://www.anerkennung-in-deutschland.de/html/en/index.php or find the contact to call here https://www.make-it-in-germany.com/en/about-the-portal/contact/hotline/
b. Meet the language skills. You will need to speak some German if you wish to come to Germany to find a training place or to seek a job as a skilled worker with a vocational qualification. https://www.make-it-in-germany.com/en/living-in-germany/german/german-knowledge/
c. Contact the German mission in your country for visa/residency.
Topic: skilled migration to Germany, would people with skills and experience in non-academical fields be considered? Such as Animation etc.
I think it's encouraging what Germany has done. I'd like to see other European countries follow suit, and encourage skilled workers migration.