What expats need to know about changes to German immigration law in 2025

The agreement between Germany's CDU/CSU-SPD coalition government outlines their aims for the coming years, introducing several potentially significant changes to German immigration policy. While some policies are becoming more restrictive, others remain favourable to skilled workers and those seeking to build a life in Germany. 

It should be noted that the coalition agreement outlines the German government's objectives and plans; it is not the law. Therefore, current regulations regarding German citizenship and immigration will remain in place until the government actively change the legal situation. 

German citizenship law: Key changes and continuations

The coalition agreement preserves many elements of the recently reformed citizenship law, but it does make some notable adjustments.

Here's what is staying the same: 

• Five-year residency requirement: The reduced standard waiting period for naturalisation (previously eight years) will remain in place.
• Dual citizenship option: The possibility of maintaining dual citizenship when becoming a naturalised German citizen continues, provided your home country also permits dual nationality.
• German citizenship for spouses of German citizens: The coalition agreement will continue to allow spouses of German citizens to gain citizenship after residing in Germany for three years.

There are, however, some noteworthy changes: 

• Elimination of "turbo naturalisation": The previously-introduced fast-track option that allowed naturalisation after three years based on outstanding integration achievements (excellent language skills, professional accomplishments or volunteer work) will be abolished. Those eligible for naturalisation after three years should strongly consider making an application now, before it is no longer possible. 
• Introduction of a "work-and-stay agency": The coalition plans to establish a dedicated "work-and-stay agency", designed to attract and retain international talent in Germany.

Contact the team at Schlun & Elseven Rechtsanwälte if you need guiding through these changes.

The new "work-and-stay agency": Opportunities for skilled workers

The proposed "work-and-stay agency" will be a new digital agency that streamlines application processes for skilled worker visas while providing centralised information and support services for international job seekers.

The agency is expected to offer potential incentives for skilled workers who commit to medium or long-term residence, improve recognition processes for foreign qualifications, and enhance connections between German employers and international talent.

However, it is challenging to assess how this agency will develop in practice and its exact role. Specific details regarding its role are still forthcoming.

Until this agency is fully established and operational, professional legal advice is strongly recommended for skilled professionals when facing significant and complex questions regarding how best to make the move to Germany.

Integration, language courses and recognition of qualifications

The coalition agreement outlines several ways that the government intends to encourage the inward migration of skilled professionals. In addition to the "work-and-stay agency", the agreement sets ambitious targets for accelerating the recognition procedure for qualifications from abroad.

The agreement also frequently refers to German language acquisition, with plans to ensure long-term provision of vocational language courses nationwide, combined with on-the-job language training and qualification opportunities.

For international graduates who complete their studies in Germany, the coalition agreement outlines how the incoming government aims to create more substantial incentives for them to remain and work in the country.

The agreement presents enhanced educational opportunities for expatriate children by expanding the Startchancen programme in daycare centres. This initiative aims to provide early language immersion and cultural integration, potentially easing the transition for professionals' children into the German education system. The planned reintroduction of language-focused daycare centres particularly benefits families arriving with young children.

For accompanying spouses, the agreement outlines continued funding for Migration Counselling for Adult Immigrants (MBE) and improved qualification recognition services, addressing the "trailing spouse" career challenge.

The coalition also plans to introduce a "family budget" for household support services for families with small children and/or relatives requiring care, which is particularly beneficial for dual-career professional couples.

Family reunification in the coalition agreement

The coalition agreement introduces some distinctions in family reunification rights that will not impact the majority of high-skilled professionals seeking to move to Germany.

If a person holds an EU Blue Card, an ICT card, or a standard skilled worker residence permit, their family reunification rights remain fully intact. Their spouses and minor children can join them without quotas, with only proof of adequate housing and financial means required.

Restrictions will affect those with subsidiary protection status, for whom reunification will be suspended for a limited period of two years, with exemptions only for hardship cases. In 2027, the policy will be reviewed to determine whether to extend the suspension or return to the quota system. 

Considerations for prospective expats

The coalition agreement provides an outlook as to how Germany's immigration landscape may develop in the coming years. At the time of writing, these proposals are not yet law in Germany.

However, depending on your timeframe for moving to Germany or acquiring German citizenship, the potential implications of the coalition agreement should be considered by those looking to secure their status and opportunities in Germany.

• Proactive planning: Review your current situation against the forthcoming potential changes to identify opportunities and potential challenges. When preparing to come to Germany, be aware that seemingly minor details can significantly impact your options.  
• Documentation management: Maintain comprehensive records of your residence history, employment contracts, tax documents, language certificates and integration activities.  
• Language investment: The coalition agreement reaffirms the centrality of language proficiency across all immigration pathways. Investing in German language skills, particularly reaching B1 or C1 levels, opens the door to residence security, professional advancement and social integration. Consider specialised language courses relevant to your professional field for maximum benefit.
• Expert legal guidance: Given the complexity of these potential changes and their implications, consulting with specialised immigration lawyers is highly recommended. 

Keep on top of the situation

The policies outlined in the coalition agreement between the German government parties, the CDU/CSU and the SPD, represent both challenges and opportunities for the international professional community in Germany.

By taking informed, strategic action now, you can position yourself advantageously regardless of how these proposals ultimately take shape in legislation.