The German government is moving forward with plans to establish a centralized “Work-and-Stay Agency” aimed at streamlining the immigration process for skilled workers. Labor Minister Bärbel Bas has submitted the agency’s framework for review by other ministries, according to reports in the Süddeutsche Zeitung.
The initiative seeks to expedite, digitize and centralize the intake of foreign skilled labor, addressing ongoing concerns about lengthy and complex procedures. Minister Bas stated that the agency will dismantle bureaucratic obstacles hindering access to the German labor market, creating a single point of contact for all necessary formalities.
Despite recent liberalizations of immigration law for skilled and working professionals, businesses and economic representatives have voiced criticism regarding the protracted application processes, often requiring paper-based submissions and involving multiple authorities. The new agency is intended to simplify these procedures for all stakeholders – government agencies, job seekers and employers alike.
According to the framework document from the Labor Ministry, the agency will provide a centralized digital platform allowing skilled workers to apply for residence permits, upload documentation and receive notifications. Prospective employers will be enabled to support candidates throughout the process, extending accessibility to small and medium-sized enterprises alongside larger corporations. Shorter waiting times are anticipated for all involved.
This development fulfills a commitment outlined in the governing coalition agreement and draws inspiration from the “One-Stop-Government” concept, consolidating service provision into a single, accessible point.