Germany Unveils 'Work and Stay Agency' to Streamline Skilled Worker Immigration
German leaders have unveiled a comprehensive 'Modernisation agenda for government and administration' to streamline services and reduce bureaucracy. A key initiative is the 'Work and Stay Agency', a digital platform set to simplify skilled worker recruitment by 2026.
The Work and Stay Agency, a centralised digital hub, will serve as a one-stop shop for foreign professionals seeking to work and settle in Germany. It will coordinate job offers, visa issuance, integration support, and onboarding, making the process more efficient and user-friendly. The platform is expected to launch progressively throughout 2026, with development involving the Federal Employment Agency.
Visa application procedures are also set for improvement. Online applications and AI-assisted document checks are planned for further automation. Pilot AI tools are currently in development, with gradual integration scheduled through 2027. This follows the broader agenda's call for increased use of artificial intelligence in administration and modern personnel systems across federal agencies.
The 'Modernisation agenda for government and administration' aims to touch every citizen's life, including new arrivals and foreign residents. With 80 concrete measures planned, initial projects focus on smoothing everyday dealings with the state. The Work and Stay Agency is poised to significantly enhance Germany's skilled labour immigration process, making it more accessible, efficient, and welcoming.
