Author: RACHAEL ADEEGBE

In Greiz, Germany, the small town in the eastern region has introduced a controversial prepaid cards debit system for allocating benefits to asylum seekers instead of cash, aiming to prevent them from sending money abroad or falling victim to human traffickers. Under the new scheme, asylum seekers receive the bulk of their €496 monthly benefits via prepaid cards, specifically a prepaid Mastercard that can only be used at stores within Greiz. About €100 is paid out in cash for additional expenses. Over 200 of Greiz’s 730 asylum seekers have transitioned, with more to follow. Proponents like local administrator Martina Schweinsburg…

With its strong economy and wealth of opportunities across sectors like engineering, IT, healthcare and renewable energy, Germany is an attractive destination for international job seekers. However, succeeding in the German job market requires an understanding of the local norms and expectations around finding and landing roles. This comprehensive article provides crucial tips and advice for international workers seeking to launch their careers in Europe’s largest economy. Where to Find Open Positions Visa Considerations for Non-EU Citizens Perfecting Your German CV Preparing for Job Interviews Onboarding Tasks Once Hired With preparation and persistence, you can overcome the nuances of the…

In Bremen, Germany, a Nigerian couple has been ordered by a German court to repay €33,000 in welfare benefits to the Bremen job center after it was discovered they had been living abroad for years while fraudulently collecting payments. According to the Lower Saxony-Bremen Social Court ruling, recipients of state welfare benefits must be able to prove their whereabouts to authorities if doubts arise. The burden of proof falls on the recipients, not the job center distributing the aid. The Nigerian pair had been registered in Bremen and had collected basic welfare benefits from the job center since 2014. However,…

The German city of Hamburg, has taken the lead as the first state to start issuing prepaid Visa cards loaded with welfare benefits to asylum seekers, known as prepaid benefit cards. This initiative is part of a nationwide effort to overhaul and streamline refugee payment systems. The “SocialCard” pilot program was launched on Thursday by Hamburg’s social welfare authority. Newly arrived refugees over the age of 18 who qualify for benefits will now receive a reloadable Visa card. It will be preloaded each month with €185 ($199) for individual adults and an extra €10 per child. The prepaid benefit cards…

Germany is facing a growing problem of school dropout rates and lack of skilled workers, according to new statistics. The country currently has over 1.7 million job vacancies, with massive demand in sectors like healthcare, construction, IT and education. However, over half of the 4.8 million unemployed lack vocational qualifications and 25% do not have a high school diploma. International organizations like the OECD have long criticized Germany for high school dropout rates. In 2022, 12.2% of 18-24 year olds in the EU did not complete school or training, with Germany ranking fourth worst out of 27 countries. The problem…

The German Permanent Residence Permit allows non-EU citizens to live and work long-term in Germany without the hassle of periodic visa renewals. This comprehensive guide provides detailed insights into every aspect of obtaining this permit, ensuring you are well-prepared for the journey ahead. Types of Residence Permits Germany offers various residence titles depending on your individual situation: Requirements for Permanent Residency in Germany You must demonstrate: Step-by-Step Application Process Total standard fees are €135. €200 for self-employed applicants. Dependent children under 18 add €51 each. Benefits of Permanent Residency in Germany In conclusion, while distinct from citizenship, obtaining permanent residency…

Amid a shifting landscape of global migration flows, Germany has solidified its reputation as a preeminent destination for immigrants seeking enhanced socioeconomic opportunities. With an aging native-born population and increasing labor market demands in various high-skill sectors, the country has implemented pivotal policy changes to strategically attract and integrate foreign-born workers into its workforce.Most notably, Germany passed a new skilled immigration law in early 2020 to facilitate and expedite the international recruitment processes across many occupational areas. Some key features of the legislation included:EU Blue Card ChangesRelaxed German language prerequisites for certain academic professionals and technical specialists applying for EU…

In the intricate tapestry of Germany’s economic landscape, a critical thread threatens to unravel the fabric of growth and prosperity: a shortage of skilled workers. This pressing issue, exacerbated by the aftershocks of the coronavirus pandemic. It also cast a shadow over the nation’s industrial prowess and economic resilience. Recent reports from institutions like KfW and the German Economic Institute (IW) highlight Germany’s severe shortage of skilled workers. The KfW’s Skilled Workers Barometer shows that 44% of companies face growth obstacles due to a lack of skilled personnel, doubling from the previous year. The IW and the Competence Centre for…

Amidst the evolving landscape of European immigration policies, Germany’s EU Blue Card stands out as a vital tool for highly skilled non-EU nationals seeking employment opportunities. Originally introduced in 2012 under EU Directive 2009/50/EC to address labor shortages, the EU Blue Card serves as a facilitator for academic and professional experts looking to immigrate. Eligibility Criteria To qualify for the EU Blue Card, applicants must hold a recognized university degree and meet minimum salary thresholds linked to Germany’s annual pension insurance limit. As of 2023, regular occupations require approximately €43,800, while shortage fields have a lower threshold of around €39,682.…

Germany halts its proposal to eliminate the term ‘race’ from the country’s constitution, as reported by the Rheinische Post newspaper. This decision follows concerns raised by Josef Schuster, the leader of the Central Council of Jews in Germany. He argued against removing the term ‘race,’ citing its significance as a reminder of the persecution and genocide of millions, particularly Jews, during the Nazi era. Germany halts its Basic Law, established in 1949 as a safeguard against dictatorships like the Nazi regime. It includes a provision in paragraph three stating that individuals cannot be discriminated against based on various factors, including…