Germany Overhauls Immigration Law to Attract Skilled Workers

Germany has passed a new law to attract skilled migrant workers from outside the European Union, with a Canada-style points-based system that takes into account age, skills, qualifications and any link to Germany. The law will lower criteria for salary, educational level and German language ability, making it easier for migrants to come to Germany with or without a job offer. The move comes as German business leaders warn of a labour shortage, exacerbated by an ageing population, and describe it as the biggest risk facing the German economy. However, the law has faced fierce debate in parliament, with conservatives and the far-right AfD opposing it.