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Germany's new immigration policies present unique opportunity for Indians

As Germany grapples with an economic slowdown and political uncertainties, German Ambassador to India, Philipp Ackermann, sees a silver lining—an increasing focus on attracting skilled professionals from India. In a candid conversation at a TOI editors' roundtable, Ackermann highlighted how Germany's changing immigration laws present a unique opportunity for Indian workers, especially in sectors facing labor shortages.

"Germany is in urgent need of skilled labor," Ackermann said, emphasizing the urgency of filling positions in industries ranging from engineering to digital solutions. "We have changed our laws and I'd say Germany arguably has the most liberal immigration laws now. And that is a big difference between Germany and most other Western countries, including the US. We have one big disadvantage: language," he said.

Germany's shift towards more welcoming immigration policies comes as the country seeks to overcome its labor market challenges. Ackermann shared that India is expected to be a key partner in addressing this gap. Currently, around 260,000 Indians live in Germany, and that number is poised to rise significantly in the coming years. "We have good cooperation not just with the central government but also state governments," he explained, signaling a promising future for Indian migrants.

Despite language barriers, Germany remains an attractive destination for skilled professionals. Ackermann highlighted that many immigrants from India are already making their mark in Germany's vibrant business landscape, which includes over 2,000 German companies operating in India. As the German government looks to reduce reliance on China, it sees India as a crucial economic partner.