Anyone applying for an electronic residence permit (eAT) in Germany knows the procedure: After approval comes the wait for the letter from the Federal Printing Office – and then usually the frustrating wait for an available appointment at the immigration office . Few people realize that this second trip to the authorities is often not legally required. German law actually provides a much more citizen-friendly option, which is consistently ignored in practice. The theory: The legislator...

Saxony-Anhalt is at a crucial juncture in its development. Demographic change, a persistent shortage of skilled workers , and the growing emigration of young people are putting increasing pressure on the state . At the same time, Saxony-Anhalt has been experiencing a significant increase in immigration for years – initially due to the refugee movements of 2015/16 and later due to people fleeing the war in Ukraine . While the state urgently needs new workers and skilled professionals ...

For many skilled foreign workers in Germany, the prospect of an open work visa is particularly attractive. This visa allows them to pursue any employment without restrictions – regardless of qualifications or employer – and eliminates the often complicated procedures for obtaining a work permit (see Section 9 of the Employment Ordinance ). From a legal perspective, the open work visa therefore not only offers flexibility in professional life but can also constitute a valid reason for...