Germany

What changed

Effective 20 September 2026, the German Embassy in Dushanbe is mandating online visa applications via its Foreign Portal for residents of Tajikistan applying for specific national visa categories, including study, training, Opportunity Card, and skilled worker visas. This change discontinues the traditional appointment waiting list system for these categories, streamlining the initial application process for affected individuals.

What changed

Germany's Federal Government will tighten immigration controls for Russian nationals, effective from 18 September 2026. This decision follows a hybrid attack in Leipzig attributed to the Russian Federation and is part of a series of measures to counter destabilisation, disinformation, and aggressive behaviour towards Europe. The aim is to bolster Germany's security and deter further hostile actions.

What changed

The Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) has launched a new dual degree programme. It is called "Administrative Informatics" (VIT). BAMF offers this programme with the Federal University of Applied Administrative Sciences. This programme will help the federal administration get the IT specialists it needs. It is a three-year programme. It combines university study with practical work at BAMF. Successful applicants will become civil servants. They can start in March or September 2027.

What changed

Germany has introduced a new law to make its migration management digital. The German Parliament approved this law on 9 July 2026. This change lets authorities use biometric data again for future applications. It also improves how authorities share information using the Central Register of Foreigners (Ausländerzentralregister). These changes aim to make administrative processes faster for people. They also aim to reduce the work for immigration authorities.

What changed

Germany has updated its official Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) guidance. The Opportunity Card remains available through two routes: Recognised skilled worker route: applicants with a German qualification or a foreign qualification fully recognised in Germany do not need to use the points system. Points route: applicants with a foreign qualification that is not fully recognised must meet the qualification and language requirements and score at least 6 points. For the points route, German language skills above A1 now directly add points: A2 German: 1 point B1 German: 2 points B2 or higher German: 3 points English C1 or higher, or native English: 1 additional point The maximum available for language is therefore 4 points. The guidance also clarifies what Opportunity Card holders can do after entering Germany: the card is primarily for job searching or qualification measures. Holders can work up to 20 hours per week while searching. Once they find suitable qualified employment or another qualifying pathway, they must normally switch to the appropriate residence permit.

What changed

From 1 July 2026, Germany has significantly expanded its 'Wegweiserkurse' programme. These important orientation courses are now available in 13 federal states, up from the first four. This move aims to reach more people who need protection, ensuring they get vital information and cultural guidance soon after they arrive in Germany. The Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (Bundesamt für Migration und Flüchtlinge – BAMF) is expanding this programme to better support newly arrived people.