On 4 July the specialist portal GermanOnlineTests published an in-depth guide to Germany’s updated Section 19c IT visa, highlighting that applicants no longer need a university degree or pre-arrival German skills if they can prove two years of professional experience and a job offer worth at least €45,630. The article collates the latest Federal Interior Ministry FAQs and the ‘Make it in Germany’ employer checklist released this week. The 19c pathway, created under the 2020 Skilled Immigration Act and expanded this year, is attracting interest from tech companies struggling with unfilled roles in AI, cyber-security and cloud engineering. Recruiters say the removal of the B1-German requirement halves hiring lead time because candidates can start language training after arrival. Embassies in India, Brazil and Egypt have already opened 19c appointment slots separate from Blue-Card interviews. Processing targets mirror the new 30-day rule for other skilled-worker categories, though capacity varies by post. Successful applicants receive a four-year residence permit with a route to permanent settlement after 21 months if they reach B1 language level. For HR teams, the key action is to draft offer letters that meet the salary threshold and include detailed job descriptions referencing EU skills classifications. Companies must also register vacancies with the Federal Employment Agency’s fast-track desk to secure labour-market clearance before filing visa dossiers.
Source: GermanOnlineTests
