Germany Sees 43% Surge in Study Visas Over Past Four Years
Germany Sees Rise in Work and Study Visas, While Asylum Approvals Decline
Germany is continuing to position itself as a key destination for international students and skilled workers, as the number of visas granted for study and employment purposes has surged significantly over the past four years. According to data shared by German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser, the country has made notable strides in strengthening legal immigration, cracking down on human smuggling, and reducing irregular migration.
Study and Work Visas Climb Sharply Between 2021 and 2024
The data reveals a 43% increase in study visas issued by Germany between 2021 and 2024, reflecting the country's growing appeal to international students seeking quality education and career prospects in Europe. Work visas have also seen a remarkable 77.3% jump, rising from 97,000 in 2021 to 172,000 in 2024, indicating Germany’s active recruitment of foreign professionals to address labour shortages.
Sharp Decline in Asylum Approvals
While Germany has opened more pathways for legal migration, asylum approvals have declined. A 34.2% year-on-year drop was recorded in asylum application approvals, with the first quarter of 2025 registering only 33,157 applications, down 37% compared to the same period in 2024. Moreover, first-time asylum applications plummeted by 43% in the first two months of 2025 compared to the previous year.
Germany Reinforces Its Image as a Country of Immigration
Interior Minister Faeser reaffirmed that Germany remains a country of immigration, especially in light of ongoing political discourse during the recent elections in February 2025, where some candidates took strong stances against migration. Faeser emphasized that well-regulated migration is essential to Germany's economic and social development.
New Policies to Boost Legal Immigration
Germany has recently introduced a series of reforms aimed at making the immigration process more accessible and transparent:
- Integration courses have been expanded to include individuals still undergoing the asylum process.
- Early language training and counselling are being provided for refugees from Ukraine to help them integrate faster.
- The Skilled Immigration Act has been revised to prioritize professional experience over formal qualifications.
- Changes to citizenship laws now simplify the naturalization process for long-term residents. However, individuals with anti-democratic ideologies may be disqualified from becoming citizens.
About AtoZ Serwis
AtoZ Serwis Plus, founded in 2009 and based in Poland, is a leading B2C and B2B immigration and recruitment agency. Operating across 5+ European countries, we offer expert services to individuals, employers, and recruitment partners worldwide.
For Employers
We help companies hire international talent from CIS, Asia, Africa, and Europe.
Register Here
For Job Seekers
Explore European job opportunities and apply through our Work Visa Services.
Note: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Become Our Partner
Join as a recruitment/immigration agency and get access to job markets and visa support.
Partner Registration
Important Notice
AtoZ Serwis Plus has over 14 years of experience helping job seekers and employers across Europe. While we assist with recruitment and immigration procedures, clients should always consult legal and tax advisors when necessary. AtoZ Serwis Plus does not provide legal or tax advice directly.
Disclaimer: AtoZSerwisPlus.de is a FREE visa database and marketplace for immigration experts. The content provided does not constitute legal advice. Always consult a professional before making decisions.
