From January 2027, the government plans to reduce relevant approvals from 50,000 to 25,000 annually
Significant changes in the labor market and migration policy are being promoted by the German government, sparking reactions and concern. Berlin is considering replacing the daily working hours cap with a more flexible weekly system, which could permit shifts of up to 12 hours. At the same time, it plans to reduce new work permits for citizens of the Western Balkans by 50%, despite severe labor shortages across key sectors of the economy.
The eight-hour day in the crosshairs: Are longer shifts coming?
The German government is considering a major overhaul of the labor framework, aiming to offer businesses greater flexibility in managing their personnel.
According to the plan, the current daily maximum work limit could be replaced by a weekly limit, permitting longer shifts during periods of heightened production activity.
Within this framework, the possibility of 12-hour employment is even being discussed, offset by shorter shifts or more rest days.
The government argues that the objective is not to increase total working hours, but to distribute them better.
However, trade unions voice fears that relaxing the eight-hour day will increase pressure on workers and complicate work-life balance.
Currently, German legislation stipulates a standard daily limit of eight hours, with the option to extend to ten, provided specific compensatory rules are met.
Fewer foreign workers while the economy searches for personnel
At the same time, Berlin is advancing a reduction in the annual work permit quota for citizens of six countries in the Western Balkans.
Starting in January 2027, the government plans to limit relevant approvals from 50,000 to 25,000 per year.
The change affects workers from Serbia, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Kosovo.
The Federal Employment Agency opposes the initiative, warning that it could exacerbate labor shortages.
According to its data, approximately 546,000 citizens from the Western Balkans are already working in Germany, with 53% employed in positions that require at least skilled worker status.
Construction, transport, logistics, the hotel sector, and elder care rank among the industries relying heavily on this workforce.
The contradiction is evident: Germany seeks greater labor flexibility while simultaneously planning to restrict a major avenue for recruiting foreign workers.
Stricter language exams for immigrants
In parallel, starting November 1, stricter rules take effect for German language examinations for immigrants.
To obtain a B1-level certificate via the Deutsch-Test für Zuwanderer examination, candidates will now be required to demonstrate a minimum level of proficiency in written sections where they could previously score lower.
This specific certification plays a vital role in integration, permanent residency, and naturalization procedures.
The German economy facing difficult choices
The planned changes reflect the pressures faced by the largest economy in Europe.
On one hand, businesses demand more flexibility and staff. On the other, the government seeks tighter control over labor migration, while workers worry about protecting their rights.
The question is whether Germany can enhance its competitiveness without shifting a greater burden onto employees and without restricting access to the personnel its economy requires.
The answer will depend on final legislative decisions and their repercussions across the real labor market.
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