Germany increases skilled worker visas for Indians to 90,000 amid PM Modi-Scholz talks

PTC Web Desk: Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on Friday that Germany will significantly increase the annual visas available for skilled Indian workers, raising the number from 20,000 to 90,000, as reported by a news agency. This announcement came during the three-day visit of German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who engaged in bilateral discussions with PM Narendra Modi focused on enhancing trade relations between the two nations, which rank as the world's fifth and third largest economies.

Chancellor Scholz highlighted that Indians currently represent the largest group of foreign students in German universities, with an increase of 23,000 Indians working in Germany over the past year. He noted, “That talent is a welcome addition to our labour market.” Additionally, he mentioned plans to improve visa processes through digitisation, expediting processing times, and implementing user-friendly measures.

However, Scholz indicated a shift in policy regarding non-skilled migration, stating that Germany aims to reduce irregular migration and ensure the return of individuals without legal rights to remain in the country. He said, “Germany is open for skilled workers, but we can decide who comes.”

Furthermore, Germany is pursuing a free trade agreement with India and the European Union, with negotiations resuming in June 2022 after an eight-year hiatus. The Chancellor underscored the significance of enhancing cooperation in defense and technology, expressing a desire to strengthen military ties between the two countries.

Modi and Scholz are set to co-chair the seventh Intergovernmental Consultations (IGC) at Hyderabad House later today.