Lower Saxony calls for Visa Restrictions on Colombian Travelers for Skill-based Immigration Boost
Visa regulations will be imposed on Colombian citizens by the German state of Lower Saxony. - Visa restrictions proposed for Colombians by Lower Saxony authorities.
Hey there! Let's chat about Lower Saxony's recent push for visa restrictions on Colombian travelers.
In a bid to alleviate the pressure on handling asylum seekers and stimulate skilled worker immigration, Lower Saxony is advocating for visa restrictions on people coming from Colombia. Interior Minister Daniela Behrens shared her thoughts with the HAZ, stating that everything possible should be done to ease the burden on the asylum system while strengthening skilled worker immigration. The current situation is reportedly frustrating for all parties involved, according to the SPD politician.
A high number of people seeking protection from Colombia is primarily attributable to the relatively easy entry via Spain. However, the recognition rate for refugees from South America is incredibly low, as stated by the Interior Minister. Of the 1,640 asylum applications received from Colombia so far this year, a mere 0.43 percent were granted.
But here's the cool part – Lower Saxony actively welcomes Colombians as skilled workers! Behrens has reportedly written a letter to Federal Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt (CSU) and Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul (CDU), requesting the reintroduction of the visa requirement. In the same vein, Germany values immigration and foreign workers, according to Behrens. "Colombians are welcome here as skilled workers," she asserted.
That's not all! Lower Saxony even proactively seeks skilled workers on-site and supports a project allowing Colombians to acquire extensive German language skills and qualify their credentials to the equivalent of a German degree.
Last year, the struggle of a care home in the Lower Saxon village of Wilstedt against the threatened deportation of Colombian caregivers made headlines. Due to rejected asylum applications, the management faced the potential closure of the facility for dementia patients.
By the way, it's important to note that the visa requirements are currently governed by the Schengen Area regulations. Colombia, being a non-visa-free country, generally requires a Schengen visa for entries into Germany for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. To obtain a Schengen visa, applicants must provide proof of purpose, sufficient funds, and health insurance, among other documents. However, any specific changes or discussions regarding visa requirements for Colombia or Lower Saxony are not currently ongoing. For the most accurate information, it's advisable to consult the official German Embassy or Consulate in Colombia or the German Federal Foreign Office website.
- In an effort to boost skilled worker immigration, Lower Saxony has proposed a policy-and-legislation change that aims to impose visa restrictions on nationals from Colombia, particularly those seeking vocational training in various industries.
- As part of its initiative to attract skilled workers from Colombia, Lower Saxony offers vocational training programs and provisions for the general-news of policy-and-legislation regarding immigration, ensuring that Colombia remains a valuable source of vocational talent for the region.
