The German Federal Council (Bundesrat) approved the implementation of the EU Directive on Students and Researchers, which will introduce new regulations regarding students, trainees and scientists. The new regulations will provide more lenient rules for foreign nationals seeking to continue their studies, gain work experience through training programs or perform research and development activities in Germany. The new law is expected to become effective in July or August.

Background

The EU Directive on Students and Researchers aims to promote the European Union as an attractive location for research and innovation and to increase its overall competitiveness while creating jobs.

Student Mobility

The new law will make it easier for students and researchers to move within the European Union during their authorized stay.

Students holding a Student Permit issued by another EU Member State will be able to spend up to 360 days of their studies in Germany.

These relaxed rules will also apply to students participating in EU or multilateral student programs.

Post-Graduate Trainees

Post-graduate trainees will be able to apply for training programs to gain knowledge, skills and work experience in their areas of expertise.

Simultaneously, employers will be able to utilize these training programs to access highly-skilled and educated foreign nationals from countries outside of the European Union.

Mobility of Scientists and Researchers

Scientists and researchers holding relevant permits from other EU Member States will be able to perform their activities in Germany for up to 180 consecutive days during a 360-day period without obtaining additional authorization in Germany.

Further regulations are expected to facilitate the process of obtaining authorization to stay in Germany for purposes of research and development.

What This Means for Foreign Nationals

The new regulations should benefit eligible foreign nationals from countries outside of the European Union seeking to continue their studies, gain work experience through training programs and perform research and development activities in Germany.

Interested applicants should consult their immigration professional about the specific requirements for students, trainees and scientists in each EU Member State, as these could vary.

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