Germany to halve Western Balkans quota and consider longer shifts; effects for North Macedonian workers

Germany is preparing a package of labour and integration rule changes that could affect thousands of North Macedonian citizens who live and work there now and those planning to move for work. The draft measures include a halving of the annual Western Balkans quota, proposals to allow shifts of up to 12 hours in some workplaces, and tougher requirements for certain language exams.

Quota cut, working time and tests — what would change

The most consequential proposal would reduce the joint annual quota for the Western Balkans from 50,000 to 25,000 approved permits, with the new limit scheduled to take effect in January 2027. That quota covers North Macedonia, Serbia, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro and Kosovo as a group rather than being allocated to each country separately.

If adopted, the lower quota would likely increase competition for the available permits and could make access to the German labour market harder for candidates from the region, particularly in sectors that have historically relied on foreign labour such as hospitality, construction, manufacturing and transport.

Separately, German authorities are examining changes to how working time is calculated. One idea under discussion would replace the current daily limit with a more flexible weekly accounting system, allowing employers in some cases to schedule longer shifts — potentially up to 12 hours — on particular days so long as statutory rest and worker-protection conditions are met.

Labour market institutions in Germany have already reacted. The Federal Employment Agency has voiced opposition to reducing the quota, warning that cutting admissions could deepen existing labour shortages in many German companies. Demographic trends — an ageing population and the retirement of experienced workers — mean foreign labour remains important for sustaining activity in several sectors.

Not all proposals are ready; some remain under political discussion while others are being implemented. New rules for certain German language tests tied to integration courses are already approved and are due to come into force on 1 November 2026. These changes apply to the exam taken after completion of integration courses and not to every language test used for employment, study or residence procedures.

Importantly, the announced measures would not automatically strip current residents of their permits. Obligations depend on the type of residence permit, the reason for the stay and the specific legal requirements in each case. Still, the possibility of a trimmed quota from January 2027 is the main uncertainty for North Macedonians planning to move to Germany, and prospective migrants should follow official German decisions and verify the conditions that apply to their individual cases.

Photo: press material from the event