New immigration rules were tailored specifically for non-academic, but skilled workers from outside the European Union, making it easier for them to get their foreign qualifications recognized by German authorities, the conservative-led government of Chancellor Angela Merkel said Wednesday.

The rule changes would come into effect in July and are aimed to plug shortfalls in, for example, the number of train drivers, plumbers and electricians, the government said.

More than 40 percent of existing labor immigration rules were jettisoned, Labor Minister Ursula von der Leyen said in a statement, which would leave the door wide open for skilled laborers from abroad to help the country progress.

Under an existing "blue card" scheme, Germany already facilitated hiring of foreign academics. However, free movement of labor within the European Union has failed to resolve Germany's twin problem of a booming economy with low unemployment, and an ageing population.

Employers rejoice

Welcoming the new rules, the German Employers' Federation (BDA) said targeted immigration of badly-needed skilled workers was needed to overcome growing shortages.

The lobby group also praised an apparent change of mentality in German politics which would help make foreign workers feel more welcome in Germany.

However, a senior member of Germany's opposition Social Democratic Party (SPD) warned that Germans, who were also lacking sufficient qualifications, mustn't suffer from the foreign recruitment drive.

The bill, facilitating labor immigration, needs the approval of Germany's upper house of parliament, the Bundesrat, where the SPD has a majority.

uhe/dr (dpa, Reuters)