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Germany's Western Balkans Regulation
If you are a citizen of a Western Balkan country, Germany has a special route. You can take almost any job with a contract or offer, without recognition of your qualifications.
Ask us on WhatsAppUpdated 6 November 2026. Figures checked on 6 November 2026. Rules change, so confirm them with the official source.
At a glance
| Who | Citizens of Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Montenegro and Serbia |
|---|---|
| Law | §26(2) BeschV |
| Jobs | Any type of employment, with Federal Employment Agency approval |
| You need | An employment contract or binding job offer |
| Recognition | Not needed, unless the job is regulated, such as medicine |
| Limit | A yearly quota applies, and changes are being debated |
How it differs from the skilled worker route
The skilled worker route needs a recognised or comparable qualification. The Western Balkans route does not. However, you cannot use the fast-track procedure for skilled workers on this route.
What to check
- Citizenship counts, not where you live.
- Check the current quota with the Federal Employment Agency, because employers and the government are debating changes.
- Check the job is not regulated.
Not from these countries? See the §15d short-term route.
Questions
Who can use the Western Balkans Regulation?
Citizens of Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Montenegro and Serbia.
Do I need my qualification recognised?
No, unless the job is a regulated profession such as medicine.
Can I use the fast-track procedure?
No, not on this route.
Official sources
More guides
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