Today, the Slovenian government will review proposed amendments to the Foreigners Act, which have already sparked strong criticism even before reaching parliament.

Key changes:

• Free Slovenian language courses for foreigners will be abolished — participants will have to cover 40% of the costs themselves, while language proficiency requirements will become stricter.

• To renew a residence permit based on family reunification, A2 proficiency will be required instead of A1, while permanent residence applicants will need B1 instead of A2.

• The waiting period before applying for family reunification will increase from 1 year to 3 years.

• The minimum income requirement for obtaining a residence permit will rise from €507.43 to €710.40 (an even higher amount of €1,014.86 was initially proposed).

Trade unions and NGOs have strongly criticized the changes, describing them as an attempt to push workers’ families out of the country and hinder the integration of foreign workers. Businesses are also concerned that Slovenia could become less attractive to international professionals.

Meanwhile, another controversial bill concerning the employment of foreigners is being prepared and has also faced criticism over concerns that it could increase worker exploitation.

Source: lokalec.si