The government of the federal state of Baden-Württemberg has agreed to set up a state agency for the immigration of skilled workers (LZF), which will also take on coordination and counselling tasks. As part of this reform, there will also be a central immigration authority for foreign skilled workers, replacing the 137 local immigration authorities in the procedures for the entry of skilled workers.

The LFZ would then be responsible for all professions in future, with the exception of the health and care sector. This is because the number of applications is by far the highest in this area. The Stuttgart Regional Council, which is already responsible for professional recognition for nursing staff, among others, will coordinate and advise on all nursing, therapy and medical professions and, last but not least, continue to recognise professional qualifications. Employers hope that these changes will be implemented quickly. According to the IHK Skilled Labour Monitor, there will be a shortage of 910,000 skilled workers across all sectors in Baden-Württemberg by 2035.