According to official data, about 180,000 foreigners with the status of unrecognized refugees live in the country. Their rights have been the subject of a long-standing debate between the Social Democrats and the conservative CDU and CSU. After the longtime opponents formed a ruling coalition, they had to search for a compromise.
In general terms, the new bill was agreed upon at a conference of state interior ministers in November 2006. However, many open questions remained after its conclusion, which became the subject of negotiations in Berlin. The extension of the period for foreigners to find work until 2009 can be considered a victory for the Social Democrats (originally it was about 2007).
However, at the request of the conservative parties, employed persons will receive a residence permit with a limited validity period. Despite the fact that foreigners will pay taxes and social contributions in full, they should not count on full social benefits. In particular, unrecognized refugees are not entitled to 'parental allowance' paid at the birth of a child. The decision on other social benefits is left to the state governments.
Having received a residence permit, a foreigner has the right to bring their family to Germany. However, the arrival of a spouse will only be allowed upon reaching the age of 18. In this way, the government intends to combat forced marriages, which are prohibited in Germany.
The bill will be prepared and submitted to the Bundestag no later than April 2007.