Brandenburg minister urges end to German-Polish border controls by summer 2026
Germany prolongs land-border checks with France until at least 15 September 2026
Frankfurt U-Bahn and tram network paralysed by Verdi one-day strike
Latest News
Warning strike closes lanes in A71 mountain tunnels, slowing central-Germany road traffic
A Verdi warning strike at the A71 tunnel control centre caused lane closures on 19 February, highlighting the vulnerability of key road arteries to wage disputes at Autobahn GmbH. Further stoppages could disrupt business travel and freight later this month.
Five Years On, Germany’s Skilled-Worker Immigration Act Doubles Employment-Based Residence
A Bundesagentur für Arbeit report released on 18 February 2026 shows that employment-based residence permits in Germany have more than doubled since the Skilled-Worker Immigration Act took effect in 2020. Lower Blue-Card salary thresholds, a higher Western Balkans quota and expanded digital counselling drove the growth. The data confirm that Germany’s labour market is opening faster than at any time in the past decade, offering companies wider access to international talent.
Verdi Walk-Out Paralyzes Frankfurt’s U-Bahn and Trams for a Day
A one-day Verdi strike on 18 February shut down all metro and tram services in Frankfurt, forcing business travellers and commuters to rely on limited buses and S-Bahn trains amid wintry conditions. Further industrial action is possible as wage talks continue, underscoring the need for contingency travel planning.
Major Rail Diversions Announced for Hamburg Corridor from 27 February to 30 March
From 27 February to 30 March 2026 Deutsche Bahn will close Hamburg’s central Verbindungsbahn for bridge replacements, forcing long-distance trains to stop short in Harburg or Pinneberg and cutting frequencies on key business routes. The month-long diversion will lengthen journeys and requires proactive itinerary management for travellers and logistics providers.