The `greener' card

Sir, - The German `green card' cannot be compared with the U.S. green card. The Germans want highly trained IT specialists who will contribute to the German economy, fill the empty coffers of the compulsory German pension scheme and pay high income tax. Let's also not forget the mandatory health insurance. But, they do not pay for the training of these IT people. Those planning to go to Germany should have a very close look at their contracts and learn in detail the legal aspects of their future jobs. They should ask questions like, can I take my children to Germany? How much money will be left over after paying all the tax and insurances? In which part of Germany do I have to work? How much will I have to pay towards the so- called `Solidarity-Surcharge'? (which was created to contribute towards the development of former East Germany).

Dr. Paras Deo,

Erlangen, Germany

Send this article to Friends by E-Mail

Section  : Opinion
Previous : Ban on smoking
Next     : Judges and pension