Germany is facing a shortage of workers and its cabinet is expected to agree on a new immigration law this week to address the issue. The new regulations will make it easier for skilled workers outside the European Union to come and work in Europe's largest economy. But some argue it's not expected to do much for the over 1-million people who have already come to Germany over the past two years as asylum seekers. Ira Spitzer has more from Berlin.

Originally from Afghanistan, Matiullah is now in training to work at this Berlin restaurant.

Like many other asylum seekers, the 27-year-old arrived in Germany in twenty fifteen. This internship is his first job opportunity in the country.

MATIULLAH H ASYLUM SEEKER "I was really interested in this job and that's why I chose it. Now I'm working and happy with my choice to train in the hospitality industry."

His initial asylum application was rejected but he's allowed to stay while he appeals the decision. He's not alone. Over half of asylum claims are unsuccessful, leaving hundreds of thousands of people in similar situations across Germany. Many live in fear of being suddenly told they need to leave the country.

IRA SPITZER BERLIN "This week Germany's cabinet is expected to agree on a major overhaul of its immigration law. With more than a million unfilled jobs in the country, the law is intended to make it easier for employers to bring in skilled workers from outside the European Union."

A draft of the proposed new law does provide opportunities for failed asylum seekers to stay and work under certain conditions. But many experts say the requirements to transition to legal immigration are so hard to meet that few people will be able to take advantage of them. That uncertainty makes it difficult for both employers and workers.

MATTHIAS LEHNERT IMMIGRATION ATTORNEY "The fact is that there're many asylum seekers in Germany, and whether they're granted asylum or not, many of them bring certain skills with them or would offer the possibility of contributing to the economy."

Refugees are a divisive political issue in Germany. In May, the finance ministry said the country expected to spend more than 80 billion dollars on migration-related issues over the next four years, much of that on social benefits. Matiullah says he's ready to continue training to become a skilled worker and start paying into the system. But while the new law may help to bring more people to the country, it might not do much for those who are already here. Ira Spitzer, CGTN, Berlin.