Ask HN: What's your experience getting a German work visa?

A few years ago, I signed a contract withA a German company and proceeded to request a work visa. The visa was denied on the grounds that I did not have a college degree at the time. My salary was going to be >55k and I was told that, as a programmer, I wouldn't need a degree and would be fast tracked.

Fast forward a few years, I got my degree and accepted another job with a >65k salary. Again, I requested the work visa. Again, it was rejected. This time on the grounds that I didn't submit proof that I was at B1 level in... English. Yes, that's right. English. I don't know if I have the energy to appeal this nonsense.

What's been your experience getting a work visa for Germany?