Would you like to visit Germany in order to look for a career that suits you? Do you possess a university degree or at least two years of professional or vocational training in a particular field? If so, you have a fantastic opportunity right now.
Germany launched the Chancenkarte (Opportunity Card) in an effort to draw in foreign skilled laborers. Those who meet the requirements can use this visa to look for work in Germany. Read the information below if you would want to apply for a Germany Opportunity Card and are from a nation outside of the EU or EEA. Important information regarding the Opportunity Card and how to apply is available.
What is the Opportunity Card for Job Search?
Aiming to make it easier for qualified individuals to obtain jobs in Germany, the new qualified Immigration Act in Germany includes the Job Search Opportunity Card. It is aimed at professionals with credentials in fields that are in high demand, like engineering, IT, healthcare, and more.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Germany Job Search Opportunity Card, applicants from countries outside EU/EEU must meet specific criteria:
Qualifications: A recognized university degree or equivalent qualification in a high-demand field.
Work Experience: Relevant work experience in the chosen field.
Language Proficiency: Basic proficiency in German or English.
Financial Stability: Proof of sufficient funds to support yourself during the job search period.
You have two options:
Option 1: Your professional/academic qualification (obtained abroad) is fully recognized in Germany. or you obtained your university degree or professional qualification in Germany.
If you earned your university degree or professional qualification in Germany, you can apply immediately for a residence permit for jobseekers under Section 20 of the Residence Act (AufenthG). This permit extends your job search period to 18 months and allows you to work part-time without restrictions during this time.
Option 2 :
To qualify, you need to score at least six points in the points system and meet the following criteria:
Training: Successfully completed vocational or academic training recognized by the issuing country.
Vocational Training: Must have included at least two years of training.
Qualification Validation: Obtain a positive result for this qualification from the Central Office for Foreign Education (ZAB), which can be applied for online.
Language proficiency:
German language skills of at least level A1 according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
English language skills of at least level B2 (CEFR)
Living Expense coverage: For both Option 1 and Option 2, you must prove sufficient financial resources to support your job search in Germany.
This can be done by:
Blocked Bank Account: A minimum balance of €1,027 net per month (as of 2024).
Declaration of Commitment (Verpflichtungserklärung): A formal guarantee from a person in Germany to support you financially during your stay. This declaration can be submitted to a Foreigners Authority in Germany, and in some cities like Offenbach am Main and Wiesbaden, it can be done online.
Opportunities The Opportunity Card Offers
For a maximum of one year, the Opportunity Card enables you to look for work or launch a business in Germany. You are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week during this time, and you are also permitted to take part in job trials for up to two weeks with each business. Securing qualified jobs, apprenticeships, or certification programs may be aided by these trials.
Tips for Preparation:
Commence early: Make sure your applications adhere to German requirements.
Ask for help: Make use of resources to help in your job search.
You can apply for a residence visa for qualified work, vocational training, or self-employment once you’ve found a job or apprenticeship. Your Opportunity Card may be renewed for an additional year if you meet the requirements.
How Do Opportunity Cards’ Points System Function?
If you are unable to provide proof of a fully recognized German or international qualification, the points system will be applied. You still need to demonstrate your formal training and linguistic proficiency. Points are given according to the following standards:
Qualification Equivalency: Four points if your paper is partially accepted in Germany.
Occupation in Shortage: 1 point if the field in which you are qualified is in great demand.
Professional Experience: 2 points for the past two years out of the last five; 3 points for the last five years out of the last seven.
Language Proficiency: 1 point for A2 German, 2 for B1, 3 for B2 or above; 1 extra point for natural fluency in English or C1 English.
Age: 1 point for those over 40, 2 points for those under 35.
Earlier Stays in Germany: 1 point for the previous five years of six months or longer.
Spouse’s Requirements: If your spouse is also eligible for an opportunity card, you will receive one point.
This mechanism guarantees that candidates fulfill the requirements for the Opportunity Card visa.
In summary
A great program for qualified professionals looking to work in Germany is the Opportunity Card. All of the job opportunities in Germany are yours to grab if you meet the eligibility requirements and complete the application process.
Benefits of the Opportunity Card
Job Search: The visa allows you to stay in Germany for up to 12 months to search for a job.
Access to Opportunities: Germany’s robust job market offers numerous opportunities in various sectors.
Pathway to Permanent Residency: Successful employment can lead to permanent residency in Germany.
Procedure for Applications
You should take the actions listed below to apply for an Opportunity card.
Verify your eligibility and program details to make sure you satisfy the requirements.
Get Documents Ready: assemble the required documentation, such as certifications of training, employment history, linguistic competence, and financial stability.
You can apply HERE if you haven’t already to get your qualifications recognized.
Online Request Form: Fill out the online application form found on the official Digital Diplo Portal for Germany.
Send in your application: Send in your application and the necessary paperwork.
Wait for a Decision The judgment will be sent to the applicants through email, and processing times vary.
Note: Applications from applicants in Afghanistan and other nations cannot be submitted online at this time. Local applications for visas are accepted at the German embassy.
