Germany Opportunity Card

The Opportunity Card ("Chancenkarte") permits candidates from non-EU nations to enter Germany in pursuit of suitable employment. There is no obligation for them to present proof of a permanent employment contract. This card is issued to individuals acknowledged as skilled workers or those who attain at least six points based on the points system. Additionally, it is essential to guarantee that their means of support are assured for the complete duration of their stay.

Utilizing the Opportunity Card in Germany

The Opportunity Card streamlines the job search process for individuals in Germany. It enables applicants to work in Germany without the need for a lengthy recognition procedure. The prerequisites include at least two years of vocational training or a university degree, as well as sufficient proficiency in German (A1) or English (B2).

Holders of the Opportunity Card are allowed to engage in a two-week trial job or a part-time role (up to 20 hours per week). Those possessing the Opportunity Card can live in Germany for one year, during which the main goal should be to secure employment. It is feasible to extend the stay with the Opportunity Card for an additional two years, which must be applied for at the local Foreigners’ Registration Office.

Prerequisites for the Opportunity Card

In order to be eligible for the Opportunity Card, you may leverage the points system to match the required selection criteria with your individual qualifications. It is crucial to accumulate a total of six points to secure the Opportunity Card. The primary requirements consist of proficiency in the German language at level A1 or in the English language at level B2, in addition to having at least two years of vocational training or a university degree recognized in your country of origin. Furthermore, you are required to exhibit financial stability, which can be demonstrated through a part-time job (not exceeding 20 hours per week). This can be validated by providing an employment contract. (Please be aware that no points are awarded for the basic requirements!) Additional criteria within the points system include language proficiency, professional experience, age, and a “connection to Germany.” The age criterion refers to your age at the time of application.

Overview of Points Distribution for the Opportunity Card

• Basic prerequisites include adequate proficiency in the German language at level A1 or in the English language at level B2, along with a minimum of two years of vocational training in accordance with the regulations of the country of origin. Additionally, you must demonstrate sufficient financial resources. This can be evidenced by an employment contract for a part-time position (up to 20 hours per week), for instance.
• Four points are granted for the partial recognition of a foreign professional qualification or for authorization to practice a regulated profession (such as teacher, nurse, or engineer). Very few candidates fulfill these requirements.
• Three points are awarded for five years of professional experience (within the last seven years) in the relevant profession, along with two years of prior professional training as per the regulations of the country of origin. Alternatively, three points can be obtained for possessing good German language skills at level B2.
• Two points are given for two years of professional experience following vocational training (within the last five years). If you are under 35 years of age, you will also receive two points. Additionally, German language skills at level B1 are eligible for two points.
• One point is allocated to applicants who are not older than 40 years and for a previous residence in Germany (for a minimum of six months). Documented proof of this is required. Previous visits as a tourist do not qualify.
• Furthermore, one point is awarded for possessing very good English proficiency (C1), reasonable German knowledge (A2), if your vocational training or university degree is in a field experiencing an official labor shortage in Germany, or if you apply for the Opportunity Card alongside your spouse.

Benefits of Opportunity Card

The Opportunity Card simplifies the process of securing a job in Germany. The points-based system enables entry without the necessity of a fixed employment contract. The primary requirement includes (at minimum) two years of vocational training or a university degree recognized in your home country, along with proficiency in German (A1) or English (B2).

To obtain the Opportunity Card, you must demonstrate adequate financial resources. This can be achieved through a part-time job (limited to 20 hours per week). You can establish your financial stability, for instance, by presenting an employment contract that you finalize prior to applying for the Opportunity Card. If you are in search of such a part-time position, please subscribe to our newsletter.

The benefits of the Opportunity Card summarized:

• A new and simplified method for entering Germany
• Possibility of a 12-month stay in Germany, with the potential for a permanent residence permit
• Opportunity to earn over 1000 euros monthly
• Work authorization for employment up to 20 hours weekly
• Possibility to secure a qualified part-time or full-time job

Do I need to obtain a permanent job if I want to apply for Germany Opportunity card?

In Germany, an employment contract is not a prerequisite for applying for the Opportunity Card. However, it is essential to possess adequate language proficiency (German A1 or English B2) and have completed at least two years of vocational training or hold a university degree in accordance with the regulations of your home country. Additionally, you must demonstrate sufficient financial resources. This can be evidenced through an employment contract for a part-time position (up to 20 hours per week), for instance. If you are interested in such a part-time role, please subscribe to our newsletter.

Upon obtaining the Opportunity Card, you will be granted a residence permit valid for 12 months. During this period, you are permitted to search for an appropriate job or have your professional qualifications recognized retroactively. You are allowed to work on a trial basis for two weeks (an unlimited number of times) as well as engage in part-time employment of up to 20 hours per week, with flexible distribution of hours.

Can I Study in Germany with the opportunity card?

The Opportunity Card permits you to engage in employment in Germany; however, it does not allow for enrollment in academic studies. Should you wish to pursue education in Germany, it is necessary to submit an application and gain acceptance into a degree program. Specific requirements and procedures are in place for this process, which can differ from one university to another. Additionally, you may be required to demonstrate adequate proficiency in the German language or undertake a language assessment. If you have previously completed vocational training or obtained a degree in your home country, certain components of your training or studies may be eligible for credit towards a degree program in Germany.