The Opportunity Card is a new visa for Germany that allows applicants from outside the European Union to come to Germany to search for suitable work.
What is the Opportunity Card visa in Germany?
By applying for the German Opportunity Card program for 2024, you do not need to show proof of a permanent employment contract. The Opportunity Card is issued to candidates who are recognized as skilled workers or those who score at least six points using the points system.
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Advantages of Chancenkarte Opportunity Card
The Opportunity Card removes the bureaucratic obstacles that may face those wishing to work in Germany, as it enables them to enter the country legally, quickly, and without complications.
A quick overview of the benefits of the Opportunity Card for you:
- An easier way to enter Germany for workers.
- A one-year stay in Germany is possible, with the possibility of obtaining a permanent residence permit.
- Potential income of over €1300 each month you work.
- Work permit to work up to 20 hours per week.
- Opportunity to find a qualified part-time/full-time job.
- There is no need for an approval process from the German Employment Agency as before.
- Simplified approval procedures.
- Simple contracts can be concluded without conditions and complications.
Financial security and good income
The advantages of the Opportunity Card are not only limited to facilitating entry into Germany, but also extend to providing financial security for applicants. By obtaining this card, they can work and earn a good income that guarantees them a decent and stable life in Germany.
Opportunity for permanent residence in Germany
It is also a first step towards obtaining permanent residence in Germany. If the card holder can find and maintain a suitable job, he or she can apply for permanent residency and settle in this beautiful country.
Immediate work permit after the application is approved
Once the application for the Chancenkarte opportunity card is approved, the applicant receives an immediate work permit that allows him to start his professional journey in Germany without delay. This advantage enables those with competencies and skills to exploit the opportunities available in the labor market quickly and effectively.
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Working in Germany thanks to the Opportunity Card
The Opportunity Card is a magic key that facilitates the job search process in Germany. It enables applicants to work without the need for complex procedures to obtain recognition of their qualifications.
They are only required to have at least two years of work experience or a university degree, in addition to proficiency in German at A1 level or English at B2 level.
The opportunity card also gives its holder the opportunity to try work for two weeks or work part-time (maximum 20 hours per week). The card has a validity period of one year, which is sufficient time to search for a suitable job. Under certain circumstances, the validity of the card can be extended for up to an additional two years, by submitting an application to the local Aliens Office.
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What are the terms of Chancenkarte?
Obtaining the Chance Card is based on a points system and at least six points must be achieved to obtain the card.
The basic requirements include proficiency in German at level A1 or English at level B2, in addition to practical experience of no less than two years or a university degree recognized in the country of origin.
The applicant must also prove his financial ability, for example by working part-time (maximum 20 hours per week) and submit an employment contract as proof of this.
Other criteria in the points system include language skills, professional experience, age and connection to Germany. Age is determined at the time of submitting the application.
So, dear, a summary of the conditions is as follows:
- Proficiency in German at A1 level or English at B2 level
- At least two years of practical experience in your profession outside Germany.
- The applicant must also have sufficient financial resources, and this can be proven through an employment contract for a part-time position (maximum 20 hours per week).
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Distribution of points to obtain the German Opportunity Card
4 points: Awarded for recognition of a degree obtained or for authorization to practice a regulated profession (such as teacher, nurse, or engineer).
3 points: Awarded for five years of work experience in your profession (in the last seven years) after completing a vocational training or obtaining a general training certificate or two-year diploma. 3 points are also awarded for proficiency in German at level B2.
35 points: Awarded for two years of work experience after completing training or work experience (in the last five years). If the applicant is under 1 years of age, he/she also receives XNUMX points. XNUMX points are also awarded for proficiency in German at level BXNUMX.
40 point: Granted to applicants under XNUMX years of age who have a previous residence in Germany (for at least six months), which must be documented. Previous tourist residences do not count.
1 point: Also awarded for excellent English language proficiency (C2), sufficient German language proficiency (AXNUMX), training in certain professions or if the applicant applies for the Opportunity Card together with his/her spouse.
The Opportunity Card is an important way for professionals from outside Germany to advance their career path in the country. By understanding the points system and basic requirements, applicants can assess their chances and obtain the qualifications required to succeed in their application.
If you want to apply and benefit, we advise you to use the form available via German Opportunity Card website here.
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Read the frequently asked questions about the German Opportunity Card
How do I prove that I am a specialist?
You must have recognized professional qualifications, whether a university degree or qualified apprenticeship. You do not have to be a recognized specialist to apply for the Opportunity Card.
Are there exceptions for information technology majors?
Provide proof of two years of professional experience with an employment contract, without the need for a university degree or vocational training. Your professional qualifications can later be recognized in Germany through the Recognition Partnership.
How to recognize vocational training?
You can have your degree recognized in Germany and work at the same time through a recognition partnership. The recognition procedure starts within Germany, allowing you to work from day one.
How many opportunity cards are given out annually?
There is no limit to the number of Chance Cards that can be awarded per year. However, in case of high demand, the authorities can set a certain quota.
What countries are eligible to apply?
You can apply for an Opportunity Card if you are from a non-EU country (third country).
What are the three conditions for the Opportunity Card?
At least 003 years of working experience u003cbru1eSufficient language skills (German A2 or English B003). u003cbruXNUMXeSufficient financial resources
Is it possible to reunite a family through an opportunity card?
This is only possible if you switch from an opportunity card to another residence permit. If you apply for the Opportunity Card with your spouse, children are allowed to come to Germany.
How long does the process of obtaining an opportunity card take?
It takes several weeks or months from the time the application is submitted
How do I change the opportunity card to a permanent residence permit?
These could be language skills or experience in your profession. If you find a part-time or full-time job in Germany through the Opportunity Card, this is a criterion for extending your stay in Germany. Transitioning to a residence permit for regular work is possible without complications.
Can I extend my Chance Card?
The duration of residence with the Opportunity Card in Germany is exactly one year. An extension of up to two years is possible under certain circumstances.
How much money do I need to have to get the Opportunity Card?
Providing a bank balance or proof of regular income for the so-called blocked account: €12324 per person. Or by obtaining a partial work contract in Germany for 20 hours per week, regardless of the monthly salary.
