Are you Eligible for Germany’s New Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte)?
Answer below questions to find out!
What is Germany’s Opportunity Card?
Germany’s “Chancenkarte,” or Opportunity Card, is a novel visa framework designed for individuals from non-EU nations seeking employment in Germany. Same is implemented from June 1, 2024, and this initiative is a key component of Germany’s strategy to address the skilled labor shortage in vital sectors such as healthcare, IT, teaching and engineering.
The visa system is based on a points-based mechanism, where eligibility is determined for professionals like teachers, nurses, or engineers with proficiency in English or German.
Prerequisites for the Opportunity Card include:
- Completion of a minimum of two years of vocational training or possession of a pertinent university degree from the applicant’s country of origin.
- Proficiency in the German or English language.
- Proof of sufficient financial resources or income from part-time employment (up to 20 hours weekly) to support a year’s stay in Germany, totaling more than 12,000 Euros.
Enhanced Flexibility for Skilled Workers:
The German government has increased the duration of the residence permit for newcomers to 24 months, a rise from the previous 18 months, to fulfill adaptation requirements. This permit can be extended by another 12 months, capping the total residency at three years.
Additionally, the permissible hours for secondary employment during qualification processes have been raised from 10 to 20 hours per week, offering better access to the job market for skilled professionals. Verification of Foreign Credentials:
With the latest amendments, Germany has eased the process for the recognition of foreign qualifications under the new Skilled Immigration Act, introducing two new routes:
- Individuals needing a skills assessment for qualification equivalence may obtain a residence permit for up to six months during the evaluation period.
- Applicants must demonstrate German language proficiency at level A2 or above (CEFR).
Provisions for Family Members:
The immigration procedure for family members joining skilled workers has been simplified by Germany, which includes:
- Removal of the requirement for spouses or minor children to provide evidence of adequate living space when joining skilled workers in Germany, easing the transition for families.
Understanding the Points System of the Opportunity Card:
Applicants are evaluated on a points system, with a minimum of six points required. According to the official Chancenkarte website, points are allocated as follows:
- Four points for partial recognition of a foreign professional qualification or for authorization to engage in regulated professions like teaching, nursing, or engineering.
- Three points for five years of relevant professional experience within the last seven years, including two years of vocational training as per the home country’s regulations. Additionally, three points for proficient German language skills at level B2.
- Two points for two years of professional experience following vocational training within the last five years. Points are also awarded for applicants under 35 years of age or those with German language skills at level B1.
- One point for candidates under 40 years of age or for those with a prior stay in Germany of at least six months (excluding tourist visits).
- One additional point for English proficiency at level C1, German language skills at level A2, vocational training or university degrees in sectors with labor shortages in Germany, or if applying for the Opportunity Card alongside a spouse.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Card Name | Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) |
| Purpose | Visa system for non-EU nationals to find jobs in Germany |
| Effective Date | June 1, 2024 |
| Target Sectors | Healthcare, IT, Engineering |
| Eligibility | Skilled workers with vocational training or university degree; proficiency in German or English; sufficient funds |
| Residence Permit | Initially 24 months, extendable to 36 months |
| Secondary Employment | Up to 20 hours per week |
| Foreign Qualifications | Simplified recognition; residence permit during assessment |
| Family Members | Easier immigration process; no proof of living space required |
| Points System | Minimum 6 points; points for qualifications, experience, age, language skills, and family application |