Updated On: 28 September 2024
Opportunity Card Germany
Fast & Legal Entry into Germany
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For the Non-European contestants, Opportunity Card Germany can be considered as the icing on the cake. Through the Opportunity Card, or what is also called as the Chancenkarte, non-European working professionals and international students can enter Germany with no job Offer in hand. In addition to that, in order to be able to work in Germany through the Opportunity Card, they are not required to provide evidence of a permanent work contract.
In Germany, the Opportunity Card is made available to foreign students and working individuals who are qualified as skilled workers or who score a minimum of 6 points in the points assessment. Their means of support must be ensured for the whole period of their stay in Germany.
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Opportunity Card: Working in Germany with the Opportunity Card
The Opportunity Card simplifies the process of job seeking in Germany for applicants. The same has made possible working in Germany with no need for a long tedious recognition process. However, to be eligible for the opportunity card, it is enough to possess only two years of vocational training or a university degree plus some German (A1) or English (B2) and candidates have the right to do a two-week trial job in Germany, or take up to 20 hours a week paid work in the country.
As well, the Opportunity Cardholders in Germany are also entitled to remain in the country for a maximum of 12 months. However, these twelve months will have to be spent in engagement in finding a stable employment in the country. The stay in the country with the opportunity card germany can be further extended for a period of two years. Candidates need to lodge application for the extension of their stay with the Local Foreigners’ Registration office.
Prerequisites of Opportunity Card Germany
By adhering to the points stacking system, it is possible to appreciate the underlying selection criteria and one’s qualifications which can eventually result in acquiring the Opportunity Card. This can be realized as follows:
Basic Requirements (No Points Awarded)
- Basic Requirements: (No Points Awarded)
- Language Skills: German at level A1 or English at level B2.
- Education: At least two years of vocational training or a university degree recognized in your country of origin.
- Financial Security: You must demonstrate financial stability, such as through a part-time job (up to 20 hours a week). This can be proven with an employment contract.
Points System Criteria
- Language Skills: Additional points for higher proficiency in German or English.
- Professional Experience: Points awarded based on your work history in relevant fields.
- Age: Points vary depending on your age at the time of application.
- Connection to Germany: Points for existing ties to Germany, such as previous studies or work experience in the country.
A minimum of six points must be obtained in order to earn the Opportunity Card. These auxiliary measures will help you to meet the basic requirements and score points in the specified categories, thereby helping you to explore new possibilities in Germany.
Points distribution for the Opportunity Card
- Basic requirements: Either functional German at a minimum level of A1 or English at level B2 and at least two years vocational education as per the requirement of the home country. You will also need to demonstrate adequate financial means. This can be counter-checked by providing a part time employment offer letter (20 hours per week) for instance.
- In the case of recognition of a foreign professional qualification or a regulated profession practised – e.g. teacher or nurse or engineer, four points are granted. Very few applicants fall under these criteria.
- Three points are awarded for five years’ worth of work experience (in the last seven years) in the field of profession followed by two years of work training as prescribed by the country of origin, or: one gets curriculum vitae two points if able to converse in German at B2 level.
- Two points are allocated for two years’ work experience following vocational training (within five years). If you are not more than 35 years old, you also receive two points as well. German language proficiency at B1 level is equally valued at two points.
- Foreigners aged not more than 40 will be awarded one point along with the indelible proof for prior residing in Germany for not less than six months. Excluding tourist visas does not help.
- Also, for knowledge of English at a very high level (C1), German at a basic level (A2), whereas, ter obtained vocational training/university education in a field experiencing severe shortage of labor supply in Germany, applies with the spouse for Opportunity Card.
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Advantages of the Opportunity Card
Opportunity Card for Candidates
The introduction of Opportunity Card has opened up your windows for finding employment in Germany. This is because the card system gives access to all persons without a fixed work contract but holders must possess an equivalent of at least two years vocational training or a bachelor degree from their native country and can communicate in basic German A1 or B2 English.
For Opportunity Card applicants, it is mandatory to provide evidence of financial means, which is possible via part-time employment (maximum of 20 hours a week). When applying for the Opportunity Card, it is possible to provide Financial security through an employment contract already signed.
The benefits of the Opportunity Card include:
- A new and easier way to arrive in Germany
- Long term stay in Germany for 12 months with a chance for a permanent residence permit
- Able to earn income of more than 1000 euros per month
- A work permit to engage in employment of 20 hours per week or less in Germany
- Opportunity to secure a professional part- time or full-time job
Opportunity Card for Employers
Procuring a workforce in Germany that is skilled enough for the tasks at hand and doesn’t mind working in Germany for quite long is proving challenging. A novel residence visa for non-EU citizens, the Opportunity Card considerably increases the number of potential applicants. Lengthy binding approval procedures would be made easier so that applicants for the position may look for fulfilling and meaningful work in the shortest time possible.
The benefits of the Opportunity Card:
- Access to a wider market by leveraging foreign skilled workers.
- New laws that make it easier to enter Germany.
- There is no need for the Federal Employment Agency to approve it.
- Simplification of processes for rapid commencement of work upon entry
- Signing of contracts for non-structured work (20 hours a week minimum wage after entry) with interested candidates only prior to their entry
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Conclusion
Opportunity Card has increased the number of working professionals and students going to Germany for jobs. Germany Opportunity Card came as a big chance for those who want to pursue their career either in Germany or any other country. You can begin your career in Germany when you have the Opportunity Card and there is little requirements to apply for one. Use the Opportunity Card for Germany.
Reach out to SIEC for Application inquiries and assistance.
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