Germany Opportunity Card 2024: How to apply, eligibility criteria, requirements of Chancenkarte for International Job Seekers

22-Apr-2024 Germany Opportunity Card 2024: How to apply, eligibility criteria, requirements of Chancenkarte for International Job Seekers

Germany has one of the strongest economies in the world, known for its precision engineering, cutting-edge technology, and leading industries like automotive and manufacturing. This creates abundant job opportunities and a stable economy. Germany is committed to sustainability and environmental protection. It leads the way in renewable energy, with wind and solar power contributing significantly to its energy mix. Plus, its efficient public transportation system and bike-friendly cities make it easy to live a green lifestyle.

The Opportunity Card, known as "Chancenkarte," offers a streamlined process for candidates from non-EU countries to enter Germany in search of suitable job opportunities. Unlike traditional visa routes, candidates don't need to present proof of a permanent employment contract. The Opportunity Card is issued to candidates recognized as skilled workers or those who score at least six points using the points system. Additionally, they must demonstrate means of support guaranteed for the duration of their stay. This card not only facilitates initial entry but also opens doors to permanent residence in Germany for qualified professionals. One of the key benefits of the Opportunity Card is the immediate work permit granted upon successful application, allowing candidates to start working without delay.

German Opportunity Card Features

Simplified Entry Process: Candidates can enter Germany without the need for a lengthy recognition procedure.
Eligibility Criteria: Applicants must have at least two years of vocational training or a university degree, along with sufficient knowledge of German (A1) or English (B2).
Trial or Part-Time Employment: The Opportunity Card entitles holders to take up a two-week trial job or a part-time job of up to 20 hours a week.
Duration of Stay: Holders of the Opportunity Card can stay in Germany for one year, during which the focus should be on finding a suitable job.
Extension: It's possible to extend the stay with the Opportunity Card by up to two additional years. This extension must be applied for at the local Foreigners’ Registration Office.

Germany is a fantastic place to live, full of rich culture, strong economy, and high living standards. Germany is known for its vibrant culture, from its delicious food and famous beer to its classical music and iconic festivals like Oktoberfest. You'll find a mix of traditions from different regions, making it a diverse and exciting place to explore. Germany boasts a rich history, with stunning castles, medieval towns, and museums that showcase its past. From the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin to the fairytale-like Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria, there's something for everyone to admire.

Let's See How it Works

Application: Candidates apply for the Opportunity Card, demonstrating their qualifications and language proficiency.
Entry and Job Search: Once approved, candidates enter Germany and actively search for employment.
Employment: Upon securing a job, candidates can start working immediately.
Extension (Optional): If needed, candidates can extend their stay with the Opportunity Card for up to two additional years, allowing more time for career growth and integration into German society.

Germans enjoy a high standard of living, with excellent healthcare, education, and infrastructure. The work-life balance is highly valued, with generous vacation time and strong workers' rights. Germans are known for their efficiency, reliability, and friendliness. They embrace diversity and innovation, making Germany a welcoming and forward-thinking country. The Opportunity Card is a valuable resource for qualified professionals seeking opportunities in Germany. It offers a straightforward pathway to employment, helping candidates navigate the complexities of immigration and job hunting in a foreign country. Once you get the Opportunity Card, you'll have a 12-month residence permit. During this time, you can search for a job or get your professional qualification recognized later on. You can try out a job for up to two weeks (as many times as you need), and work part-time for up to 20 hours a week.

Understanding the Points System for German Opportunity Card
When applying for the Opportunity Card, you can match your own qualifications with the required selection criteria. You need to reach a total of six points to secure the card. Here's how the points system works:

Basic Requirements (No points awarded)

To be eligible for the Opportunity Card, you must meet the following basic requirements:

Language Skills

You need to have German language skills at level A1 or English language skills at level B2.

Educational Qualifications

You must have at least two years of vocational training or a university degree recognized in your country of origin.

Financial Security

You need to prove that you are financially secure, which can be demonstrated through an employment contract for a part-time job (up to 20 hours per week).

Points Distribution

4-Points: Awarded for partial recognition of a foreign professional qualification or permission to practice a regulated profession (e.g., teacher, nurse, engineer). However, very few applicants meet these criteria.
3-Points: Awarded for either five years of professional experience (in the last seven years) in the learned profession along with preceding two years of professional training according to the rules of the country of origin OR good German language skills at level B2.
2-Points: Awarded for two years of professional experience preceded by vocational training (in the last five years). If you're not older than 35, you also get two points. Additionally, having German language skills at level B1 earns you two points.
1-Point: Awarded for being under 40 years old and for a previous stay in Germany lasting at least six months (documented proof required). Previous stays as a tourist do not count. One point is also awarded for very good knowledge of English (C1), reasonable knowledge of German (A2), having vocational training/university degree in an area of official labor shortage in Germany, or applying for the Opportunity Card together with your spouse.

The Opportunity Card provides a simpler way to enter Germany, bypassing the need for a permanent employment contract. You can stay in Germany for up to 12 months with the Opportunity Card, with the prospect of obtaining a permanent residence permit. You can earn more than 1,000 euros per month. The card grants a work permit for employment of up to 20 hours per week, giving you flexibility to balance work and other activities. There's a chance to find a qualified part-time or full-time job during your stay.

To know more about the Germany Opportunity Card and to calculate the points, Google: Calculate Points for Germany Chancenkarte

Source

German Opportunity Card Features

Simplified Entry Process: Candidates can enter Germany without the need for a lengthy recognition procedure.

Eligibility Criteria: Applicants must have at least two years of vocational training or a university degree, along with sufficient knowledge of German (A1) or English (B2).

Trial or Part-Time Employment: The Opportunity Card entitles holders to take up a two-week trial job or a part-time job of up to 20 hours a week.

Duration of Stay: Holders of the Opportunity Card can stay in Germany for one year, during which the focus should be on finding a suitable job.

Extension: It's possible to extend the stay with the Opportunity Card by up to two additional years. This extension must be applied for at the local Foreigners’ Registration Office.

Let's See How it Works

Application: Candidates apply for the Opportunity Card, demonstrating their qualifications and language proficiency.

Entry and Job Search: Once approved, candidates enter Germany and actively search for employment.

Employment: Upon securing a job, candidates can start working immediately.Extension (Optional): If needed, candidates can extend their stay with the Opportunity Card for up to two additional years, allowing more time for career growth and integration into German society.

Understanding the Points System for German Opportunity CardWhen applying for the Opportunity Card, you can match your own qualifications with the required selection criteria. You need to reach a total of six points to secure the card. Here's how the points system works:

Basic Requirements (No points awarded)

To be eligible for the Opportunity Card, you must meet the following basic requirements:

Points Distribution

4-Points: Awarded for partial recognition of a foreign professional qualification or permission to practice a regulated profession (e.g., teacher, nurse, engineer). However, very few applicants meet these criteria.

3-Points: Awarded for either five years of professional experience (in the last seven years) in the learned profession along with preceding two years of professional training according to the rules of the country of origin OR good German language skills at level B2.

2-Points: Awarded for two years of professional experience preceded by vocational training (in the last five years). If you're not older than 35, you also get two points. Additionally, having German language skills at level B1 earns you two points.

Employment: Upon securing a job, candidates can start working immediately.
Extension (Optional): If needed, candidates can extend their stay with the Opportunity Card for up to two additional years, allowing more time for career growth and integration into German society.

Understanding the Points System for German Opportunity Card
When applying for the Opportunity Card, you can match your own qualifications with the required selection criteria. You need to reach a total of six points to secure the card. Here's how the points system works: