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Germany Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte)

Germany Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) A New and Easy Way to Find a Job in Germany

Germany needs skilled people to work, so they have created a new card called the "Opportunity Card" (Chancenkarte). This card is for skilled people from other countries who want to go to Germany and find a job while they are there.

1. What is the Opportunity Card?

This is a special type of visa that allows you to stay in Germany for up to one year (12 months) so that you can find a job while you are there. The best thing about this card is that you do not need to have a job offer in Germany in advance. You can travel to Germany with this card and find a job there easily.

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2. Why Was the Opportunity Card Created?

Germany has a shortage of skilled people in some sectors. This card is designed to make it easier for talented people from all over the world to come to Germany and work here. It is better than the previous job seeker visa because it gives you more time and allows you to do some work.

3. What Are the Benefits of the Opportunity Card?

Go to Germany Without a Job

You do not need a job offer letter to go to Germany.

Stay in Germany for a Year

You will get 12 months to find a job in peace. If you find a job, you can extend this visa for up to 2 years.

Work Part-Time

While you are looking for a job, you can also work part-time for up to 20 hours per week. This can help you cover your daily expenses.

Trial Work

You can also work on a trial basis for 2 weeks before getting a job.

Permanent Residence

If you find a good job in Germany, you can change your visa to a work visa or permanent residency.

Travel in Europe

This is like a normal European visa, so you can also travel to other European (Schengen) countries.

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4. Who Can Apply? (Requirements)

There are two main ways to apply for an opportunity card:

Method 1: Direct Qualification

You are immediately eligible if you:

  • Have a university degree or at least 2 years of technical training (Ausbildung) from Germany.
  • Or, your degree or training abroad is fully recognized in Germany (this has to be checked by the German institutions Anabin or ZAB).
    If you qualify this way, you only need to prove that you have a very basic knowledge of German (A1 level) or a good command of English (B2 level).

Method 2: Earning Points

If you are not eligible under the first method, you must earn at least 6 points through the points system. These points are awarded for:

Academic Qualifications (Maximum 4 Points):

  • 4 points if your foreign degree is recognized to some extent in Germany.
  • 1 additional point if your studies or skills are in a field that is in demand in Germany (e.g. IT, engineering, doctorate).

Work Experience (Maximum 3 Points):

  • At least 2 years of work experience in the last 5 years: 2 points.
  • At least 3 years of work experience in the last 7 years: 3 points.

Language Skills (Maximum 3 Points):

  • German A2 level: 1 point.
  • German B1 level: 2 points.
  • German B2 level or higher: 3 points.
  • English C1 level or above: 1 point (this is combined with the points for German).

Age (Maximum 2 Points):

  • Under 35 years old: 2 points.
  • Between 35 and 40 years old: 1 point.

Previous Residence in Germany:

  • If you have lived in Germany for at least 6 months in the last 5 years (for study or work, not for sightseeing): 1 point.

Spouse Eligibility:

  • If your spouse is also applying with you and he or she also meets the requirements: 1 point.

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5. How to Apply for the Opportunity Card

You can apply for an opportunity card at the German embassy in your country. Here are some essential things:

Count the Points

First, see how many points you have.

Proof of Funds

You need to show that you can support yourself until you find a job. For this, you should have approximately €1,091 per month (approximately €13,092 per year). You will need to show this money in your bank account.

Health Insurance

You must have health insurance during your stay in Germany.

Prepare the Necessary Documents

Visa form, passport, study documents, language certificate, CV, motivation letter, proof of funds, health insurance, photos, etc.

Submit the Application

Submit the documents and give an interview at your nearest German embassy by date.

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6. When Did the Opportunity Card Start?

The German Opportunity Card started on June 1, 2024.

Important: This card is for people who want to find a job in Germany according to their qualifications. It does not guarantee a job, but rather provides an easy way to find a job. Always get the latest information from the German government websites and the embassy website.