Germany Opportunity Card: A Faster Process to Move to Germany

Why Apply for a Germany Opportunity Card?

• Easy and Fast Entry: The Opportunity Card allows quicker entry into Germany, enabling jobseekers to start their search for employment without needing a permanent job offer.
• Point-Based System: This card utilizes a transparent point-based system evaluating skills, qualifications, work experience, language proficiency, and age, making it accessible to many applicants. You can easily evaluate these points using the Germany Opportunity Card Points Calculator for free.
• One-Year Residence Permit: This card provides a one-year residence permit, giving holders ample time to find suitable employment in Germany.
• Access to a Larger Talent Pool: For employers, the Opportunity Card opens access to a broader pool of qualified candidates, making it easier to find skilled workers.
• Professional Qualifications Recognition: Holders with at least two years of work experience and recognized professional qualifications are eligible, ensuring that applicants meet Germany's high standards3.
• Comprehensive Health Insurance Coverage: Cardholders benefit from free travel health insurance worth up to €953 and access to Germany's public health insurance with English-speaking services.
• Enhanced Job Market Opportunities: The Opportunity Card aims to attract young talent from outside the EU. With an estimated 780,000 job openings across various sectors, Germany offers abundant employment opportunities for cardholders.

For people outside the EU who wish to work abroad, especially in Germany, the Germany opportunity card is a gold mine for you. Known as the ‘Chancenkarte’ in German, this opportunity card allows applicants from non-EU countries to enter Germany and look for employment without having a permanent job contract. For skilled workers and professionals, this card opens up a plethora of opportunities for work in Germany. Germany launched this card to attract more skilled workers to fill the German workforce.

Germany has been facing a shortage in its local workforce for the last few years, and the issue has become quite critical of late. Germany aims to attract new talent through the opportunity card and fill its workforce with the incentives provided, unlike any other country. Any applicant from any country outside the EU who wants to look for a suitable job in Germany can avail this opportunity card. It makes finding work easier than ever before. 

Of course, there are some requirements that you have to meet regarding eligibility and financial security, But if you qualify, getting the Germany opportunity card will be a piece of cake. It gives you a 12-month stay permit in Germany with a max of 20 hours per week of work. You cannot find a better deal than this! Here is everything you need to know about the Germany opportunity card. 

What is the Germany Opportunity Card?

The Germany Opportunity Card, also known as the "Chancenkarte," is a new immigration initiative introduced by Germany to attract skilled workers from non-EU countries. This card allows individuals to enter Germany without a permanent job offer and seek employment for up to one year. Here are some key aspects of the Germany Opportunity Card:

Key Features of Germany Opportunity Card

• Purpose: The Opportunity Card is designed to facilitate the entry of skilled workers into Germany to address labour shortages, particularly in fields like engineering, IT, and healthcare.
• Duration: It provides a one-year residence permit, which can be extended under certain conditions.
• Work Permission: Cardholders can work part-time for up to 20 hours per week while searching for a full-time job.
• Points System: Applicants must score at least six points based on criteria such as language skills, professional experience, age, and connection to Germany. For example, higher proficiency in German or English and younger age can earn more points.

Benefits of the Opportunity Card in Germany 2024

The Germany Opportunity Card, also known as the "Chancenkarte," offers several benefits for skilled workers from non-EU countries seeking to work and live in Germany. Here are six to seven key benefits of the Opportunity Card:

1. Simplified Entry Process: The Opportunity Card streamlines the immigration process, allowing skilled workers to enter Germany without a permanent job offer. This reduces bureaucratic hurdles and expedites approval times, making it easier to access the German job market.
2. Access to a Wide Range of Jobs: Holders can explore job opportunities in various sectors facing skill shortages, such as IT, engineering, and healthcare. This flexibility allows candidates to find employment that matches their skills and qualifications.
3. Work and Income Opportunities: The card allows holders to work part-time for up to 20 hours per week, providing an opportunity to earn a monthly income of over 1000 euros. This can help support the cost of living while searching for full-time employment.
4. Pathway to Permanent Residency: The Opportunity Card can serve as a stepping stone towards permanent residency in Germany. After a period of continuous employment and residence, cardholders may be eligible to apply for permanent residency, securing their long-term future in the country.
5. Integration Support Services: Germany offers various support services to help new arrivals settle in, including language courses, job search assistance, and integration programs. These services facilitate smoother adaptation to life in Germany and enhance employment prospects.
6. Extended Work Rights for Family Members: The Opportunity Card often grants work rights to spouses and family members of the cardholder, ensuring that the entire family can benefit from the move to Germany, which aids in the cardholder's settlement and integration.
7. Recognition of Foreign Qualifications: Germany has mechanisms in place to recognize foreign qualifications, making it easier for Opportunity Card holders to have their education and professional credentials recognized. This can significantly enhance their job prospects and career growth in Germany.

These benefits make the Germany Opportunity Card an attractive option for skilled professionals looking to advance their careers and improve their quality of life in Germany.

Also Read: Germany Cuts Visa Time for Indian Workers to 2 Weeks

Eligibility for the Germany Opportunity Card 2024

To be able to access the best that Germany has to give you, you need to be eligible for the Germany opportunity card. There are some important guidelines regarding eligibility listed by the German authorities for those who wish to move to Germany through the Germany opportunity card.

They are listed below:

• Educational Qualifications: Applicants must have at least two years of vocational training or a university degree recognized in their home country.
• Language Skills: Proficiency in German (at least A1 level) or English (at least B2 level) is required.
• Financial Stability: Applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial means to support themselves during their stay, which can include income from a part-time job.
• Age Limit: Preference is given to applicants under 35 years old, with points awarded for younger applicants.
• Professional Experience: Points are also awarded for professional work experience, especially if it aligns with Germany's job market needs.

Points System of the Germany Opportunity Card 

As you may already know, to get the Germany opportunity card, you must have at least six points on the point system allotted to screen the applicants for this card. The points distribution is done in the following manner:

New Germany Opportunity Card Application Process 2024

The Germany Opportunity Card, also known as "Chancenkarte," was introduced on June 1, 2024, as part of the country's efforts to attract skilled workers from non-EU countries. The latest information about the process of applying for an opportunity card is as follows:

Eligibility Requirements

Basic requirements:

• At least two years of vocational training or a university degree recognized in the applicant's country of origin

• Basic German language skills (A1 level) or good English skills (B2 level)

• Proof of sufficient financial means to support oneself during the stay

Points System:

Applicants must score at least six points based on the following criteria:

• Language proficiency

• Professional experience

• Age

• Connection to Germany

• Qualifications in high-demand professions

• Joint application with a qualified spouse/partner

Application Process

Document Preparation:

• Valid passport

• Proof of education and vocational training

• Language certificates

• Financial proof (e.g., employment contract for part-time work, blocked account)

• Evidence of previous stays in Germany (if applicable)

• Submission:

• Apply at the German embassy or consulate in your home country

• If already in Germany, apply at the local Foreigners' Registration Office

• Complete the online application form via VIDEX

• Print and sign two copies of the application form

• Provide two current passport photos and copies of your passport's data page

• Additional Requirements:

• Proof of accommodation in Germany

• Signed declaration for additional contact and legal representation information

Processing

The eligibility of the applicant will be checked by the responsible authority on the basis of the point system and documents submitted. The processing time may differ, but the authorities plan to do the processing as soon as possible.

Validity and Benefits

• The opportunity card is entitled to an overall of 12 months.

• The holders have the possibility to work part-time (with a limit of 20 hours per week) or to be engaged in trial work periods.

• If regular employment is established, the holder can ask for a general work permit.

Important Notes

• Applications can be submitted online through the Consular Services portal or at a German embassy or consulate.

• The card cannot be applied for if you are already in Germany

• Financial stability must be demonstrated, typically requiring proof of at least €1,027 per month

For the most up-to-date and detailed information, it's advisable to consult the German immigration expert at TerraTern.

Germany Opportunity Card 2024 Requirements

The Opportunity Card, effective from June 1, 2024, is designed to facilitate job seekers from non-EU countries to enter Germany and find employment. Below are the steps and requirements for acquiring the Opportunity Card:

1. Basic Requirements

• Language Skills: Basic German (A1) or English (C1).
• Education: At least two years of vocational training or a university degree recognized in the applicant's country of origin.
• Financial Means: Proof of sufficient financial means to support oneself, which can be demonstrated through an employment contract for a part-time job (up to 20 hours per week) or a blocked account with sufficient funds (€1,027/month).

2. Points System

Applicants must score at least six points based on the following criteria:

• Professional Experience: Up to five years of Experience in the learned profession.

• Language Proficiency: Higher levels of German (A1) or English (C1).

• Age: Younger applicants (under 35) receive more points.

• Connection to Germany: Previous stays in Germany for at least six months (excluding tourist visits).

3. Application Process

1. Prepare Documents:

• Valid passport.

• Proof of education and vocational training.

• Proof of language skills.

• Financial proof (e.g., employment contract, blocked account).

• Evidence of previous stays in Germany (if applicable).

2. Submit Application:

• Apply at the local Foreigners' Registration Office in Germany or the relevant German mission abroad (e.g., German Embassy or Consulate).

• Complete the application form online via VIDEX, print it out twice, and sign both copies.

• Provide two current passport photos and copies of the passport's data page.

3. Additional Requirements:

• Proof of accommodation in Germany (e.g., invitation letter, hotel booking).

• The declaration for additional contact and legal representation information was completed and signed twice.

4. Processing:

• The responsible authority will verify the applicant's eligibility based on the points system and provided documents.

• The processing time may vary, but authorities aim to expedite the process.

Also Read: Germany Job Seeker Visa Success Rate: Latest Update 2024

5. Work Permissions

• Trial Jobs: Unlimited trial jobs lasting up to two weeks each.

• Part-Time Work: Allowed to work part-time up to 20 hours per week.

6. Duration and Extension

• Initial Validity: 1 year.

• Extension: Possible for up to two additional years if employment is found or other residence criteria are met.

This streamlined process aims to attract skilled workers to Germany, making it easier for non-EU citizens to seek employment and integrate into the German labour market.

Difference Between Germany's Job Seeker Visa and the New Opportunity Card

Germany's immigration policies have evolved to attract skilled workers better. Effective June 1, 2024, the new Opportunity Card offers several advantages over the traditional Job Seeker Visa. Here are the key differences:

1. Validity Period

• Job Seeker Visa: Valid for 6 months, non-extendable.
• Opportunity Card: Valid for 1 year, extendable for up to 2 additional years if employment is found.

2. Eligibility Criteria

• Job Seeker Visa: Requires a university degree recognized in Germany and at least 5 years of professional experience.
• Opportunity Card: Requires a university degree or 2 years of vocational training. Opportunity cards have a points system based on qualifications, language skills, professional experience, age, and links to Germany.

3. Financial Requirements

• Job Seeker Visa: Proof of sufficient funds (€947/month).
• Opportunity Card: Proof of sufficient funds (€1,027/month), which can be demonstrated through a part-time job (up to 20 hours/week).

4. Work Permission

• Job Seeker Visa: Generally not allowed to work, except for trial work up to 10 hours/week.
• Opportunity Card: Allows part-time work up to 20 hours/week and unlimited trial jobs up to 2 weeks each.

5. Application Process

• Job Seeker Visa: Apply at the German embassy/consulate in your home country.
• Opportunity Card: Apply at the German embassy/consulate or local Foreigners' Registration Office in Germany.

6. Points System

• Job Seeker Visa: Not applicable.
• Opportunity Card: Points system based on various criteria, making it accessible to a broader range of applicants.

7. Family Reunification

• Job Seeker Visa: Not allowed.
• Opportunity Card: This is not allowed initially, but it is possible after securing employment and changing to a work visa.

8. Extension Possibility

• Job Seeker Visa: Not extendable.
• Opportunity Card: Extendable if employment is found or other residence criteria are met.

9. Recognition of Qualifications

• Job Seeker Visa: Required for academic and vocational qualifications.
• Opportunity Card: Eligibility is required for vocational qualifications but not for IT professionals with 2 years of experience.

10. Health Insurance

• Job Seeker Visa: Required.
• Opportunity Card: Required.

Germany Opportunity Card Fees

The Germany Opportunity Card, also known as the Chancenkarte, has a processing fee of €75. This fee is required when submitting your application for the card, which allows skilled workers from non-EU countries to enter Germany and seek employment. 

Germany Opportunity Card Processing Time

The processing time for the Germany Opportunity Card typically ranges from 4 to 6 months. This duration can vary based on factors such as the accuracy and completeness of the submitted documents, the applicant's profile, and the workload at the German Embassy or Consulate handling the application. It is advisable for applicants to submit genuine and up-to-date documents and apply well in advance to avoid any processing delays.

How to Apply for the Germany Opportunity Card from India?

1. Check Eligibility:

• Ensure you meet the basic eligibility criteria, which include being a non-European national, being 35 years of age or younger, having at least three years of professional work experience, and possessing language skills in German or English.
• Use the points-based system to assess your eligibility. You need to score at least six points based on factors such as qualifications, work experience, age, language proficiency, and previous stays in Germany.

2. Gather Required Documents:

• Valid passport with at least two empty pages.
• The completed application form (VIDEX) was printed and signed.
• Two biometric passport photos.
• Proof of educational and professional qualifications.
• Financial proof demonstrating sufficient means to support yourself during your stay in Germany.
• Language proficiency certificates (German or English).
• Motivation letter and CV detailing your professional experience.

3. Submit Application:

• Applications must be submitted through the German Embassy or Consulate in India. You may need to book an appointment online for submission.
• Pay the application fee of €75.

4. Await Processing:

• The processing time for the Opportunity Card can take between 4 to 6 months. It is advisable to apply well in advance to avoid delays.

5. Receive Decision:

• Once your application is processed, you will receive a decision. If approved, you will be issued the Opportunity Card, allowing you to stay in Germany for up to one year to search for employment.

This process allows you to enter Germany without a job offer and seek employment opportunities in various sectors facing skill shortages, such as IT, engineering, healthcare, and more.

Read More: How to Migrate to Germany from India in 2024? Experts Guide

Conclusion

The Germany opportunity card is one of the best ways to move to Germany for work purposes. There are many benefits attached to it. Moreover, Germany really needs foreign labour due to an ageing population, so you will have a lot of other benefits. Plus, the work unions in Germany are really strong, so you can always count on them to ensure that you never get misread at work. Otherwise, Germany is one of the best countries in which to live. With an excellent public infrastructure, transportation, affordability, which is better than most other Western countries, and safety. Germany is one of the best countries to live in today. It is also one of the most technologically advanced countries and has a lot of scope for growth.

Moving to Germany can be one of the best decisions you make. For immigration-related services, TerraTern is right here to help! We offer immigration-related services that can assist you throughout your process and even after you make your move, so you always have us to rely on.