The Germany Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) will enable third-country nationals to seek employment. This card is similar to the Germany Job Seeker Visa but has some key differences. With the Germany Opportunity Card, candidates from non-EU countries can enter Germany to look for a suitable job. However, you need to know about the requirements, the application process, and the difference between the Job Seeker Visa and the Opportunity Card.
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Applicants who apply for the Germany Opportunity Card do not have to show proof of a permanent employment contract. The Opportunity Card is based on a point system, and you only need 6 points to qualify. These 6 points will cover your basic education, such as your degree, age, and experience (if you have any). The applications for the Germany Opportunity Card will officially open on 1st June 2024.
Benefits of Germany Opportunity Card
- It is a Point Based System.
- You only need 6 points.
- You can stay for one year on an opportunity card.
- You will get a one-year residence permit to look for a job.
- You do not need a permanent employment contract!
- You can even work in Germany during the Job seeking period on this opportunity card
- You are allowed to do part-time Jobs on this Card.
Understand the Point Based System
The Opportunity card is based on the points-based system.
- Total Points: 14
- Required Points: 6
| Total Points | 14 |
|---|---|
| How many Points Required | 6 |
| Qualification (Degree) | Up to 6 points if you have a university degree. |
| Experience | Up to 3 points |
| Age | 2 points if you are under 35 or 1 point if you are between 35 and 40 years old. |
| German Language | Up to 3 points if you speak German |
| Previous stays in Germany | 1 point if you have previously lived in Germany for at least 6 months. |
| Spouses | 1 point if your spouse also meets the requirements for an opportunity card. |
Requirements and Eligibility
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To be eligible for the German Opportunity Card you must satisfy the criteria:
- This opportunity Card is for non-Europeans.
- You must have a vocational or educational degree.
- Get at least 6 Points.
- You must not have a criminal record.
- You must have sufficient financial resources to support yourself during your stay in Germany.
- Hold a degree or vocational training
- Have three years of professional experience
- Have German language skills or proof of having previously stayed in Germany
- Be 35 years of age or younger.
- You have to apply through the German Embassy.
How to Apply for the Germany Opportunity Card?
Opening Date: June 1st, 2024: Opportunity Card applications open and the card officially comes into effect.
You can apply through either the local Foreigners’ Registration Office in Germany or the relevant German mission abroad in your country of origin such as an embassy, or consulate.
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Difference Between German Job Seeker Visa and the Opportunity Card
| Feature | Germany Job Seeker Visa | Germany Opportunity Card |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Enter Germany to search for a job | Enter Germany to search for a job and potentially stay longer |
| Work Experience | Minimum 3 years of relevant work experience | Minimum 3 years of relevant work experience |
| Stay Duration | 6 months | 1 year, extendable for another year |
| Application Process | A more traditional visa application process with specific documents required | A point-based system with an online application form. |
| Flexibility | Limited – cannot switch career fields easily | More flexible – can change career fields or take internships |
| How to Apply | Through Embassy | Through Embassy |
Please Note: The Germany Opportunity Card is a new program that is still being developed. The details may change before it is officially launched in June 2024.
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