Have you been thinking about how to relocate and work in Germany? Then this might just be the right opportunity for you. Germany is seeking more skilled workers and has introduced a new way for qualified foreign nationals to move to the country. Called the Opportunity Card, this allows non-EU citizens to relocate to Germany for a year in order to search for a job.
The government of Germany is rolling out a new scheme known as the Germany Skilled Workers Opportunity Card an initiative that will provide job opportunities for skilled workers who are interested in moving to Germany to take up skilled job offers having shortage of labour.
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The ‘opportunity card’ aims to assist qualified job seekers to search for jobs within the country. Under this new initiative, skilled workers with the right qualifications, experience and skills will be eligible to get the opportunity card without having to secure a permanent job contract before applying.
Germany Skilled Workers Opportunity Card | DETAILS
Germany’s ‘Opportunity Card’ program which will become effective from June 1, 2024 aims to allow foreign nationals with vocational experience or university education who achieve at least six points according to a mixed criteria point system to apply for a one-year (renewable) residence permit for the purpose of seeking employment in Germany.
The opportunity card aims to streamline the process for skilled workers to find employment in Germany, and not going through the rigorous and lengthy recognition procedures. This requires a minimum of two years of vocational training.
This program is part of the broader package of immigration reforms approved in 2023 which aim to make Germany more attractive to foreign workers.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Germany Skilled Workers Opportunity Card Application, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Third-country nationals who receive full recognition of their foreign qualifications and are therefore considered “skilled workers” under Section 18 para. 3 of the Residence Act (AufenthG) can obtain an opportunity card without any further special requirements.
- Other applicants must provide evidence of a foreign university degree, a vocational qualification of at least two years’ duration (in each case recognised by the state in the country of training) or a vocational qualification issued by a German Chamber of Commerce Abroad. In addition, a basic knowledge of German (level A1 CEFR) or English (level B2 CEFR) is required.
- If the above requirements are met, points are awarded for criteria such as recognition of qualifications in Germany, language skills, professional experience, age, links to Germany, and the potential of accompanying partners or spouses. Applicants must score a minimum of six points to receive an opportunity card.
How to Apply for the Opportunity Card
You can apply for the Germany Skilled Worker Opportunity Card at the relevant German mission abroad in your country of origin (for example, at the German Embassy or German Consulate). To do so, you must fill out an application and hold a valid passport. You must also have proof of your education, language skills, previous stays etc. You must also have sufficient financial means.
If you are already in Germany, simply submit the application to the relevant local Foreigners’ Registration Office.