Germany Unveils Opportunity Card for Skilled Workers Starting June 2024

Great news for skilled professionals from outside the EU/EEA or Switzerland! Germany is launching a new visa option, the Opportunity Card, starting June 2024. This card allows qualified foreign workers to live in Germany and actively search for employment for up to one year.

Understanding Opportunity Card

The Opportunity Card, launching in Germany in June 2024, is a new visa initiative for skilled foreign workers. It allows those with recognized qualifications and basic German or English proficiency to live in Germany, seek employment, and work part-time without needing a permanent employment contract.

Streamlined Process

Foreigners who possess fully recognized qualifications obtained abroad and are classified as “skilled workers” will be eligible to stay in Germany and seek employment under the new Opportunity Card.

Applicants will no longer need to provide proof of a permanent employment contract, simplifying the process significantly.

To apply, individuals must demonstrate their qualifications through one of the following:

• A foreign university degree
• A vocational qualification recognized by the home country’s state
• A vocational certification from a German Chamber of Commerce Abroad

Additionally, applicants need to have a basic understanding of either German (A1 level CEFR) or English (B2 level CEFR).

Here’s How to Qualify

Are you from outside the EU/EEA or Switzerland and interested in the Opportunity Card under Section 20a of the Residence Act? There are two main paths to obtaining an Opportunity Card:

Option 1: Fast Track for Recognized Qualifications

• Hold a foreign university degree or vocational qualification that is fully recognized in Germany.
• Alternatively, you may have obtained your degree in Germany itself.

Benefits: This option allows you to apply for a residence permit for jobseekers under Section 20 of the Residence Act. This grants you a longer timeframe (18 months) to find a job and unrestricted part-time work during your search.

Also Read: EU Blue Card: Work Permit for Non-EU Citizens – Eligibility, Application Process

Option 2: Points-Based System for Other Qualifications

• Meet the minimum requirement of six points in the new points system.
• Possess completed vocational or academic training recognized by the country where you obtained it (with a minimum of two years for vocational training).
• Verification of your qualification can be obtained online through the Central Office for Foreign Education (ZAB).

Points Are Awarded For

1. Age
2. Professional Experience
3. Language Proficiency (German A1 or English B2 minimum)
4. Recognition of qualifications in Germany
5. Potential for accompanying spouses/partners
6. Existing connections to Germany

Validity and Renewal

The Opportunity Card is valid for up to one year, during which the holder must be self-sufficient. Cardholders can work up to 20 hours per week in secondary employment or participate in work trials.

If employment is secured within this period but does not immediately lead to another residence title, the Opportunity Card can be renewed for an additional two years.

Benefits of the Opportunity Card

The Opportunity Card simplifies the job search process for skilled workers, allowing them to work in Germany without undergoing a lengthy recognition procedure.

• Legally live and job hunt in Germany for one year.
• Work part-time (up to 20 hours weekly) or participate in work trials.
• Potentially extend your stay for two additional years with a job offer.
• Streamlined job search without lengthy qualification recognition procedures.

Conclusion

Overall, the Opportunity Card presents a fantastic opportunity for skilled workers to gain valuable experience in the German job market and potentially land their dream job.