The Opportunity Card (“Chancenkarte”) offers several key advantages for applicants from non-EU countries seeking employment in Germany:
Key Advantages:
1. Fast Entry into Germany:
- Applicants can enter Germany without needing a permanent employment contract beforehand.
- The Opportunity Card provides a 12-month stay to search for a suitable job.
- This process simplifies the previously complicated entry procedures.
2. Chance of Permanent Residence:
- Although the initial residence permit is for one year, it can be extended if a job is found.
- Applicants can work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) or take unlimited t trial jobs during their stay.
- Successful job seekers can transition to a longer residence permit.
3. Good Income Potential:
- Opportunity Card holders can earn a minimum wage of €12.00 per hour (as of May 2023).
- Part-time work (20 hours per week) can yield over €1000 per month.
- Full-time work significantly increases earning potential.
4. Guaranteed Work Permit:
- The Opportunity Card simplifies the process of obtaining a work permit.
- It allows entry and job search without the need for a prior job offer or r recognition as a skilled worker.
- Basic requirements include two years of vocational training or a university degree, basic German (A1) or English (B2) proficiency, and sufficient financial means for self-support.
5. Possibility for Full-Time Work:
- The Opportunity Card allows for part-time work and trial jobs, providing flexibility in finding suitable employment.
- Once a suitable job is found, applicants can apply to change their residence permit to enable full-time work.
- The ability to find part-time or full-time employment significantly increases the chances of securing long-term residence in Germany.
Basic Requirements:
- Education: At least two years of vocational training or a university degree.
- Language Skills: Basic knowledge of German (A1) or English (B2).
- Financial Means: Ability to finance living expenses independently, which can be achieved through part-time work allowed under the Opportunity Card.
Application Process:
Applications can be submitted at the Foreigners’ Registration Office in Germany or the competent German mission abroad (e.g., German Embassy) in the applicant’s country of origin.
Applicants need to prove their qualifications through a points system, requiring at least six points to qualify for the Opportunity Card.
Conclusion:
The Opportunity Card simplifies the immigration process for skilled workers from
non-EU countries, offering a streamlined pathway to enter Germany, search for a
job, and potentially secure permanent residence. By meeting the basic
requirements and utilizing the flexible work options provided by the
Opportunity Card, applicants have a good chance of successfully integrating
into the German job market and securing a long-term future in Germany.
If you want to check your chance for getting this card, you can do a test on the website
link below.
The Opportunity Card for foreign professionals | Chancenkarte
For more info you can contact our German member : Assman B&K: ja@buk-assmann.de
