The German Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte)
More details :
The Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte), specified under Section 20a of the German Residence Act (AufenthG), facilitates the entry of skilled workers from non-EU/EEA countries and Switzerland into the German labor market. Below is a comprehensive guide covering the eligibility criteria, application process, benefits, and detailed opportunities provided by the Opportunity Card.
Eligibility :
Eligibility and Requirements
To be eligible for the Opportunity Card, applicants must meet one of the following two options:
Option 1: Full Recognition of Qualifications
Fully Recognized Qualifications: You must have a foreign professional or academic qualification fully recognized in Germany, or have obtained a university degree or professional qualification in Germany.
Residence Permit for Jobseekers: If you have obtained your qualification in Germany, you can apply for a residence permit for jobseekers under Section 20 of the Residence Act, allowing for an 18-month job search period and unrestricted part-time work during this time.
Option 2: Points-Based System (Minimum of Six Points): Applicants must score at least six points based on the following criteria:
Equivalence of Qualification: 4 points for partial recognition or the need for compensatory measures in regulated professions. To support your visa application, you will need a positive result for this qualification, which you can apply for online at the Central Office for Foreign Education (ZAB).
Qualification in a Shortage Occupation: 1 point for qualifications in occupations listed as in short supply.
Professional Experience: 2 points for at least two years of experience in the last five years; 3 points for at least five years in the last seven years.
Language Skills: 1 point for German A2, 2 points for German B1, 3 points for German B2 or higher, plus 1 additional point for English C1 or native proficiency.Age: 2 points for those 35 years or younger, 1 point for ages 36-40.
Previous Stays in Germany: 1 point for legal residence in Germany for at least six months in the last five years.
Skilled Worker Potential of Spouses/Partners: 1 point if your spouse or partner meets the requirements for the Opportunity Card.
Required documents :
Recognition documents for qualifications.
Certificates of professional experience.
Language proficiency certificates.
Proof of age (e.g., passport).
Financial proof: You need to demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support your job search in Germany. This can be shown through a blocked bank account containing a minimum of €1,027 per month (annually €12,324) or a declaration of commitment.
How to apply :
From Abroad
Apply at the German diplomatic mission in your home country.
Use the world map on the official site to find contact details.
From Within Germany
If already residing in Germany with a valid residence title, apply through the local foreigners' authority (Ausländerbehörde).
The Scholarship Benefits:
Job Search
Issued for up to one year for job search or self-employment.
Part-time jobs allowed up to 20 hours per week.
Job trials up to two weeks per employer aimed at securing qualified employment, apprenticeships, or participation in qualification programs.
Self-Employment
Option to become self-employed during the job search period.
Transition to Other Residence Permits
Apply for residence permits for qualified employment, vocational training, recognition of professional qualifications, or self-employment upon securing a specific job or apprenticeship.
Extension
Extend the Opportunity Card for up to two additional years if the job meets the requirements for qualified employment but does not qualify for other residence titles.