What is Germany’s Opportunity Card and how can it benefit job seekers?
Germany is changing its immigration policies, which is expected to make it easier than ever for non-Europeans to move to Germany. The German government started issuing the ‘Opportunity Card’ on June 1 to meet the country’s shortage of workers and skilled workers, making it easier for non-Europeans to work legally in Germany. Under this new scheme, eligible persons will be able to find a job while staying in Germany for one year. During their stay for the purpose of seeking employment, the holders of the Opportunity Card will be eligible for part-time employment and may work up to 20 hours per week.
Apart from this, they will be able to work there for two weeks on a trial basis to get a new job. However, if you hold a professional qualification that is recognized in Germany, you can apply for an opportunity card as a skilled worker without having to obtain the minimum points. In addition, the applicant must prove that they have enough financial resources to cover their expenses until they find a job in Germany. The Opportunity Card is a points-based system similar to the ‘Green Card’ used in the United States, which allows professionals with specialized skills to come to the United States.
A points system can be used to determine whether you are eligible for an Opportunity Card. You need at least six points to get an Opportunity Card if they meet the basic requirements: Educational qualification: You will be eligible for four points if you can prove your educational qualification to German standards and establish partial equivalence as a result. Professional qualification: If you’re qualified in a profession that has a skills shortage in Germany, you’ll get one point.
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Professional experience: You will be eligible for two points if you have acquired at least two years of professional experience relevant to your qualification within the last five years. And if you have at least three years of professional experience in the previous seven years, you get three points. Language proficiency: Get one point for a Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) level A2 proficiency in German, two points for a B1 level, and three points for a B2 level or above. You can also get an extra point if you have a C1 or higher level of English language skills.
Age: If you are under 35 years of age, you get two points, while those between 35 and 40 years of age get one point. Your relationship with Germany: If you have lived legally in Germany for at least six months in the last five years, you will get one point. This includes accommodation for education, language acquisition, or gainful employment. It does not include visits made for tourist and recreational purposes. Common Application: If you apply for an Opportunity Card together with your spouse, either of you can get an extra point provided you meet all other conditions.