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What is Chancenkarte (Opportunity Card)?
The Chancenkarte, also known as the Opportunity Card, is a visa program launched by the German government to attract skilled professionals from around the world.
It offers international talent a unique pathway to:
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Secure a residence permit in Germany for up to 1 year.
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Obtain a work visa to legally work while job searching.
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Launch a career in Germany by finding a job within a year.
Legal, Simple, and Quick Entry to Germany
Earn a Competitive Salary in Germany
Long-Term Residency Options
Requirements of Chancenkarte
Chancenkarte for Skilled Workers
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Recognized as a "skilled worker" under Section 18, Paragraph 3 of the Residence Act.
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Must prove that your foreign qualifications or university degrees are recognized in Germany.
Chancenkarte for Non Skilled Workers
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Show basic German (A1 CEFR) or English (B2 CEFR) language skills.
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Earn at least six points in the points system.
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Meet one of these criteria:
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Have a foreign university degree.​
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Have a professional qualification obtained after at least two years of training, recognized in your home country.
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Have a professional qualification issued by a German Chamber of Commerce Abroad.
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Points-Based System
4 Points
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Partial validation of a foreign professional qualification or authorization to work in a regulated profession (e.g., teaching, nursing, engineering).
3 Points
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At least five years of professional experience within the last seven years in the trained profession, following two years of vocational training.
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Alternatively, German language skills at B2 level.
2 Points
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Two years of professional experience (within the last five years) following vocational training.
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Applicants under 35 years old , German language skills at level B1.
1 Points
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Age 40 or younger.
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Previous stay in Germany for a minimum of six months (excluding tourism).
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Excellent English skills at C1 level.
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Basic German skills at A2 level.
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Vocational training/university degree in a field identified as having labor shortages in Germany.
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Applying for the Opportunity Card alongside your spouse.
Advantages of Opportunity Card
Skip the job offer and explore the German market to find your dream fit.
Fast Track Entry
Transparent system considers skills, experience, and language proficiency.
Points-Based System
Residence permit allows you to work while searching (up to 1 year).
Live & Work Legally
Gain valuable German work experience through part-time jobs (up to 20 hours/week).
Boost Employability
Program targets qualified professionals with relevant degrees or training.
Focus on Skilled Workers
This program can be the first step towards building a stable and prosperous life in Europe.
Pathway to Stay
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What is the Opportunity Card ?The Opportunity Card is a visa program designed to encourage skilled immigration to Germany for non-EU nationals, utilizing a points-based system.
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What benefits does the Opportunity Card offer ?The Opportunity Card provides a straightforward, expedited, and legal route to Germany for skilled workers, paving the way for employment and potential permanent residency.
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What financial resources do I need to show ?You must demonstrate you have enough financial resources to support yourself in Germany, such as an employment contract for a part-time job or personal savings.
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What are the eligibility criteria for the Opportunity Card ?Eligibility criteria include language proficiency, vocational training, professional experience, age, and previous stays in Germany, among others.
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Can I work in other EU countries with the Opportunity Card ?No, the Opportunity Card is specific to Germany, although it may facilitate mobility within the EU under certain conditions.
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How can I transition from the Opportunity Card to a permanent residence permit?After meeting certain conditions, such as continuous employment and integration, you can transition from the Opportunity Card to a permanent residence permit.
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Can the Opportunity Card be extended ?Yes, the Opportunity Card can be extended if you continue to meet the eligibility criteria and have valid reasons for the extension.
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What are the three pillars of immigration ?The three pillars of immigration are potential (qualifications), experience (work history), and integration (language and cultural knowledge).
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What is the difference between the potential pillar and the experience pillar ?The potential pillar focuses on your qualifications and skills, while the experience pillar emphasizes your work history and professional experience.
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What is a recognition partnership ?A recognition partnership is a cooperative agreement that helps recognize foreign qualifications in Germany.
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What special rules apply to IT professionals ?IT professionals may benefit from specific criteria, such as lower language requirements or recognition of practical experience over formal qualifications.
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How can I get my vocational training recognized ?Apply for recognition through the appropriate German authorities, providing all necessary documentation and translations.
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How can I prove a previous six-month stay in Germany ?You can prove your stay with rental agreements, employment contracts, or registration documents.
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Do tourist trips count towards the six-month stay requirement ?No, tourist trips do not count towards the six-month stay requirement
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How can I prove that I am a skilled worker ?Provide documentation of your vocational training, professional experience, and any relevant certifications.
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What financial resources do I need to show ?You must demonstrate you have enough financial resources to support yourself in Germany, such as an employment contract for a part-time job or personal savings.
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Do I need a permanent job offer to apply for the Opportunity Card ?No, a permanent job offer is not required, but you must show proof of financial means, such as a part-time job offer.
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What are the eligibility criteria for the Opportunity Card ?Eligibility criteria include language proficiency, vocational training, professional experience, age, and previous stays in Germany, among others.
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How can I prepare for the Opportunity Card ?Improve your German or English language skills, gather documentation of your vocational training and work experience, and ensure you have sufficient financial resources.
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When does the Opportunity Card become available ?The Opportunity Card program starts on June 1, 2024
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How long does it take to get an Opportunity Card ?The processing time can vary, typically taking from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the volume of applications and the completeness of your documentation.
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What does it mean for vocational training to be state-recognized ?State-recognized vocational training means that your qualifications are officially recognized by the relevant authorities in your home country.
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What is considered skilled employment ?Skilled employment refers to jobs that require specific vocational training or higher education qualifications.
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How do I verify my two-year vocational training ?You can prove your vocational training by submitting certificates, diplomas, and other official documents from your home country.
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Which language tests are accepted ?Accepted language tests include the Goethe-Zertifikat for German and IELTS/TOEFL for English.
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What are the rules for working part-time up to 20 hours a week ?You can work up to 20 hours per week in a part-time job to support yourself financially while in Germany.
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What job opportunities are available with the Opportunity Card ?You can work in various sectors, especially those with labor shortages, and take part-time jobs for up to 20 hours per week
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Who is considered a skilled worker ?A skilled worker is someone with vocational training or higher education qualifications that are recognized in Germany.
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Is self-employment allowed under the Opportunity Card ?Yes, self-employment is possible, provided you meet certain criteria and can prove your business’s viability.
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