Understanding the Germany Opportunity Card
The Opportunity Card is a special visa introduced under Section 20a of the Residence Act (AufenthG) in Germany. Its primary aim is to facilitate the entry of skilled professionals from outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland into the German job market. With this card, you get a better shot at connecting with German employers and securing employment that matches your qualifications.
What are the eligibility criteria for Germany opportunity card?
So, who can apply for this golden opportunity card? There are two main routes to eligibility:
- Option 1: You have a recognized foreign qualification.
- Option 2: You meet the requirements of a points system.
Option 1: Recognized foreign Qualifications
If you hold a professional or academic qualification that’s recognized in Germany, you’re already on the right track. This could be a degree or vocational qualification earned in Germany or one that’s fully acknowledged by German authorities.
Tips for Immediate Application:
If you’ve completed your education in Germany, you can directly apply for a residence permit for jobseekers under Section 20 of the Residence Act. This permit gives you up to 18 months to find a job and allows part-time work during this period.
Option 2: Points System
For those who do not have a qualification recognized in Germany, the points system comes into play. To be eligible under this system, you need to score at least six points based on various criteria.
1. Equivalence of Qualification
You get four points if your foreign qualification is partially equivalent to German standards. This holds even if you need additional measures to fully qualify for a profession in Germany.
2. Qualification in a Shortage Occupation
One point is awarded if your qualification is in an occupation currently in short supply in Germany.
3. Professional Experience
Professional experience adds up too. Two points for at least two years within the last five years, and three points for five years within the last seven years.
4. Language Skills
Language proficiency is crucial. One point for German at A2, two points at B1, and three points at B2 or higher. English at C1 or being a native speaker gives an extra point.
5. Age:
Age matters as well. Two points if you’re 35 or younger, and one point if you’re between 35 and 40.
6. Previous Stays in Germany:
One point if you’ve lived legally in Germany for at least six months in the past five years, excluding tourism or short visits.
7. Skilled Worker Potential of Spouses or Partners:
If your partner also meets the opportunity card criteria, you get an additional point.
Germany Job seeker visa V/S Opportunity card
With a Germany Job Seeker Visa, one is only allowed to search for a job. To begin working, it is necessary to apply for a Germany work visa. Comparatively, the Opportunity Card in Germany enables both job search and work in the country. Considering this aspect alone, the Opportunity Card is a more preferable option. Nevertheless, there are other differences between the two that deserve attention.
What are the key Benefits of Germany Opportunity Card
The Germany Opportunity Card (Section 20a of the Residence Act [AufenthG]) offers several significant benefits to non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals seeking employment opportunities in Germany. Here are some key advantages: