Germany has launched a new program called the Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) to help skilled individuals from countries like Pakistan move to Germany to seek employment or start self-employment—without needing a prior job offer. This card essentially acts as a residence permit, allowing non-EU citizens to stay in Germany for up to one year while searching for a job.
Who Can Apply for Germany Opportunity Card
Applicants have to qualify with either an established qualification in Germany, or have to have a points score of six based on the German points-based system. This system takes into account such factors as education, work experience, language proficiency, age and the prior stay in Germany. The applicants should also demonstrate that they have enough funds and legitimate health insurance.
How the Germany Opportunity Card Works
Holders of the Opportunity Card can:
- Apply for full-time or part-time jobs in Germany.
- Work up to 20 hours per week in secondary employment.
- Participate in job trials lasting up to two weeks with potential employers.
Unlike traditional work visas, no formal job offer is needed before applying. Applicants only need to prove their qualifications and language skills.
Where to Apply for Germany Opportunity Card
Applications can be submitted online via the Federal Foreign Office’s Consular Services Portal:
https://digital.diplo.de/chancenkarte
Germany Opportunity Card Points System for Eligibility
Applicants need at least six points based on:
- Qualification Equivalence (4 points): Pakistani qualifications partially matching German standards.
- Shortage Occupation (1 point): If the applicant’s field is in high demand.
- Professional Experience (2–3 points): 2 points for 2+ years in the last 5 years, 3 points for 5+ years in the last 7 years.
- Language Skills (1–3 points): German A1 = 1, B1 = 2, B2+ = 3; C1 English or native speakers may gain extra points.
- Age & Previous Germany Stay (1–2 points): Under 35 = 2 points, prior legal stay of 6+ months = 1 point.
- Joint Applications (1 point): Couples applying together may earn an additional point.
Germany Opportunity Card Financial Requirements
Applicants are to prove that they will be able to sustain themselves in the process of their staying. This usually requires presentation of a blocked account (Sperrkonto) where the account is at least 13,092 to meet living standards.
The Opportunity Card offers the skilled Pakistanis an avenue to explore the world of employment in Germany and acquire international work experience in a more relaxed and low-risk manner without the worry of already having a pre-destined job.
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