Germany has introduced the Opportunity Card in order to attract highly skilled professionals from around the globe. This new visa enables people to stay in Germany for up to one year while searching for employment and working part-time. If you are interested in moving to Germany and exploring job options there, then this guide is the right tool to assist you through each step of all the complexities entailed in a Germany Opportunity Card application
What is a Germany Opportunity Card?
Germany Opportunity Card is a type of Visa (Residence Permit) intended for the employment of skilled manpower in the country. The Opportunity Card lets you enter Germany without a job offer and look out for a suitable job for yourself for up to 12 months, unlike a regular work visa.
The Main Benefits of the Germany Opportunity Card
- Stay in Germany for one year.
- Work part-time 20 hours a week while job hunting.
- No previous job offer is required.
- Open to professionals who have vocational or academic qualifications.
Eligibility Criteria for the Germany Opportunity Card
Before applying, ensure you meet the following requirements:
- Academic Qualification
A degree of professional training for no less than two years from an accredited university or institution.
You may need to undergo an equivalence assessment if the qualification is not recognized in Germany.
- Proof of Financial Means
Proof of enough funds for your sustenance (around 1,027 Euros monthly or proof for a blocked account).
- Language Proficiency
Elementary German (A1) OR good proficiency in English (B2).
- Point-Based System
At least six points must be scored based on:
- Education and qualification.
- Work experience.
- Language proficiency.
- Age preference, i.e., up to 35.
- Ties with Germany, such as previous travel or ties with family, etc.
How to Get an Opportunity Card in Germany?
Step 1: Become Eligible for Visa.
Access the points calculator and determine whether you qualify for the Opportunity Card. Of course, there are six minimum points now.
Step 2: Document Collection.
Submit the following documents:
- Original passport.
- A recognized degree or vocational training certificate.
- Evidence of language knowledge- Level A1 in German or Level B2 in English.
- Proof of funds (such as fixed account or sponsorship).
- Health insurance coverage letter.
- Curriculum vitae and optional cover letter.
Step 3: Submit it Online at the German Embassy/Consulate.
Go to the German consulate application’s website to begin the process. Choose the Opportunity Card and fill out the application form. Then, upload the document in scanned form.
Step 4: Book Appointment & Submit Your Application.
- Make an appointment at the German Embassy or Consulate in your home country.
- Insert your documents and pay the visa fees in person.
Step 5: Wait for Visa Processing.
The visa processing time can take from 4 to 8 weeks, after which you receive a national visa D to enter Germany.
Step 6: Travel to Germany and Get Things Sorted.
If you have already received your vacation residency authorization from the German embassy, immediately travel to Germany and register your address within 14 days of your arrival.
How to Make a Successful Germany Simplified Application?
- Check your documents twice before sending them in.
- Learn basic German for better job opportunities.
- Network with employers before arrival in Germany.
- Use job portals such as LinkedIn, StepStone, and the Federal Employment Agency (BA) website.
Final Thoughts
Skillful job seekers can use the Germany Opportunity Card to find various strong career opportunities in Germany. This step-by-step guide explains how the process works, by following which one can promptly apply for the Germany Opportunity Card to start this career journey with Germany again.
Need Help with Your Germany Opportunity Card Application?
At Abhinav Immigration Services, we specialize in German work visas and immigration. Our experts can guide you through the entire process, from eligibility checks to document preparation and application submission.
