Germany faces a significant shortage of skilled professionals in key sectors like engineering, IT, and healthcare. To address this, Germany has made changes to its skilled worker visa rules and launched the 'Opportunity Card' initiative.

 

What is the Opportunity Card?

Starting from June 1, 2024, the Opportunity Card allows non-European Union (EU) citizens to move to Germany for a year to look for jobs. This new visa system is part of Germany's plan to attract about 400,000 skilled workers to fill gaps in critical industries.

 Berlin cityscape at sunset - Brandenburg Gate Berlin cityscape at sunset - Brandenburg Gate germany stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images
source: istock

Eligibility Requirements

To get the Opportunity Card, applicants must meet these criteria:

 

  1. Education: At least two years of vocational training or a relevant university degree from their home country.
  2. Language Skills: Must be proficient in German or English.
  3. Financial Stability: Must show they have enough money to support themselves in Germany for a year, including income from part-time work, totaling over 12,000 Euros.

 

Extended Residence Permit

First-time recipients of the Opportunity Card can now stay for 24 months instead of the previous 18 months. This permit can be extended for another 12 months, allowing a total residency of up to three years. Additionally, the allowance for secondary employment has increased from 10 to 20 hours per week, making it easier for skilled workers to find jobs.

 A young happy tourist or student girl with a German flag at the old town or Altstadt in Munster with church belfry in background. Studying language abroad and traveling concept A young happy tourist or student girl with a German flag at the old town or Altstadt in Munster with church belfry in background. Studying language abroad and traveling concept germany study stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images
source: istock

Simplified Qualification Recognition

Germany has made it simpler to recognize foreign qualifications with the new Skilled Immigration Act, introducing two new pathways:

 

  1. Skills Analysis: For qualifications needing a skills assessment, individuals can get a residence permit for up to six months to complete this evaluation. They must show proficiency in German at level A2 or higher (CEFR).
  2. General Recognition: An easier process for recognizing other qualifications.

 

Benefits for Family Members

Germany has also made it easier for family members of skilled workers to move with them:

  • No Space Requirement: Spouses or minor children no longer need to prove they have enough living space when joining skilled workers.