Germany has introduced the Opportunity Card as a part of its new points-based immigration system. This initiative is designed to attract skilled workers from non-EU countries to fill vacant positions in the economy thus making it easier for them to search for jobs in Germany.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Opportunity Card, applicants must meet several criteria and accumulate points based on:
Age: Preferably under 35 years old.
Qualifications: Must possess a recognized higher education degree or vocational training.
Work Experience: Requires relevant work experience in the applicant’s field of expertise.
Language Skills: Proficiency in German is advantageous; English skills can be beneficial.
Ties to Germany: Points are awarded for previous stays, family connections, or other ties to Germany.
Financial Stability: Applicants must show proof of sufficient funds to support themselves while job hunting in Germany.
Points-Based System
Age: Younger candidates receive more points.
Education: Higher qualifications result in higher points.
Experience: Points increase with relevant work experience.
Language Proficiency: Higher proficiency in German and English adds more points.
Connections: Prior ties to Germany can boost the points score.
The Opportunity Card provides a pathway for foreign professionals to live and work in Germany, helping them integrate into the job market while addressing the country’s labor shortages.