Since June 2024, the so-called Chancenkarte (Opportunity Card) has been operating in Germany, which provides qualified specialists with the opportunity to obtain a residence permit for the purpose of finding a job. Learn more about the features and conditions for obtaining a Chancenkarte visa in Germany

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The “Opportunity Card” according to § 20 a, b of the Residence Act is a residence permit (Aufenthaltserlaubnis) for skilled workers. To obtain this document, you need to score at least 6 points according to various criteria, such as professional qualifications, work experience, language skills and age. 

The Opportunity Card can be obtained for a period of up to one year. In case of loss of employment and residence permit, this document can be a temporary solution. If certain conditions are met, it can be extended for up to two years. The main advantage of the Opportunity Card is that it does not require an employment contract or job offer. Currently, the largest number of applications come from citizens of Turkey, Poland and Croatia.

Simplified migration scheme for skilled workers in Germany

To participate in the Chancenkarte program, applicants must have at least two years of vocational training or a university degree recognized in the country of origin. In addition, foreigners must be fluent in German or English. Candidates will be evaluated on the basis of language skills, professional experience, age, and ties to Germany. To receive a Chancenkarte, you need to score at least six points.

With a Chancenkarte, a foreigner can enter Germany to look for work for up to one year, working up to 20 hours per week. The main difference of this scheme is that now non-EU residents wishing to work in Germany do not have to present a contract with a German company before obtaining an entry permit.

Starting June 1, the rules for entering Germany for job seekers from the Western Balkans will be simplified. The quota for workers from this region is being increased from 25,000 to 50,000, and they no longer need proof of professional qualifications to access the German labor market. However, people from the Western Balkans still need a contract with a German company to enter Germany.

The new visa scheme is part of a package of laws aimed at overcoming the shortage of skilled labor in Germany.

For safe relocation to any country in the world, obtaining citizenship and employment, take the advice of an international lawyer. We help to solve complex and simple issues for your comfort and safety in any part of the world. 

Chancenkarte - a map of opportunities for highly skilled workers

The new entry permit for highly skilled workers will allow foreigners to enter the country, live and look for work in their specialty. During this period, they will be able to work in any position, but for up to 20 hours per week. The visa can be issued for a period of up to one year, but cannot be extended if the job search proves to be unsuccessful.

To apply for a Chancenkarte, a foreigner must meet certain requirements:

1. Have a sufficient level of German language (B1) or fluency in English (C1);

2. Have proof of financial independence;

3. Confirm the existence of a professional qualification or academic degree that requires at least two years of training or study.

What are the points awarded for?

1. Knowledge of the language - up to 2 points;

2. Age - up to 3 points;

3. Qualifications and experience - up to 7 points;

4. Connection with Germany - up to 2 points. 

To receive the Opportunity Map, you need to score at least 6 points out of 14.

Igor Usyk - Head of Legal Department at Visit World

For safe relocation to Germany, obtaining refugee status and employment, use the advice of an international lawyer.

We help to solve complex and simple issues for your comfort and safety in Germany.

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