An opportunity card is to be introduced to enable jobseekers to stay in Germany to look for employment.

If you have the necessary qualifications and skills, you might look into legal work opportunities in Germany. From June 2024, an ‘opportunity card’ will be introduced by the government of Germany to allow skilled job seekers to stay in Germany and look for work.

Foreigners who receive full recognition of their overseas qualifications and considered ‘skilled workers’ can obtain an opportunity card without any further special requirements. They will not be required to produce proof of a permanent job contract.

All other applicants must provide evidence of a foreign university degree, a vocational qualification of at least two years’ duration (in each case recognised by the state in the country of training) or a vocational qualification issued by a German Chamber of Commerce Abroad. All other applicants must provide evidence of a foreign university degree, a vocational qualification of at least two years’ duration (in each case recognised by the state in the country of training) or a vocational qualification issued by a German Chamber of Commerce Abroad.

In addition, a basic knowledge of German (level A1 CEFR) or English (level B2 CEFR) is required.

If these requirements are met, points are awarded for criteria such as recognition of qualifications in Germany, language skills, professional experience, age, links to Germany, and the potential of accompanying partners or spouses. Applicants must score a minimum of six points to receive an opportunity card.

Opportunity cards are issued for a maximum of one year, provided that the holder can support themselves for that period. It allows the holder to do work trials or take up secondary employment for a maximum of 20 hours per week during their stay in Germany.

If an applicant is unable to get another resident title for work reasons but has been offered eligible employment, the opportunity card can be extended for another two years.

The Opportunity Card makes it easier for candidates to get jobs in Germany. It allows applicants to work in Germany without undergoing a long recognition process. A minimum of two years of vocational training or a university degree is required, as well as proficiency in German (A1) or English (B2).