Germany is hiring… and you don’t need a job offer to get there!
With the Opportunity Card (“Chancenkarte”), candidates from non-EU countries can enter Germany to look for a suitable job. They do not have to show proof of a permanent employment contract. The Opportunity Card is issued to candidates recognised as skilled workers or those who score at least six points using the points system. In addition, their means of support must be guaranteed for the duration of their stay.
The Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) makes it easier for qualified foreign nationals to find employment in Germany. It allows candidates to enter Germany and search for work without first securing a job offer.
To qualify, applicants generally need either a university degree or at least two years of recognised vocational training. They must also demonstrate language proficiency of at least German A1 level or English B2 level. Depending on their qualifications, applicants may need to meet additional points-based criteria. German-recognised skilled workers can qualify without participating in the points system.
The Opportunity Card allows holders to stay in Germany for up to one year while searching for suitable employment. During this period, they may work part-time for up to 20 hours per week to support themselves financially.
In addition, holders may undertake trial employment for up to two weeks at a time with prospective employers. This provides an excellent opportunity to gain practical experience and demonstrate their skills directly to German companies.
The primary objective of the Opportunity Card is to help qualified candidates secure long-term employment in Germany. Once suitable employment is found, applicants may be eligible to transition to a longer-term residence permit or work visa.
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