Why apply for the Germany Opportunity Card?

• Get direct entry to Germany with NO job offer
• Pathway for a simplified and easy job search process in Germany
• Gain access to over 1.8 million job opportunities across different sectors
• Score 6 points in the points-based system
• Increased chances of obtaining a work permit

What is Germany Opportunity Card?

The Germany Opportunity Card is an efficient pathway for skilled non-EU workers to enter Germany and seek employment opportunities. Through the Germany Opportunity Card, skilled professionals from non-EU countries can access the German job market and explore a wide range of job opportunities across industries. The Opportunity Card is valid for 12 months, allowing skilled workers to look for employment in Germany with the flexibility of working part-time for up to 20 hours a week. The Germany Opportunity Card is the perfect option for those looking to live and work in Germany.
 

Eligibility Criteria for Germany Opportunity Card

Eligibility for the Germany Opportunity Card is assessed based on a points system. Candidates must score at least six points to be eligible for the Opportunity Card.

Given below are the eligibility criteria for a Germany Opportunity Card:

• Education: At least 2 years of a university degree program or a vocational degree that is recognized in their home country and Germany
• Work Experience: A minimum of 2 years of professional work experience relevant to your job role and qualifications
• Language proficiency Skills: German or English language proficiency
• Age:  18-40 years of age
• Connection to Germany: Any previous stay in Germany for a minimum of 6 months or more (Tourist stays are not applicable)
• Proof of funds: € 12,324

Germany Opportunity Card Documentations Requirements

You must fulfill the below requirements to apply for a Germany opportunity Card:

• Educational Qualifications: The higher the academic qualifications, the better chances of earning more points
• Work Experience: A minimum of 5 years of professional work experience can score you three points
• Age: 3 points are given for those under 35 years of age and 1 point for those aged 36-39
• Proof of funds: Demonstrate funds worth EUR 12,324 by submitting bank account details or through a part-time job contract in Germany
• Language proficiency: C1 level in English or A2 level in German can get you more points, while 1-3 points are given to those with B1 to C2 in German
   

Language	Levels of proficiency
German tests	A1 (understand simple German sentences)
	A2 (basic knowledge)
	B1 (intermediate)
	B2 (good Intermediate)
	C1 (advanced knowledge)
	C2 (excellent knowledge / mother-tongue level)
English tests	TOEFL
	IELTS
	Cambridge Certificate

 

The following are the documents required to apply for the Germany Opportunity Card:

• Educational documents and proof of qualification
• Proof of relevant work experience
• Proof of financial resources to support their stay in Germany.
• Health Insurance details
• Police clearance certificate

How to apply for the German Opportunity Card?

You can apply for the Germany Opportunity Card online or in person.

Steps to Apply for the Opportunity Card Online

The steps to apply for a Germany Opportunity Card online is as follows:

Step 1: Check if you have secured the required points using the points-based system

Step 2: Arrange the documentation as per the checklist 

Step 3: Fill out the online application form with the required details

Step 4: Submit the application with the documentation

Step 5: Visit the nearest German consulate to further complete the process.
 

Steps to Apply for the Opportunity Card in Person

The steps to apply for a Germany Opportunity Card in person are as follows:

Step 1: Check your eligibility using a points-based system

Step 2: Schedule an appointment at the nearest German embassy

Step 3: Complete the visa application

Step 4: Gather the documents required

Step 5: Attend the visa interview and wait for the status

 

Germany Opportunity Card Fees

You must pay an application fee of €75 for the Germany Opportunity Card.  

Germany Opportunity Card Processing Time

The processing time for a Germany Opportunity Card usually takes around 4 to 6 months. Applicants must apply well in advance to avoid processing delays.
 

How to calculate Opportunity Card Points in Germany?

You must score at least 6 points on the points calculator to be eligible for the Germany Opportunity Card.

The points-based system considers the factors listed below:

• Educational qualifications
• Work Experience
• Language proficiency
• Age

Factors	Maximum Points
Partial recognition of educational qualifications	4 points
5 years of Work Experience or B2 level proficiency in German	3 points
2 years of Work Experience after receiving vocational training or B1 level proficiency in German	2 points
Age (below 35 years)	2 points
Age (35- 40 years)	1 point
Previous visit or stay in Germany	1 point

 

Below is a detailed breakdown of how to calculate Opportunity Card points in Germany:

• A maximum of four points are allotted to candidates with partial recognition of a foreign professional qualification or those with permission to practice a regulated profession
• Candidates with 5 years of work experience in the last 7 years and 2 years of professional training are allotted a maximum of 3 points.
• Candidates with B2-level German language skills can get 3 points.
• A maximum of 2 points are allotted to candidates with a minimum of two years of professional work experience in the last 5 years, along with vocational training 
• Candidates under 35 can earn two points, while those with B1-level German language skills can get two points.
• Candidates who are above 40 years of age and have previously stayed in Germany for at least 6 months are allotted of 1 point.
• 1 point is allotted to candidates with C1 English language skills or A2-level German language skills.
   

Job Seeker Visa vs. Chancenkarte

Factors	Germany Opportunity Card	Germany Job Seeker Visa
Minimum Qualifications	Professional qualification and at least 2 years of work experience	Vocational training or a Degree recognized by Germany
Required language level	IELTS or A1 level in German or B2 level in English	Not Mandatory
Visa duration	12 months	6 months
Visa extension	Can be extended for 24 months	No Extension
Required funds	€ 12,324	€ 5,604
Cap	Not applicable	Not Applicable
Paid work permitted	Yes, for up to 20 hours/week	No

How can Y-Axis help you?

As the leading visa and overseas immigration consultant in the UAE, Y-Axis has been providing unbiased and personalized immigration assistance for more than 25 years. Our team of immigration and visa experts will assist you with the complete German immigration process. We can assist you with the following:

• Free eligibility check via the Germany Immigration Points Calculator
• Complete guidance with Germany Immigration
• Expert guidance for Germany Employment Visa
• Free Career Consultation: Book your slot today
• Job Search Services to find lucrative jobs in Germany
• Sign up with Y-Axis to access a world of career opportunities in Germany.