Germany has launched the “Chancenkarte” or “Opportunity Card,” a new residence permit designed to attract skilled workers from non-EU countries. This card, introduced on 01 June 2024 is a key component of Germany’s strategy to address labor shortages in various sectors, including IT, healthcare, and hospitality.
The Opportunity Card offers a points-based system that allows qualified workers to enter Germany for up to one year to seek employment. To apply, candidates must meet a minimum of six (06) points across several categories: education and training, professional experience, language skills, age, prior time spent in Germany, and joint applications with a spouse. For instance, applicants receive four (04) points if their foreign qualifications are recognized as partially equivalent in Germany, and two (02) to three (03) points for recent professional experience relevant to their qualifications.
Language proficiency is also a significant factor, with points awarded for both German and English skills. Younger applicants and those with prior legal residency in Germany gain additional points. A comprehensive points calculator is available online to help applicants determine their eligibility and streamline the application process.
Applicants must prove their qualifications, show they can financially support themselves (at least €1,027 per month), and demonstrate language skills. The application can be submitted online or at a German consulate or embassy in the applicant’s home country. The card permits holders to work part-time for up to 20 hours per week and undertake job trials to enhance their employment prospects.
If cardholders secure a job during their stay, they can apply for a longer-term residence permit. There are also provisions for extending the Opportunity Card by an additional year under certain circumstances.
In conjunction with the launch of the Opportunity Card, Germany has introduced new regulations for unskilled workers from the West Balkan states, including Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Montenegro, and Serbia. These regulations allow up to 25,000 unskilled workers annually to enter Germany if they have a job contract lined up, with plans to increase this number to 50,000 next year.
The Opportunity Card is a significant step in Germany’s effort to attract foreign talent and fill the gaps in its workforce, ensuring economic stability and growth in the coming years.