The second and newly-announced Highly Skilled Work Visa in Germany, also know as the Opportunity Card in Germany, offers a pathway for skilled workers from non-EU countries to enter Germany for job seeking purposes, even without a specific job offer or university degree.
MOBILITY ASSSET SNAPSHOT
The Opportunity Card program in Germany provides a chance for skilled workers from non-EU countries to live in Germany for up to one year while searching for employment. This program is designed to attract talented individuals who can contribute to Germany's economy and fill skill gaps in various sectors.
Overview
A pathway to job seeking and potential employment for skilled workers in Germany
Eligibility Requirements
Individuals with vocational training or a university degree, two years experience, and B2 level German or English language skills. Proven training plus two years experience
Anchor Ancestor restrictions
Months to citizenship
Length of Visa
1 year, with possibility of extension
Months to Visa
2-3 months
Physical Presence Requirement
Must reside in Germany during the job search period
Availability
Moderate
Family Allowance
Spouse and children
Overview
Submit application at the German embassy or consulate in your country of residence, or at the local Foreigners' Registration Office if already present in Germany.
Questions?
Find answers to common questions about GlobalPassport™ and our services.
How is the points-based system for the Opportunity Card calculated?
Can I bring my family members with me on an Opportunity Card?
Do I need a job offer to apply for the Opportunity Card?
Can I work while holding the Opportunity Card?
Can Opportunity Card holders apply for permanent residency in Germany?
benefits
The program offers numerous advantages for skilled workers looking to establish their career in Germany's dynamic and innovative environment.
Access to EU's largest economy
Strong job market for skilled workers
High quality of life
Low cost of application
Long term program (compared to other Skilled Worker Visas)
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Online Submission Allowed
Visa-Free Travel Countries
161
Passport Validity
10 years, 6 years for those under 24
Overview
Germany offers excellent career opportunities, high quality of life, and a supportive environment for skilled professionals.
Benefits:
Advantages:
Questions?
Find answers to common questions about GlobalPassport™ and our services.
How is the points-based system for the Opportunity Card calculated?
Can I bring my family members with me on an Opportunity Card?
Do I need a job offer to apply for the Opportunity Card?
Can I work while holding the Opportunity Card?
Can Opportunity Card holders apply for permanent residency in Germany?
REQUIREMENTS
Check if you qualify based on your family history
PROCESS
Initial Assessment
• Verify qualification requirements
• Check salary thresholds
• Review work experience criteria
Employer Sponsorship
• Secure qualifying job offer
• Obtain employer sponsorship
• Complete labor market test (if required)
Documentation
• Gather qualification certificates
• Prepare employment contract
• Complete skills assessment
• Obtain professional registrations
Application
• Submit visa application
• Complete health checks
• Provide biometrics
Relocation
• Receive work visa approval
• Register with authorities
• Complete workplace onboarding
PROCESS
DOCUMENTS
Passport+Biometrics
Applicant's Birth Certificate+Marriage certificate and birth certificates of dependents (if applicable)
Not applicable
Not applicable
Applicant must prove to have sufficient financial support to support the entire stay in the country
DOCUMENTS
Birth certificates from government archives; Marriage certificates for family dependencies; Police clearance records from current and past residences
Certified translations into official language(s); Apostille certification; Government-issued document legalization
Diploma and transcript verification; Professional certification authentication; Credential evaluation services
Initial application submission fee; Processing and handling charges; Administrative review fees
Fingerprint collection fee; Digital photograph requirements; Biometric data processing
Required medical examinations; Vaccination verification; Health certificate processing
Document verification fees; Background check processing; Application status updates
Consulate visit expenses; Interview travel costs; Temporary accommodation (if required)
Language proficiency testing; Skills assessment fees; Additional document requests
Immigration lawyer consultation; Document review services; Legal representation fees
Tax planning consultation; Asset transfer advisory; Investment planning services
Relocation services; Property search assistance; Settlement support services
Residency card processing; Passport issuance fees; Registration certificates
Oath ceremony fees; Registration charges; Local authority fees
Renewal fees; Status maintenance costs; Annual reporting fees
Rankings
104
Overall Rank
Cost
Based on application fee
Residency Requirements
Based on residency requirements
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Residency Privileges Length
Based on programs’s term
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Processing Speed
Based on estimated processing time
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Eligibility Requirements
Based on entry requirements
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Program Stability
Based on years of activity
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Time to Permanent Residency
Based on permanent residency timeline
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Rankings
Safety
20
Cost of Living
21
Quality of Life
9
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Healthcare Quality
20
Internet Speed
57
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Human Freedom
21
IMMIGRATION PROGRAMS
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