Germany to Launch Opportunity Card and Raise Work Visa Quota for Western Balkans on June 1
KEY TAKEAWAYS
1. Germany’s third stage of the Skilled Immigration Act will take effect on June 1, 2024.
2. Starting next month, Germany will double the number of work visas issued to Western Balkan nationals.
3. Germany will also introduce a new Opportunity Card on June 1.
On June 1, 2024, Germany’s third stage of the Skilled Immigration Act will come into effect, bringing several changes to benefit foreigners seeking work in the country.
The two major changes include the introduction of a new Opportunity Card and an increased number of work visas issued under the Western Balkans Regulation, according to SchengenNews.
Other changes, including some employer obligations, will not be implemented until 2026.
Annual Work Visa Quota for Western Balkans Will Increase to 50,000 on June 1
Starting June 1, Germany will double the annual number of temporary work visas granted under the Western Balkans Regulation to 50,000, up from the current 25,000.
This change will provide nationals of Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia with easier access to Germany’s labor market. Applicants from these countries will not need to prove professional qualifications; they only need preliminary approval from the Federal Employment Agency before applying for a visa.
What About the Opportunity Card? How Will It Work?
Germany’s new Opportunity Card, or Chancenkarte, will be available starting June 1, 2024. It allows nationals of third countries without an employment contract to enter Germany to look for work.
The Opportunity Card simplifies the process for candidates to find jobs in Germany, bypassing lengthy recognition procedures. It operates on a points system, requiring applicants to accumulate at least six points. Eligibility criteria include completing at least two years of vocational training or holding a university degree, and demonstrating proficiency in German or English (A1 or B1 level).
The Opportunity Card allows holders to stay in Germany for up to 12 months to seek employment, with a possible extension of up to two additional years. Cardholders can also take up two-week trial jobs or part-time jobs of up to 20 hours per week.