How to Secure Employment in Germany with the New Chancenkarte Visa
How to Secure Employment in Germany with the New Chancenkarte Visa
On June 1, 2024, Germany will launch its new Chancenkarte visa system, allowing non-EU migrants to move to the country without a job sponsor and search for work. Here's what you need to know about this new visa and how to find long-term employment in Germany using the Chancenkarte.
What is the German Chancenkarte (Opportunity Card)?
The Chancenkarte visa, part of Germany's new skilled worker immigration law, enables non-EU citizens to move to Germany for one year and work part-time while seeking long-term employment or vocational training. Previously, non-EU citizens needed a concrete job offer to move to Germany.
Basic Requirements for the Chancenkarte
While Germany has a high demand for workers, the Chancenkarte targets "skilled" foreign workers. Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- German language skills at A1 or English language skills at B2
- A completed university degree or two years of officially recognized vocational training
- Proof of financial stability
- Accumulation of at least six Chancenkarte points
How Chancenkarte Points Are Awarded
If you meet all of the above-mentioned requirements, it could be worth applying for a Chancenkarte. However, since the system is points-based, you also need to collect a total of six points, based on your more personalised experience and qualifications, to be eligible. These points are distributed as follows:
- Four Points: Partially recognized foreign professional qualification or a recognized qualification for regulated professions in Germany.
- Three Points: Two years of professional training and five years of experience (in the last seven years), or B2 level German language skills.
- Two Points: Two years of vocational training and two years of experience (in the last five years), under 35 years of age, or B1 level German language skills.
- One Point: 35-40 years of age, a previous stay in Germany for six months or longer, C1 level English proficiency, A2 level German skills, qualifications in high-demand sectors, or applying with a spouse.
Financial Requirements
Applicants must prove financial stability, which can be shown through a work contract or a savings bank statement. As of January 2023, new arrivals need €12,324 in a blocked bank account to prove financial means.
Part-Time Work and the Chancenkarte Job Board
Applicants can find part-time jobs via the Chancenkarte job board to support their stay. These jobs can range from bakery work to administrative roles, but applicants should have additional savings as the minimum wage might not cover all living expenses.
Applying for a German Opportunity Card
Eligible applicants can apply for the Chancenkarte through the German embassy or consulate in their country of residence or via the Foreigners’ Office (Ausländerbehörde) if already in Germany. The application process can take several weeks to months.
Finding Long-Term Work in Germany with the Chancenkarte
With the Chancenkarte, holders can work part-time and participate in unlimited two-week trial jobs during their year-long stay, aiming to secure long-term employment. If long-term employment is not found within a year, the visa can be extended for one or two more years, allowing continued job searching.