Step into Your Career in Germany with the Chancenkarte (Opportunity Card)!

If you want to settle in Germany and continue your career in Europe, the Chancenkarte (Opportunity Card) offers you a significant opportunity in this regard. Introduced as part of Germany’s updated immigration law in 2023, the Chancenkarte is a residence permit system designed to attract skilled workers to the country. Now, let’s take a closer look at the details of this system and what it offers for those who want to immigrate to Germany!

What is the Chancenkarte and Who is it Suitable For?

The Chancenkarte (Opportunity Card) is a residence permit offered to qualified foreign professionals who want to work or search for a job in Germany. This card is designed for individuals coming to Germany for job-seeking purposes, and the application process is divided into two groups:

• Group 1: Individuals with Fully Recognized Professional or Academic Qualifications
  This group includes individuals who have fully recognized professional or academic qualifications in Germany or who have studied in Germany. Individuals in this group are not required to prove German or English language proficiency or collect points. Additionally, those who have studied in Germany can receive an 18-month Opportunity Card and are allowed to work part-time.
• Group 2: Individuals with Partially Recognized or Unrecognized Qualifications in Germany
  This group includes individuals whose professional or academic qualifications are only partially or not recognized in Germany. Individuals in this group must score a minimum of six points from the criteria specified in the point system and have at least A1 level German or B2 level English language proficiency.

What is the Point System?

The Chancenkarte, which offers the opportunity to work and live in Germany, uses a point system to support the application process of qualified immigrants. Here are the point criteria:

Basic Requirements

• Language Proficiency: You must have at least A1 level German or B2 level English proficiency.
• Education: A minimum of two years of vocational training (in accordance with the rules of your home country) is required.
• Financial Security: You must have sufficient financial resources. This can be proven with a part-time job contract of up to 20 hours per week.

4-Point Criteria

• Recognition of Professional Degree: If your foreign professional degree is partially recognized or you have a permit to practice a regulated profession (e.g., teacher, nurse, engineer), you will receive 4 points. This criterion is met by a small number of applicants.

3-Point Criteria

• Work Experience: If you have five years of professional experience in a traditional profession within the last seven years and have completed two years of vocational training according to the rules of your home country, you will earn 3 points.
• Language Proficiency: Alternatively, if you have B2 level German proficiency, you can also earn 3 points.

2-Point Criteria

• Work Experience: If you have at least two years of work experience and vocational training in the last five years, you will earn 2 points.
• Age: If you are under 35, you will earn 2 points.
• Language Proficiency: If you have B1 level German proficiency, you will earn 2 points.

1-Point Criteria

• Age: Applicants under 40 years old earn 1 point.
• Experience in Germany: If you have stayed in Germany for at least six months (excluding tourist stays), you will earn 1 point.
• English Proficiency: If you have C1 level English proficiency, you will earn 1 point.
• Applying with Your Spouse: If you apply for the Opportunity Card with your spouse, you will earn 1 point.
• Critical Occupations: If you have completed vocational training in a profession with a workforce shortage, you will also earn 1 point.

Applicants who accumulate at least 6 points from this point system can gain the opportunity to work and live in Germany.

Life in Germany and the Job Search Process with the Chancenkarte

The Chancenkarte gives you the right to reside in Germany for one year and search for a job during this time. While staying in Germany, you get the chance to find your dream job. If you secure a job within this period, your card can be converted into a work permit, allowing you to work permanently in Germany. This is a great opportunity for both professional and personal development!

How Can You Manage This Process?

This is where Kaplan Horizons comes into play! Our company guides you through your Chancenkarte application process and supports you at every step of your journey to settling in Germany. Our expert team assists you in everything from determining the best route to come to Germany to preparing your application documents. You can contact Kaplan Horizons to learn more details about the points system and check whether your university degree is recognized in Germany.

Why Germany and Why Now?

Germany, with its strong economy, high living standards, and vast career opportunities, is one of the most attractive countries to work in globally. The Chancenkarte is a significant step Germany has taken to meet its need for skilled labor and offers you an easy way to navigate this process.

If you dream of a new life in Germany, the Chancenkarte could be the opportunity you’re looking for. At Kaplan Horizons, we are happy to guide you on this journey and help you take the first step toward a new life in Germany. Shape your future now and contact us!