•Simple and Fast Entry into Germany
With the Opportunity Card, you don’t need a permanent employment contract before coming to Germany. Instead, you qualify through a points-based system by showing your skills, work experience, and/or language proficiency.
This simplifies the process—no complicated approval steps. The card allows you to stay in Germany for up to one year to search for a job.
You’re permitted to work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) or take part in two-week trial jobs, helping you get to know potential employers and find a position that fits your qualifications.
•Pathway to Permanent Residence
While the Opportunity Card grants you an initial one-year stay to find work, it opens the door for a longer future in Germany.
You can work part-time (up to 20 hours/week) and take trial jobs freely during this period. Once you secure a suitable job, you can apply to extend your stay through the local Foreigners’ Registration Office.
Whether you switch to a full-time or stay in part-time employment, a written agreement or contract from your employer will be essential for your application for a longer-term residence permit.
•Earn and Support Yourself
The Opportunity Card lets you work part-time at the current minimum wage or higher (minimum €12.82 gross/hour as of Jan 2025).
With 20 hours of work per week, you can earn over €1,000 gross per month.
Moving to a full-time position can significantly increase your earnings. Your exact income potential depends on the sector and your skills, but the Opportunity Card ensures you can support yourself independently during your job search.
•Guaranteed Work Permit
Previously, non-EU citizens needed a job offer and visa approval before entering Germany for work.
With the Opportunity Card, you can enter Germany without a job offer if you meet the basic requirements:
- At least two years of vocational training or a university degree recognized in your home country.
- Language skills: German at A1 level or English at B2 level.
- Proof of financial resources to cover your stay (often achievable through part-time work).
This new system gives you the freedom to explore job opportunities directly within Germany.
•Strong Prospects for a Qualified Job
During your stay with the Opportunity Card, you can participate in multiple trial jobs (each lasting up to two weeks) and part-time work.
If you secure employment, you can move into a qualified part-time or full-time job.
To continue living in Germany, you’ll need to switch your residence title by applying through the Foreigners’ Registration Office with a confirmed job offer or contract.
This transition is straightforward once you meet the necessary employment conditions.