Germany has introduced the Opportunity Card, a new visa scheme aimed at tackling its acute labor shortage. This card will enable skilled workers from countries outside the European Union to immigrate to Germany without needing a job offer beforehand. Once in Germany, these workers will have the opportunity to reside in the country for up to a year while actively searching for employment. The scheme, known as the Chancenkarte in German, officially came into effect on Saturday, June 1, 2024.
Germany’s Interior Minister, Nancy Faeser, announced the initiative, highlighting its significance for the country’s economic stability. The Opportunity Card is a component of a comprehensive legislative package aimed at addressing the skilled labor shortage affecting various sectors of the German economy.
“We are ensuring that workers and skilled workers that our economy has urgently needed for years can come to our country,” Interior Minister Nancy Faeser said on Saturday as reported by DW.
Qualifications for Germany’s Opportunity Card
Applicants for the Opportunity Card must meet specific criteria to qualify, including possessing at least two years of vocational training or holding a recognized university degree. Additionally, candidates must exhibit proficiency in either German or English.
The selection process operates on a points-based system, assessing applicants based on language proficiency, professional experience, age, and their ties to Germany. To qualify, applicants must accrue a minimum of six points. Those interested can access further details and submit their applications online.
Can Kenyans beenefit from Germany Opportunity Card?
Yes. Many Kenyans have been pursuing job opportunities abroad, but unfortunately, some have fallen victim to scammers who promised to secure jobs for them in Germany. Previously, Kenyans needed to have a job offer before they could immigrate to Germany. However, with the introduction of the Opportunity Card, this requirement has been eliminated.
Now, individuals granted an Opportunity Card can enter Germany and search for employment for up to one year. During this period, they are permitted to work part-time or in trial positions for up to 20 hours per week. This flexibility allows applicants to sustain themselves financially while actively seeking full-time employment abroad.
