Starting from June 2024, Germany will be implementing the ‘Opportunity Card’ program, which aims to assist Africans and other individuals possessing the necessary qualifications and skills in their pursuit of employment opportunities within the country.
This initiative is a response to the skilled labour shortage facing the country, with forecasts from the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action indicating a potential shortfall of 16 million workers by 2060 due to demographic changes.
This will allow qualified job seekers from Africa and other part of the world to live in Germany and look for work.
The Opportunity Card will simplify the process for candidates to secure jobs in Germany. It allows individuals to work in Germany without undergoing a lengthy recognition process. A minimum of two years of vocational training or a university degree is required, as well as proficiency in German (A1) or English (B2).
This Opportunity Card is available for Africans who receive full recognition of their overseas qualifications and are therefore considered as “skilled workers”. The individuals can therefore obtain an opportunity card without any further special requirements, and they will not be required to produce proof of a permanent job contract.
All other applicants must provide evidence of a foreign university degree, a vocational qualification of at least two years’ duration (in each case recognised by the state in the country of training) or a vocational qualification issued by a German Chamber of Commerce Abroad.
About the Opportunity Card
Opportunity cards are granted for a duration of up to one year, on the condition that the cardholder is capable of sustaining themselves throughout this timeframe. This card enables the holder to engage in work trials or pursue additional employment for a maximum of 20 hours per week while residing in Germany.
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If an individual is unable to acquire a different resident title due to work-related circumstances but has received a valid job offer, the opportunity card can be extended for an additional two-year period.
How They Can Be Eligible For This Permit
To be eligible, applicants must provide evidence of their university degree, a vocational qualification of at least two years’ duration (in each case recognized by the state in the country of training), or a vocational qualification issued by a German Chamber of Commerce Abroad.
In addition, a basic knowledge of German (level A1 CEFR) or English (level B2 CEFR) is required.
When these requirements are met, points are awarded for criteria such as recognition of qualifications in Germany, language skills, professional experience, age, links to Germany, and the potential of accompanying partners or spouses. Applicants must score a minimum of six points to receive an opportunity card.
When Does the Application Start?
Africans can apply for the opportunity card starting from 01 June 2024 at the local Foreigners’ Registration Office or the relevant German mission abroad in your country of origin.
To apply, Africans and other skilled applicants need to prepare essential documents such as their passports and proof of your qualifications and language skills. Applications are submitted to the competent German mission abroad (e.g., the German Embassy or Consulate).
Benefits Of Germany’s Opportunity Card For Africans
One of the key advantages of the Opportunity Card is its flexibility. it empowers foreign nationals to make informed career decisions, pursue growth opportunities, and contribute to Germany’s thriving economy. Specifically, German officials and employers anticipate that the Opportunity Card will allow German employers to hire highly skilled African and other foreign national workers.
It opens a larger talent pool of applicants who are qualified professionals. The revamped legal framework will simplify the entry process for those seeking employment in Germany. With this procedure, employers no longer need to go through pre-approvals with the Federal Employment Agency, streamlining the hiring process and allowing applicants to enter the workforce more quickly. Overall, the Opportunity Card allows employers to access a broader talent pool and facilitate a more efficient hiring process.
What You Should Know
The opportunity card presents a remarkable chance for African professionals who aspire to broaden their career prospects in Germany. It provides a practical method for job hunting in Germany, allowing individuals to work part-time or participate in trial employment.
Given Germany’s dedication to bridging its skilled labor shortage, the opportunity card could serve as your entryway to a fulfilling professional voyage in one of Europe’s most vibrant economies.
