Discover how to apply for the German green card in 2023. Are you ready to embark on a life-changing journey in Germany by applying for the German Green Card, known as the Chancenkarte, in 2023? If your answer is a resounding ‘yes,’ you’re in the right place. This year brings an extraordinary opportunity for those who dream of living and working in one of Europe’s economic powerhouses.
In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the ins and outs of applying for the German Green Card in 2023. It’s a golden opportunity that you simply can’t afford to miss. So, let’s dive in and explore the path to your dreams. Don’t let this chance slip through your fingers – your journey to Germany starts now!
Germany, known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and a thriving economy, is throwing open its doors even wider. The brand-new points-based immigration program is all about welcoming international talent with open arms. But here’s the kicker: it’s not replacing the existing routes; it’s an addition, which means more opportunities to call Germany home! The main reason for this is because Germany is experiencing a shortage of labor in many sectors and thus needs laborers to work and fill the void
With it, you can come to Germany and embark on a year-long job search adventure, with the option to extend for another year. The best part? You can work part-time and explore short-term trial positions while you chase that dream job in your field.
How to apply for the German green card: Requirements to qualify
The eligibility requirements include:
- Have a university degree or complete a professional training program of at least two years at an accredited institution
- Show that you can cover your living expenses during your stay
- Showcase your language skills–either a level A1 in German or level B2 in English will do the trick
If you meet these basic requirements, you can use a points system to check the qualifications you need. You must achieve at least six points to be allowed to work in Germany.
And here’s the icing on the cake: If you already hold a degree recognized in Germany, you have a higher chance. If not, no worries! There are various criteria you can fulfill to earn the necessary six points. We’ll dive into the nitty-gritty details shortly.
Advantages of the German green card (Chancekarte)
- Easy and Fast Entry into Germany: If you apply for the German green Card, you don’t need a permanent employment contract in advance. You can simply use the points system to prove your existing qualifications, such as language skills or work experience. This eliminates the need for a complicated examination procedure. The Opportunity Card permits you to stay in Germany for one year to look for a suitable job. Part-time or casual jobs of up to 20 hours a week are possible, as well as two-week trial jobs. With the Opportunity Card, you can get to know your new employer at your leisure and look for a job that suits you and your qualifications
- Possibility of Permanent Residence: The residence permit with the Opportunity Card is limited to one year as its primary purpose is for you to find a job. In addition to an unlimited number of trial jobs, part-time jobs of up to 20 hours a week are also possible, which can be divided up flexibly. Once you have found a suitable job, it is possible to extend your stay. For this purpose, you must also submit an application to the competent Foreigners’ Registration Office. If you intend to change from part-time to a full-time job, you have a good chance of obtaining a longer residence title. This is also possible if you wish to remain in part-time employment. Written proof, such as an agreement with your employer or a permanent employment contract, is important for extending your stay in Germany.
- Securing Your Livelihood with a Good Income: The German green card Card allows part-time employment on the basis of the minimum wage (or above). This is currently 12.00 euros gross per hour (as of May 2023). With a part-time job (20 hours per week), you can earn above 1000 euros per month. If you want to change to a full-time job, your net income will rise to well over 1000 euros a month. The earning potential depends on the sector you want to work in and your qualifications. With the Opportunity Card, you have a good chance of earning a fair wage so you can easily finance your everyday life in Germany.
- Guaranteed Work Permit: Until now, workers from non-EU countries have needed a visa to enter Germany and work here. This requires an existing job offer as the Federal Employment Agency often has to approve your stay. If you are not a recognized skilled worker, you can come to Germany with the Opportunity Card to look for a job locally. The basic requirement is (at least) two years of vocational training or a university degree according to the rules of your country of origin. In addition, you must have basic knowledge of German (A1) or English (B2) and also be able to prove this. To receive the Opportunity Card, you must also have sufficient financial means to secure your livelihood independently. This is usually possible with a part-time job (up to 20 hours per week).
- Good Chance of a Qualified Part-Time/Full-Time Job: As part of the Opportunity Card, you have the possibility to apply for two-week trial work (an unlimited number of times) or part-time work of up to 20 hours a week. If you find suitable employment during your stay, you have the prospect of a qualified part-time or full-time job. In order to be able to seek a full-time job in the future, you must change your residence title. The Opportunity Card only authorizes you to look for a job in Germany. For a longer stay, you must apply for a corresponding residence title at your local Foreigners’ Registration Office. This should not be a problem if you can show proof of a future job offer or an employment contract.
Points Distribution for the German green card (Chancekarte)
Basic Requirements: Sufficient German language skills at level A1 or English language skills at level B2 as well as at least two years of vocational training according to the rules of the country of origin. You must also have sufficient financial means. Proof of this can be in the form of an employment contract for a part-time job (up to 20 hours per week), for example.
Four points are awarded for partial recognition of a foreign professional qualification or for permission to practice a regulated profession (e.g., teacher, nurse, or engineer). Very few applicants meet these criteria.
criteria.
Three points are awarded for five years of professional experience (in the last seven years) in the learned profession as well as a preceding two years of professional training according to the rules of the country of origin. Alternatively, you receive three points for good German language skills at level B2.
Two points are awarded for two years’ professional experience preceded by vocational training (in the last five years). If you are not older than 35, you also get two points. German language skills at level B1 are also awarded two points.
One point is awarded to applicants who are not over 40 years old and for a previous stay in Germany (at least six months). You must provide documented proof of this. Previous stays as a tourist do not count
One point is also awarded for very good knowledge of English (C1), reasonable knowledge of German (A2), if you had your vocational training/university degree in an area of official labor shortage in Germany, or if you apply for the Opportunity Card together with your spouse.
Conclusion
You can apply for the German green Card at the competent mission abroad in your country of origin or at your local Foreigners’ Registration Office in Germany. Please note that you must meet the following basic requirements: You need two years of vocational training or a university degree according to the rules of your country of origin. You do not have to have your degree specially recognized in Germany! In addition, you must have sufficient knowledge of German (A1) or English (B2) and the financial means to support yourself independently. This can be done by taking on a part-time job, for example, as is permitted under the Opportunity Card.
So, there you have it, apply for the German green card to get a chance to realize your dreams. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity!
Read also: 8 must have documents to get more opportunities in Kenya
