Germany raises Opportunity Card language points and clarifies job-search rules
What changed
Germany has updated its official Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) guidance. The Opportunity Card remains available through two routes: Recognised skilled worker route: applicants with a German qualification or a foreign qualification fully recognised in Germany do not need to use the points system. Points route: applicants with a foreign qualification that is not fully recognised must meet the qualification and language requirements and score at least 6 points. For the points route, German language skills above A1 now directly add points: A2 German: 1 point B1 German: 2 points B2 or higher German: 3 points English C1 or higher, or native English: 1 additional point The maximum available for language is therefore 4 points. The guidance also clarifies what Opportunity Card holders can do after entering Germany: the card is primarily for job searching or qualification measures. Holders can work up to 20 hours per week while searching. Once they find suitable qualified employment or another qualifying pathway, they must normally switch to the appropriate residence permit.
The detail
Policy history
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