Under the system established by the German authorities, applicants can earn points based on specific criteria:
- Four points are awarded to individuals holding professional qualifications recognized in Germany and those authorized to practice regulated professions such as nursing, engineering, and teaching.
- Three points are given to applicants with five years of professional experience and at least two years of prior professional training, as well as those with German language skills at the B2 level.
- Two points are allocated to those with professional experience and vocational training within the last five years. Applicants under 35 at the time of application and those with German language skills at the B1 level also receive two points.
- One point is awarded to individuals under 40 who have lived in Germany for at least six months (excluding tourist stays). Additionally, one point is given for English language proficiency at the C1 level, German language proficiency at the A2 level, and to those who have completed vocational training or hold a university degree in fields experiencing labor shortages.
The Opportunity Card offers several key advantages:
- It simplifies the complex entry procedures that have previously hindered the immigration of qualified workers to Germany.
- It allows non-EU citizens to stay in Germany for up to a year to search for a suitable job.
- During this period, holders of the Opportunity Card can take unlimited part-time or trial jobs of up to 20 hours per week. Once they find a suitable job, their stay can be extended, enabling them to pursue full-time employment.
- Upon securing full-time employment, Opportunity Card holders can then apply for a different residence title.