Berlin, June 1, 2024 — Germany.
On June 1, 2024, the remaining provisions of Germany’s amended Skilled Immigration Act (Fachkräfteeinwanderungsgesetz) officially took effect, including the rollout of the Chancenkarte (Opportunity Card). This is a new type of residence permit for non-EU nationals coming to Germany to look for work.
Structure of the Chancenkarte
According to Germany’s Federal Ministry of the Interior (BMI), the Chancenkarte can be granted through two routes. First, people who already qualify as skilled workers under the German Residence Act (holding a German university degree, German vocational qualification, or a recognized equivalent foreign qualification) can receive the Chancenkarte without additional conditions.
Second, those who do not fall into the group above can obtain the Chancenkarte through a points system, requiring a minimum of 6 points. Basic requirements include at least two years of vocational training or a university degree, plus German proficiency at A1 level or English at B2 level.
Benefits and Duration
The Chancenkarte is valid for up to 12 months. While job-hunting, holders are permitted to work part-time and take trial jobs. If the job search leads to an eligible position that does not yet fully meet the criteria for a work permit, the card can be extended for up to two years, with approval from the Federal Employment Agency.
Once they receive a suitable job offer, Chancenkarte holders can switch to a standard German work permit or an EU Blue Card without having to leave Germany.
Policy Background
Interior Minister Nancy Faeser stated that the Chancenkarte’s criteria include language proficiency, qualifications and experience. The goal is to help experienced, high-potential people come to Germany and find work faster, at a time when the German economy needs more skilled workers.
On the same date, June 1, 2024, Germany also doubled the labour quota under the Western Balkans Regulation, from 25,000 to 50,000 approvals. Information on requirements and procedures is published by Germany’s Federal Ministry of the Interior on its official website.
References
This article is compiled from government sources. Immigration regulations and figures may change over time; you should check current information on the official website before making a decision.
