Germany Introduces New Visa to Attract Skilled Workers

Germany has unveiled a new visa programme aimed at addressing its labour shortage by attracting skilled workers from outside the EU. The Chancenkarte, or "Opportunity Card," launched on June 1st, is designed to streamline the immigration process for non-EU nationals seeking to live and work in Germany.

The new visa operates on a points-based system, assessing applicants based on their qualifications, work experience, and language skills. The German government hopes that the Opportunity Card will make it easier and quicker for qualified individuals to find employment in the country. Successful applicants can reside in Germany for up to a year while looking for work and are also allowed to take up part-time employment during their job search.

To qualify for the Opportunity Card, applicants must meet specific criteria, including holding a recognized professional qualification or academic degree. Points are awarded based on factors such as age, work experience, and proficiency in the German language. Candidates must accumulate at least six points to be eligible and provide proof of sufficient funds to cover living expenses during their job search, set at a minimum of €1,027 per month.

The Chancenkarte is specifically targeted at non-EU nationals, as EU and Swiss citizens already have the right to live and work in Germany without a visa. This new programme aims to attract professionals who have connections to Germany, such as German language skills or previous study at a German institution, offering additional points for these ties.

The Chancenkarte is seen as a proactive measure to support Germany's economic growth by ensuring a steady influx of skilled labour. This new visa provides a unique opportunity for professionals to explore career options in one of Europe’s most robust economies.