The German government has granted so far this year about 2,360 Opportunity Cards to foreign nationals. This means since the regulation took effect, about 550 people each month have taken advantage of Germany’s new visa option for job seekers.
The Federal Ministry of the Interior shared in response to an inquiry that nearly 2,360 of these visas were granted between June 1 and October 17, a detail reported earlier by Bild. The ministry had expected 10,000 (2,500 applications per month).
India leads with the highest number of Opportunity Card visas issued, with over 780 recipients, followed by significant numbers from China, Turkey, Russia, Tunisia, and Pakistan.
Misbah Khan, a Green Party representative, believes the card could be even more widely used if the application process were less restrictive. She commented that “the current figures highlight how over-regulation, driven by fears of excessive immigration, hinders an effective migration policy.”
Germany should be working more on relaxing the requirements of the opportunity card such as lowering the language proficiency level and funds requirements. This will indeed open the door for more skilled workers from around the world. Showing funds of about 12,000€ seems impossible for skilled workers from countries such as India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and African nations.
The Opportunity Card is intended to attract skilled workers who may not meet all criteria for a traditional work visa. To qualify, applicants must have either a state-recognized vocational qualification of at least two years or a relevant university degree, along with proficiency in German or English.
Points are awarded based on factors like language ability, professional experience, age, and connections to Germany, with additional points given for skills in high-demand fields.
Once granted, the Opportunity Card allows recipients to reside in Germany for up to a year while they search for permanent employment, with a possible two-year extension under certain conditions. The benefits are:
- One-year visa to stay in Germany,
- Part-time employment allowed (up to 20 hours per week) during the waiting time for getting a desired job,
- After finding the qualified job, a skilled worker visa can be attained (conversion automatically possible),
- in some circumstances, the opportunity card can also be extended for up to two years,
- Chances of permanent residency after passing a certain period in Germany on a skilled worker visa.