‘Chancenkarte’ or Opportunity Card in Germany
The Chancenkarte, also known as the opportunity card, marks a promising development in Germany’s employment landscape. This legislation, which was enacted in November last year, aims to entice skilled international workers to the country.
Germany is stepping up its efforts to attract highly qualified professionals from outside the European Union. To simplify the process of working in Germany for foreigners, the nation is revamping its immigration regulations. Currently, most non-EU citizens must secure a job offer before relocating to Germany. While citizens of certain countries with visa agreements can enter Germany visa-free, they are typically limited to temporary work. The Chancenkarte seeks to change this status quo.
The Chancenkarte introduces a points-based approach for prospective job seekers. Its objective is to streamline the relocation process to Germany for non-EU citizens. Under this one-year job seeker visa, foreign nationals will gain eligibility for temporary or secondary employment opportunities. It’s worth noting that this bill is still under development and is expected to become effective by the end of 2023.
Why is Germany actively inviting skilled workers from around the globe?
Germany is grappling with an unprecedented labour shortage this year. According to the Institute for Employment Research (IAB), there were 1.74 million job vacancies nationwide in 2022, amounting to an economic setback of approximately 100 billion euros.
A study by the IFO Institute last July revealed that over half of the surveyed businesses were hampered by workforce shortages. Additionally, Germany’s population is dwindling, with an increasing number of elderly citizens and a low birth rate. This demographic shift has created a pressing need for more workers.
What defines a ‘Skilled Worker’?
Skilled workers in Germany fall into two categories:
- Professionally trained workers must have successfully completed an officially recognized professional training program, which should last a minimum of two years according to German law.
- Academically trained skilled workers must hold a degree from a higher education institution. Germany must formally recognize degrees obtained from other countries. Skilled positions are typically restricted to those classified as ‘qualified employment.’
Qualifications for the Opportunity Card:
As per the current information available, there are four qualification criteria for the points-based system, but meeting three of them will grant you the card:
- Possession of a university degree, vocational training, or a professional qualification. The degree should be from an officially recognized institution in Germany. If not, degree credits will need to be converted to the German standard.
- A minimum of three years of professional experience in the applied-for job.
- Language proficiency or prior residency in Germany to demonstrate familiarity with the German language and work culture.
- The age must be 35 years or younger.
It’s important to note that each year, there will be a set quota for the number of workers needed in specific industries.
Industries Affected by Labor Shortages:
The following industries are experiencing shortages, listed in descending order of scarcity:
- The service sector, particularly in lodging and events.
- Warehousing and storage.
- Service providers and manufacturing in food, data processing equipment, machinery, and metal sectors.
- Wholesale.
- Construction firms.
- Retail.
- Chemical and pharmaceutical industry.
- Automotive and mechanical engineering.
Where to Apply for an Opportunity Card?
As of now, the law is not yet in effect. Interested applicants can refer to official sources like ‘Make it in Germany’ for future application details.
The Chancenkarte offers workers the opportunity to enhance their skills and advance their careers in Germany. With well-paying jobs, favourable working conditions, and a family-friendly environment, Germany is an attractive destination. Its high standard of living and affordable, reliable education further add to its appeal. This new legislation will also facilitate the path to German citizenship for many.
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