Job Search Opportunity Card
Germany • Work Visa
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Match Score
The Job Search Opportunity Card allows non-EU/EEA nationals to enter Germany to search for employment. Applicants must meet certain qualification and financial requirements. It provides limited work rights and can be extended upon securing employment.
Requirements
- ✓Must be from a non-EU/EEA or Swiss country
- ✓Full recognition of a foreign vocational or academic qualification in Germany OR score a minimum of 6 points in the Opportunity Card point system (criteria is based on qualification recognition, work experience, shortage occupation status, language proficiency, age, previous stays in Germany, and spouse's qualifications).
Benefits
- ★Allows job searching in Germany for up to one year
- ★Permits part-time work up to 20 hours per week
- ★Allows job trials for a maximum of two weeks per employer
- ★Possibility of extending for up to two years if employment is found
Cost Breakdown
Application Fee:€75
Processing Fee:
Total Estimated:€75
Timeline
Processing Time
Validity Period
Up to one year, with possible extension for two years upon employment
Application Process
- 1Determine eligibility via the self-check tool
- 2Gather necessary documents, including proof of qualification and finances
- 3Submit application to the relevant diplomatic mission or foreigners authority
- 4Await processing and approval
- 5Upon approval, travel to Germany and begin job search
Required Documents
- 📄Passport or travel document
- 📄Visa application form
- 📄Proof of qualification recognition OR proof of meeting points system criteria
- 📄Proof of language proficiency (German A1 minimum or English B2 minimum)
- 📄Proof of financial resources (€1,091 per month in 2025 via blocked account or declaration of commitment)
- 📄Proof of full recognition of foreign vocational or academic qualification in Germany OR Proof of having obtained a vocational or academic qualification in Germany
- 📄Proof of at least two years of vocational or academic training
- 📄Recognition result from the Central Office for Foreign Education (ZAB), if applicable
- 📄Proof of qualification in a shortage occupation (if applicable)
- 📄Proof of professional experience (minimum two years in the last five years or five years in the last seven years)
- 📄Additional language certificates (if higher than German A1 or English B2)
- 📄Proof of age eligibility (for those under 40)
- 📄Evidence of previous legal stays in Germany (if applicable)
- 📄Proof of spouse or life partner's skilled worker potential (if applicable)