The German government has approved changes to the workforce from outside the EU. Learn more about the new Chancenkarte work visa for highly skilled workers in Germany

Order a checklist - step-by-step instructions for moving to Germany and obtaining a visa

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 by Julia Dikaya • ongoing writer in VisitWorld

The German Cabinet of Ministers is actively working on reforming the country's migration legislation. The reforms are aimed at attracting highly qualified workers from outside the EU. The changes are mainly focused on employees with vocational and technical education, but the rules will be relaxed for the rest of the employees with higher education.

The shortage of highly qualified workers is planned to be overcome by the introduction of the "Chancenkarte" visa - a special permit to look for work in Germany.

Read more about the new German migration law and the Chancenkarte visa in our material.

Read more about the types of work visas in Germany and how to get one here.

Find out how to obtain a work permit in Germany in 2023 for Ukrainians here.

Chancenkarte – a map of opportunities for highly qualified employees

Citizens of non-EU countries will in the future be able to apply for a special job-seeking permit in Germany on the Chancenkarte - provided they have enough points. The scoring system will take into account qualifications, professional experience, age, knowledge of the German language and ties to Germany.

Read more about healthcare in Germany for foreigners, insurance and medical tourism here.

How will Chancenkarte work?

The new entry permit for highly qualified workers will allow foreigners to enter the country, live and look for work in their specialty. During this period, it will be possible to work at any job, but up to 20 hours a week. The visa can be issued for up to one year, but cannot be extended if the job search turns out to be futile.

Paragraph 24 for refugees: eligibility for a residence permit for asylum seekers in Germany - details here.

Requirements for Chancenkarte candidates

In order to apply for a Chancenkarte, a foreigner must meet certain requirements:

- Have a sufficient level of German (B1) or be fluent in English (C1).

- Have proof of financial independence.

- Having a professional qualification or a scientific degree, which requires at least two years of training or study.

How to get a residence permit in Germany - step-by-step instructions.

Get legal advice from a local specialist in Germany to resolve your current issues

What are the points for?

- Language knowledge - up to 2 points.

- Age - up to 3 points.

- Qualification and experience - up to 7 points.

- Connection with Germany - up to 2 points.

You must score at least 6 out of 14 to receive the Opportunity Map.

Currently, most non-EU nationals must receive a job offer before they can move to Germany. The jobseeker visa already exists, but the Chancenkarte is planned to make it easier and faster for people to find a job in Germany.

Chancenkarte is expected to be operational by the end of 2023.

Reasons for reforming Germany's migration policy

Germany, like many other European countries, experiences an acute shortage of highly qualified workers. In 2022, the number of vacant positions across the country was 1.74 million. The lack of personnel affected many German companies and led to a slowdown in their work.

It is possible to increase the number of employees by attracting highly qualified workers from outside the EU, but currently bureaucratic complications significantly slow down these processes. The German government is currently dealing with the resolution of this issue.

What major changes in Germany's immigration policy were approved?

1. The new system will make it easier for professionals with relevant experience, rather than education, to find a job and move to Germany.

2. Easing the procedure for recognition of professional qualifications and work experience of a foreign employee.

3. Chancenkarte (Opportunity Card) is a new employment visa in Germany for highly qualified workers.

4. Ease of relocation rules for those with a job offer.

5. Simplified conditions for obtaining a permanent residence permit and simplification of moving with the family.

What are the sectors in which there is a shortage of specialists in Germany?

Germany is looking for workers in many fields, including skilled craftsmen, electrical engineers, IT specialists, carers, nurses, catering and hospitality workers and more. Many retailers and construction companies also reported staff shortages. The country also lacks doctors, scientists, metallurgists and builders.

Find out all about the rules for obtaining a work visa, its types and the documents required here.

Products from Visit World for a comfortable trip:

Checklist for obtaining a visa and necessary documents in Germany;

Legal advice on business in Germany;

Travel insurance for foreigners in Germany;

Medical insurance all over the world;

Legal advice on immigration in Germany;

Insurance for foreign students in Germany.

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