South Africans Can Move to Germany for a Year to Seek Work Under Opportunity Card Scheme
- Germany's Opportunity Card allows skilled workers from outside the EU to enter the country and search for jobs for up to one year
- South Africans can qualify through a recognised qualification or by scoring at least six points in a structured points system
- Applicants must show they can support themselves financially, with a minimum of €1,091 (R20 220,05) net per month required
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Germany has made it easier for skilled workers from countries outside the European Union, including South Africa, to explore job opportunities on the ground without needing an employment offer first.
The scheme, known as the Opportunity Card, is governed by Section 20a of Germany's Residence Act. It allows qualifying individuals to live in Germany for up to one year while actively searching for work. During that time, card holders may also take on part-time work for up to 20 hours a week and complete trial work placements of up to two weeks per employer.
Two ways to qualify
There are two routes to obtaining the card. The first applies to applicants whose foreign qualification has been fully recognised in Germany. These individuals are classified as skilled workers and can apply directly without going through any additional assessment.
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The second route uses a points system, designed for those whose qualifications have not yet been formally recognised in Germany. To qualify, applicants must score at least six points across several criteria, which include the level of equivalence of their qualification, experience in a shortage occupation, years of professional experience, language proficiency in German or English, age, previous stays in Germany, and whether a spouse or partner also meets the card's requirements.
For example, applicants aged 35 or younger earn two points, while those between 35 and 40 receive one point. Demonstrating at least two years of professional experience within the last five years adds another two points, and strong German language skills at B2 level or above contribute three points.
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Financial requirements and next steps
Regardless of which route applicants choose, all must prove they have sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay. This can be demonstrated through a blocked bank account holding at least €1,091 (R20 220,05) net per month, based on the 2026 figure, or through a formal declaration of commitment.
Once in Germany, those who secure a job or apprenticeship can apply to convert their Opportunity Card into a residence permit for qualified employment or vocational training. If the role qualifies but no other permit applies, the card can be extended by up to two years.
South Africans interested in applying can use the self-check tool on the Make it in Germany website to assess their eligibility before submitting an application through the Consular Services Portal of the Federal Foreign Office.
Read the full information here.
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Source: Briefly News
