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Germany Calls, But Delays: Slow Visas Stall Labor Migration
Germany, aiming to attract skilled professionals from abroad, introduced the Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) in June 2024. This initiative allows non-EU citizens to stay in the country for up to one year to seek employment or validate their qualifications. To obtain the card, applicants must score at least 6 points based on various criteria, including education, work experience, and language proficiency.
Evaluation Criteria and Points System
Age
Under 35 years: 2 points
35 to 40 years: 1 point
Language Proficiency
German level B1: 2 points
German level B2 and above: 3 points
Qualification and Experience:
Up to 7 points, depending on education level and professional experience
However, despite these efforts, the visa application process remains slow and complex. Processing times for national visas can range from several working days to several months, creating uncertainty for both job seekers and employers.
Between June and October 2024, approximately 2,500 Opportunity Cards were issued, averaging 550 visas per month. The majority were granted to Indian citizens (780 visas), followed by applicants from China, Turkey, and Pakistan.
SCHENGEN.NEWS
Applicant Requirements
Financial Independence: Applicants must provide proof of funds amounting to at least €12,324 for one year of residence.
Documentation:
- Valid passport
- Proof of residence
- Proof of completed vocational training
- Proof of financial solvency
- Valid health insurance
- Language proficiency certificates
- Proof of job or vocational training search in Germany
Experts emphasize that such delays reduce Germany’s attractiveness to potential migrants. To address this issue, it is recommended to optimize and expedite the visa issuance process while simplifying requirements for applicants.
In the global competition for talent, Germany risks losing potential specialists due to bureaucratic obstacles. Accelerating visa procedures and reducing administrative barriers are key steps to enhancing the country’s appeal in the international labor market.