The card is valid for one year and generally not extendable unless you secure a job, in which case you can switch to a work-related residence permit. Check with the local Foreigners’ Authority for options.

Register your residence at the local Bürgeramt within two weeks of arrival, then actively search for a job. Once employed, apply for a longer residence permit at the Ausländerbehörde.

Yes, you can work part-time up to 20 hours per week or do trial jobs for up to 2 weeks per employer while searching for full-time employment.

The application fee is €75, payable in local currency at the embassy/consulate. It’s non-refundable, even if the application is rejected.

Processing can take several weeks to six months, depending on the embassy’s workload and document verification. Apply early to account for delays.

Provide evidence of €12,324 in a blocked account, a part-time job contract in Germany, or a sponsor’s declaration (Verpflichtungserklärung).

You need a valid passport, application form (VIDEX), 2 biometric photos, proof of qualifications, language certificates (A1 German or B2 English), financial proof (€12,324), health insurance, and a CV.

Check eligibility online, gather documents, submit your application at a German embassy/consulate or online via the Consular Services Portal, book an appointment, pay the €75 fee, and await processing.

Yes, if your qualifications aren’t fully recognized in Germany, you need at least 6 points based on education, work experience, language skills, and age. Check the self-assessment tool for details.

Skilled workers with a recognized university degree or at least two years of vocational training, plus A1 German or B2 English skills, and financial proof of €12,324 annually (or €1,027/month) can apply.

The Opportunity Card is a residence permit for non-EU skilled workers to stay in Germany for up to one year to search for a job, allowing part-time work (up to 20 hours/week) or trial jobs (up to 2 weeks per employer).