Germany needs qualified specialists and offers various options for foreign workers to work and live in the country legally. Two of the most important ways are Opportunity map and the EU Blue Card. Both make it easier for skilled workers from abroad to find a job in Germany or to enter the country directly with an employment contract.
1. opportunity card - points system for job search
The Opportunity map was introduced in 2024 and is aimed at qualified specialists from Non-EU countrieswhich no permanent job in Germany yet but would like to work in Germany. It is based on a Points systemthat takes various qualifications and experiences into account.
Requirements for the opportunity card
To receive the opportunity card, applicants must at least 6 points in the points system. Points are awarded for the following criteria:
- Professional qualification (e.g. a recognized vocational training or a university degree)
- Professional experience (at least 2 years)
- Language skills (German to at least A1 or English to B2)
- Age (under 35 years gives more points)
- Previous stays in Germany (e.g. study, training or work stay)
- Shortage occupation (if the profession is in high demand in Germany)
Advantages of the opportunity card
- Entry to Germany for 1 year Job search
- Work up to 20 hours per week already permitted during the job search
- Flexible job search - not limited to a specific industry
Restrictions
- You have to actively look for a job themselves
- The opportunity card applies only for 1 yearbut can be extended if you find a job
2nd EU Blue Card - Visa for highly qualified specialists
The Blue Card is a residence permit for Highly qualified specialistswhich already have a concrete job offer in Germany. It was introduced to attract skilled workers with a university degree from third countries to Germany.
Requirements for the Blue Card
- A completed university degree (recognized in Germany)
- An employment contract or a binding job offer in Germany
- A minimum salary of €45,300 gross per year (as of 2024)
- For shortage occupations (e.g. IT, engineering, medicine, natural sciences), a lower annual salary of approx. 41,000 € gross
Advantages of the Blue Card
- Fast-track residence permit for up to 4 years
- Settlement permit (permanent right of residence) after just 33 months possible
- Family reunification: Spouses may join without language skills and work directly
- Switching within the EU: The Blue Card can also be used in many other EU countries
Restrictions
- You have to already have a job in Germanybefore you can apply for the Blue Card
- Applies only for academic professions with a minimum salary
3. differences between opportunity card and Blue Card
| Criterion | Opportunity map | EU Blue Card |
| Target group | Job seekers with professional experience or training | Highly qualified with a permanent job offer |
| Job offer required | No | Yes |
| Validity | 1 year ( extendable ) | Up to 4 years |
| Minimum walk | No minimum salary | 45,300€/ 41,000€ for shortage occupations |
| Branch office | After at least 3 years of work | After just 33 months (or 21 months with B1 German language skills) |
| Working while looking for a job | Yes, up to 20 hours/week | No, job must be there beforehand |
| Applies to which professions | Almost all professions with qualifications | Academic professions only |
