Germany has introduced a new way to attract skilled workers from other countries
Germany is seeking more skilled workers and has introduced a new way for qualified foreign nationals to move to the country. Called the Opportunity Card, it allows non-EU citizens to come to Germany for a year in order to search for a job.
The Opportunity Card acts like a temporary visa or work permit, allowing non-EU citizens to live in the country for up to one year.
During this period, cardholders are allowed to take on part-time jobs amounting to no more than 20 hours per week or undertake trial work experiences lasting two weeks.
The purpose is to make it easier for skilled workers to find suitable employment and for companies in need of employees to find foreign workers to fill the roles.
If a cardholder wishes to transition to a full-time job, they can apply for longer-term residency - a process made easier because the applicant already has a job offer.