Apply: Nigerians eligible as Germany announces new visa option… here’s all to know

Following a labour force shortage, Germany has further opened its doors by easing visa rules to allow foreign workers to enter the country.

Germany announced the launch of an online portal for citizens of other countries including Nigeria seeking to relocate and work in the country as part of its strategy to address the labour shortage with skilled foreign workers. This announcement was made on June 1st, 2024, on Germany’s Federal Foreign Office Consular Services Portal.

Here’s all you need to know

The German government has launched a portal for Nigerians to apply for an Opportunity Card, which offers skilled Nigerians the chance to relocate and work in Germany.

The Opportunity Card is designed to attract skilled workers from non-European Union (EU) countries, including Nigeria. It serves as a residence permit that allows individuals from third countries—nations outside the EU—to enter Germany to seek employment.

The card is valid for up to one year and can be extended if the individual finds qualified employment, allowing them to obtain a subsequent residence permit for further job searching or employment.

Applicants are not required to secure a job before applying but are expected to find one upon arriving in Germany.

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Here’s how to apply for the Opportunity Card:

Applicants must have their professional qualifications recognized in Germany or their country of origin and demonstrate financial self-sufficiency, typically with €1,027 per month, shown via a blocked account or a declaration of commitment. While searching for jobs, Opportunity Card holders can work part-time for up to 20 hours per week and participate in trial jobs for up to two weeks to evaluate potential employment.

Eligibility

The Opportunity Card operates on a points-based system with the following requirements:

• Completion of a degree or at least two years of training recognized by the state of issuance.
• German language proficiency at least at level A1 or English proficiency at level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
• Adequate financial capacity to cater for living expenses for the duration of the stay in Germany.

Guidance for Nigerian Applicants

Nigerians interested in getting the Opportunity Card should visit Germany’s diplomatic missions in Nigeria for visa applications.

The requires applying at the German mission responsible for the applicant’s district of residence.

Applicants can visit the German mission’s website for more information.