Moving to Germany just got a little easier with a new points-based visa

If you’ve ever said that you wish you could live in Europe, Germany may be about to extend an invite (or call your bluff). The German Ministry is planning on creating an “opportunity card,” known locally as a chancenkarte, with a points-based system that would make it easier for qualified applicants to live and work in Germany.

This new immigration law, designed to bring more skilled workers into the country, will be presented to the government this coming fall. The German Ministry of Labour has shared its plan to take action on the labor shortage that has left the country with 1.74 million vacant positions.

Those interested in relocating to Germany will need to meet at least 3 out of the 4 requirements: have a degree, 3 years of professional experience, German language skills or a previous stay in Germany, and be 35 years old or younger.

There will be a set yearly quota issued on the number of skilled workers allowed in the country. As of today, non-citizens must have a job before relocating, but with this new opportunity card, people can come and look for a job or internship while in the country instead of applying from their home base. However, applicants must prove that they’re able to pay for their accommodations and expenses while job searching.

The exact details of the plan will be shared in the fall but in the meantime, it couldn’t hurt to brush up on your German.