5 questions: Living in Germany with the opportunity card

Correct as of: July 9, 2025

1. What motivated you to apply for the opportunity card?
   I had heard a lot about the Opportunity Card. While still in Cameroon, I learned German and began looking for opportunities to work in my desired profession once I reached the B1 level. The Opportunity Card turned out to be a valuable chance for me.

    

2. In which sector and where in Germany would you like to work?
   I am looking for a job in the technical field – more specifically in electrical engineering. I would like to work in North Rhine-Westphalia, but if an opportunity arises in another region, that would be no problem for me either.

    

3. How long did it take you to get the visa?
   I submitted the visa application online in October 2024. After several months without feedback, I contacted the embassy, and they replied at the end of January 2025 with a proposed appointment. Following my visit to the German Embassy in Cameroon, I received my visa in February 2025.

    

4. How has the time from your entry to Germany until now been for you personally? What have you been doing during this time?
   I have settled in well. I moved to Bonn, where I am currently living with a relative. After my arrival, I officially registered my place of residence and signed up as a jobseeker with the local employment agency. I am currently attending a German language course to improve my language skills and applying for job opportunities.

   Editor's note: Steve received counselling from the local Employment Agency in Bonn, which is part of the Federal Employment Agency (BA) and was granted free (state-funded) access to a vocational language course (BSK = Berufssprachkurs). Holders of the opportunity card should always enquire at the employment agency in their place of residence in Germany about the funding opportunities in their region, especially for BSK. You will find information on BSK on the portal as well as on the website of the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF).

    

5. Do you have any advice for other people who would like to come to Germany to look for a job with the opportunity card?
   I would definitely recommend that they learn German. With a decent language level (B2), it is easier to find a job or vocational training. 
   Another point I would like to add is that it is not that easy to get by here as a newcomer. It is not easy for me to find a part-time job or qualified employment. Many employers are not well informed about the opportunity card visa. They think they cannot hire me as I am currently only allowed to work 20 hours a week. 
    

   Editor's note: As long as job seekers are in Germany with the “Opportunity Card” (Section 20a of the Residence Act [AufenthG]), they are allowed to have a part-time job of up to 20 hours per week, as well as take on a trial job for a maximum of 2 weeks. With a binding job offer, it is possible to switch to another residence title (read more about this in the main article).
    

   You also have to consider that many people with the opportunity card first arrive in Germany on their own. And it can take quite a long time to actually find a job.

Thank you very much for your time!