Germany opens portal for Nigerian workers to apply for jobs

Germany opens portal for Nigerian workers to apply for jobs

The Government of Germany has introduced the ‘Opportunity Card,’ a new initiative aimed at attracting skilled workers from non-European Union (EU) countries, including Nigeria.

This is just as the portal where applicants were asked to apply showed Nigeria as one of the countries of residence of intending applicants.

The Opportunity Card, a type of residence permit, 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, enabling them to obtain a subsequent residence permit for further job searching or employment.

More about the Opportunity Card

To qualify for the Opportunity Card, applicants must have their professional qualifications recognised either in Germany or in the country where they were obtained. Applicants also must demonstrate they can support themselves financially during their stay, typically requiring proof of at least €1,027 per month. This can be shown through a blocked account or a declaration of commitment.

Eligibility Criteria

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).
Sufficient financial means to cover living expenses for the duration of the stay in Germany.

Guidance for Nigerian Applicants

Nigerian applicants are advised to follow up with Germany’s diplomatic missions in Nigeria for visa applications. The process requires applying at the German mission responsible for the applicant’s district of residence. Further information can be found on the website of the relevant German mission.