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General FAQs

(Opportunity Card)

1. If I don't receive the visa (Visa got rejected), the deposited amount will be returned to me.?

Yes, by showing proof of visa rejection from Embassy.

2. If someone has a university and degree recognized as equivalent in the Anabin database, do they still need recognition from ZAP, or is it enough for the visa application to rely on the Anabin database?

Ans:

No need to recognize it from ZAP, it is enough for the visa application by using Anabin Database Page as a proof that your degree or targeted program is recognized in Germany.

3. If someone is already living legally in another European country, should they find a job online before moving to Germany, or can they move without a job? We're a bit confused. Are there significant advantages to moving to Germany first and applying for jobs from there?

Ans:

For a Pakistani national already living legally in another European country, it is generally better to find a job online before moving to Germany. Having a job offer can simplify the visa process and ensure financial stability. Moving to Germany without a job can be risky and may complicate the visa process. It is advisable to secure employment before relocating.

4. Is IELTS still required if we have an English proficiency certificate from a European university for our master's degree? We're Pakistani students currently studying in another European country. Does this mean we don't need to take the IELTS?

Ans:

Pakistani students already studying their master's in another European country, having an English proficiency certificate from their European university can often exempt them from taking the IELTS for admission to other European universities. However, this depends on the specific requirements of the institution to which they are applying. It's best to check directly with the university or program for their specific language proficiency requirements.

5. All job applications are online anyway. So, if we apply online even after coming to Germany, what is the main benefit of the Opportunity Card apart from part-time work?

Ans:

The main benefit of the Opportunity Card, besides allowing for part-time work, is that it provides a legal pathway to stay in Germany while actively searching for a job. Being in Germany can also offer several advantages:

Networking Opportunities: Being physically present in Germany allows you to attend job fairs, networking events, and interviews in person, which can significantly increase your chances of landing a job.

Faster Response Time: Employers may prefer candidates who are already in Germany because they can start working sooner without the delays associated with international relocation.

Local Experience: While you search for a full-time job, you can gain local work experience through part-time jobs, internships, or volunteer positions, which can enhance your resume and make you more attractive to employers.

Better Understanding of the Job Market: Being in Germany allows you to better understand the local job market, work culture, and expectations, which can help you tailor your applications more effectively.

Immediate Availability for Interviews: You can attend interviews on short notice, which can be an advantage over candidates who need to schedule and plan international travel.

In summary, the Opportunity Card not only allows you to work part-time but also provides a strategic advantage by being physically present in Germany, enhancing your job search and networking opportunities.

6. Is PTE (Pearson Test of English) accepted instead of IELTS for German visa application either for job seeker or study?

Yes, PTE is accepted instead of IELTS for German Study visa applications, sometimes including for job seeker visas but for the most cases they require only IELTS.

However, it's important to confirm with the specific institution or visa authority to ensure that PTE scores meet their requirements.

Also, please note that the official requirement for the Opportunity Card is a B2 level of English proficiency. While PTE is accepted in Germany for student visas, there is no explicit information from the German government regarding the use of PTE for the Opportunity Card. You will need to wait for an official notice from the embassy for clarification.

7. Is it Academic IELTS or General IELTS B2?

Scoring system: https://takeielts.britishcouncil.org/teach-ielts/test-information/ielts-scores-explained

General: for Work

Academic : For study

The minimum English language requirement for the German Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) is B2, but it doesn't specify whether Academic or General IELTS is required.

8. I have obtained my master's degree from Germany and am currently employed at a company in my homeland. Since you mentioned bachelor's degrees, I wanted to inquire about the recognition process for master's degrees as well. Additionally, I am below the age of 35. Should I still proceed with this recognition?

Ans:

If you have completed a master's degree in Germany, you can apply for your visa based on your master's degree without the need for recognition in your case. Simply utilize your German degree for your visa application.

9. I am eligible for the visa. Could you please inform me about the next steps? How can I schedule an appointment with the German embassy Islamabad/Consulate Karachi?

Ans:

visa appointments in Islamabad and Karachi, you can visit the official website of the German Embassy in Pakistan. There, you will find information on how to book an appointment for visa application submission. However, I have explained in detail above about the appointment.

10. Which Category Should I apply for Visa at Islamabad Embassy/ Karachi Consulate?

Ans:

The Job Seeker Visa and Opportunity Card are essentially the same. Those scoring more than 6 points can apply for the Opportunity Card, which is essentially a job seeker visa but tailored for skilled workers.

11. Would it be a good decision for a Professional Qualified in Pakistan to come to Germany with a Chancenkarte visa?

As a Professional Qualified person from Pakistan, coming to Germany with a Chancenkarte visa could be a good decision if you are seeking opportunities in your field. The Chancenkarte visa is specifically designed to attract skilled workers like yourself, offering the opportunity to find employment and settle in Germany. However, it's essential to research job prospects in your field, understand the visa requirements, and assess your qualifications against German standards before deciding. Additionally, consider factors such as language proficiency and cultural adaptation to ensure a smooth transition to life and work in Germany.

12. If our degree is fully recognized in Germany, is it enough?

YES, just take a print of Anabin database that shows your degree is recognized in Germany.

13. Can we utilize an English proficiency letter from the university?

Ans: No

14. They do not require IELTS; they only request B2 level English proficiency. So, will any B2 level English certificate suffice or not?

Ans:

For Chance Card visa applications from Pakistan, if the requirement is B2 level English proficiency, any certificate demonstrating B2 level English proficiency should suffice. However, it's always advisable to check the specific requirements outlined by the German embassy or consulate in Pakistan.

15. Are the degrees displayed under the university option in the ABC section the only ones accepted by that university? Or do we need to check the degree option to see if the degree corresponds or is conditionally comparable?

Ans:

The degrees displayed when you click on your university are the ones that are acceptable.

For Pakistani students checking the Anabin database in Germany, if the degree is listed under the university option, it should be acceptable. Otherwise, you have to apply for recognition.

16. Is Pakistan's four-year bachelor's degree equivalent to a three-year bachelor's degree in Germany?

Ans:

Yes, typically, Pakistan's four-year bachelor's degree is considered equivalent to a three-year bachelor's degree in Germany.

17. If my degree is not recognized in the Anabin database, do I need to send copies or original documents for the further recognition process?

Ans:

Yes, you typically need to provide authenticated copies of your original documents for the recognition process.

18. If we need to send documents to Germany for recognition, they usually need to be translated into German before sending them or not?

Ans:

You can send the documents in English; there's no need for translation. However, if your documents are in a language other than English, you'll need to translate them into English/German before sending.

19. Without meeting the financial requirements, one cannot apply for a job seeker visa/opportunity card.

Ans:

Without meeting the financial requirements, you cannot apply for a job seeker visa or opportunity card.

20. Those who don't have sufficient funds for a blocked account still apply if all other documents are complete for Opportunity Card visa application?

Ans:

Then you apply for a part-time job (or odd job) in any field in Germany and if you get a job contract, you can use that job contract as financial means.

21. A two-year BSc and a two-year MSc degree are recognized or not in Germany.?

Ans:

Generally, two years bachelor’s degree and Two years master’s degree is not recognized in Germany.

To determine if your two-year BSc and two-year MSc degrees are recognized, you can check the Anabin database or contact the relevant authorities for verification.

22. My university is not listed in Anabin Database, what should I do?

Ans:

You must recognize it. If your university is not listed in the Anabin database, you should consider contacting the relevant authorities or seeking guidance from a qualified advisor to explore alternative options for recognition.

23. I have a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering without work experience (fresh graduate) and a German A1 certificate. Am I eligible to apply?

Ans:

Yes, you are also eligible to apply because you have secured the minimum 6 points out of 14 points.

24: Do we apply with a PTE score to meet language eligibility?

Ans:

PTE is not widely recognized and accepted everywhere. It's advisable to have additional certification in German language, like IELTS. Also note that PTE is acceptable for lots of universities in Germany.