Hello, I'm currently in Germany with an Opportunity Card. I'm interested in taking an intensive German language course to improve my skills. Does anyone know if it's possible to change my Opportunity Card status to a visa that would allow me to do this? Any information on the process, required documents, or potential challenges would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you so much for your answer!
Do you know if it is possible to extend the Chancenkarte? In my visa application I asked for 6 months only, because those where the only economic resources available at that time, but I would like to extend it for more 6 months.
Hello @Aleja--bu ,
there are two different types of Chancenkarte, I am answering assuming you have the Chancenkarte according to §20a residency law, please correct me if I am wrong.
In general, it can be extended for up to 12months, but only if you have enough economic resources. So, this could be an option if you can cover your livelihood. It can also be extended for up to 2years but then you would need a concrete job offer for a qualified job.
I recommend reading more on the “Chancenkarte” here: https://handbookgermany.de/en/opportunity-card
I also want to add to my initial answer, since you mentioned you want to change to a visa that would allow you to take an intensive German course.
In general visas are only issued at German embassies aboard. But I think you meant switching to a residency, right?
As I understood, you currently have the visa for the Opportunity card for 6months. Have you already applied to receive you residency for the opportunity card (plastic card)?
The general procedure to receive a residency (plastic card) is that you apply to the local immigration office for the residency. Maybe you have already done this as well.
Let me know if any other questions come up. I will get back to you also with a bit more details on switching the residency.
Best wishes.
Hello @Aleja--bu , thank you for reaching out.
In general, the requirement for the intensive German language residency is that you have an admission to a course that is at least 18hours a week. Another important requirement is that you can cover your livelihood, in the form of a block account. You can find you the exact requirements for the immigration office in Berlin.
https://service.berlin.de/dienstleistung/324289/en/
In general, the residence is then only valid until you finish your German course. As far as I know, it is not possible to switch from the language course residence back to the Chancenkarte, but I will double check this.
Please note with the Chancenkarte you have the right to work for 20hours a week. It is also generally possible to do an intensive German course while having the Chancenkarte.
This might be an option for you.
I will do some more research if the switch is possible in general and if there are other things you will have to look out for. You can also always seek out a migration counselling centre near you.
https://bamf-navi.bamf.de/en/Themen/Migrationsberatung/
If any other community member has made experience switching from Chancenkarte to Language Course, feel free to comment here.
More information on the Chancenkarte can be found on our website
Let me know if any other questions come up in the meantime.
Best wishes