Points System for the Germany Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte)

 The points system for the Germany Opportunity Card is designed to evaluate applicants based on several criteria, allowing them to accumulate points to meet the minimum requirement of  six points  to qualify for the visa. Here's a detailed breakdown of how the points are awarded:

Criteria and points allocation

• Professional Qualification Recognition :
  • 4 points  for partial recognition of a foreign professional qualification or if you hold a qualification in a regulated profession.
• Professional Experience :
  • 3 points  for five years of relevant professional experience within the last seven years, or for having good German language skills at level B2.
  • 2 points  for two years of professional experience in the last five years, or if you have German language skills at level B1, or if you are under 35 years old.
• Language Skills :
  • 3 points  for proficiency in German at level B2 or higher.
  • 2 points  for proficiency in German at level B1.
  • 1 point  for proficiency in German at level A2 or English at level C1.
• Age :
  • 2 points  if you are under 35 years old.
  • 1 point  if you are between 36 and 40 years old.
• Connection to Germany :
  • 1 point  for having lived legally in Germany for at least six months in the past five years (not counting tourist stays).
  • 1 point  if your spouse also meets the requirements for the Opportunity Card.

Summary of Points Criteria

Criteria	Points
Partial recognition of qualifications	4
Five years of relevant experience	3
Good German skills (B2)	3
Two years of relevant experience	2
German skills (B1)	2
Under age 35	2
Two years of experience (last five years)	2
German skills (A2)	1
English skills (C1)	1
Previous stay in Germany	1
Spouse meets requirements	1

To qualify, applicants must strategically combine their qualifications, language skills, and other factors to achieve at least six points. This transparent and structured approach aims to attract skilled workers to Germany while addressing specific labor shortages in various sectors

1

2

3

5

.

[1] https://chancenkarte.com/en/

[2] https://en.life-in-germany.de/chancenkarte-points-system-of-germany/

[3] https://citizenremote.com/visas/german-opportunity-card-chancenkarte/

[4] https://terratern.com/immigration/germany-opportunity-card-calculator/

[5] https://www.expatrio.com/opportunity-card

[6] https://migrando.de/en/blog/residence-permit/chancenkarte-20a-aufenthg/

[7] https://www.sterlinglexicon.com/resources/new-opportunity-card-for-skilled-workers-in-germany

Umrah travel regulations require specific documentation for minors traveling without parents

Saudi Airlines and Umrah travel regulations require specific documentation for minors traveling without parents. Here's a comprehensive guide:

Required Documents

1. Parental Authorization Letter (Affidavit): Signed by both parents, authorizing the grandmother and mature sister to accompany the minor.

2. Birth Certificate: Original or certified copy, verifying the minor's age and relationship with the accompanying adults.

3. Parental ID: Copies of parents' valid passports or national ID cards.

4. Accompanying Adults' ID: Grandmother's and mature sister's valid passports and ID cards.

5. Umrah Visa: Obtain a visa for the minor and accompanying adults.

6. Travel Documents: Valid passports for all travelers.

Parental Authorization Letter (Affidavit) Sample

[Your City, Date]

To Whom It May Concern,

I/We, [Parent's Name], holder of [Parent's Passport Number], hereby authorize our minor daughter, [Minor's Name], to travel with her grandmother, [Grandmother's Name], and sister, [Sister's Name], for Umrah purposes.

We grant permission for them to accompany our daughter and take full responsibility for her well-being during the journey.

Signature: ________________________

Name: __________________________

Date: __________________________

[Get the affidavit attested by a notary public or relevant authorities]

Saudi Airlines Policy

Saudi Airlines requires:

1. Minor Travel Form: Complete and sign the form, available on their website.

2. Parental Authorization Letter: Submit the affidavit.

3. Copy of Parents' Passport: Attach a copy.

Umrah Travel Requirements

1. Umrah Visa: Obtain from the Saudi Embassy/Consulate.

2. Valid Passport: Minimum 8-month validity.

3. Vaccination Certificate: Mandatory for Umrah travelers.

4. Travel Insurance: Recommended.

Additional Tips

1. Verify with Saudi Airlines: Confirm requirements and documentation.

2. Consult Saudi Embassy/Consulate: Ensure compliance with Umrah regulations.

3. Notarize Documents: Authenticate documents to avoid issues.

Timeline

1. Obtain Umrah visa and travel documents.

2. Complete Minor Travel Form and Parental Authorization Letter.

3. Submit documents to Saudi Airlines.

4. Travel on 18th October.

Key Contacts

1. Saudi Airlines: +92 21 111 310 310

2. Saudi Embassy Islamabad: +92 51 260 0841

3. Saudi Consulate Karachi: +92 21 587 3681

Would you like information on:

1. Saudi Airlines minor travel policy?

2. Umrah visa requirements?

3. Travel insurance options?

4. Vaccination requirements?

My aufenthaltstitel is linked with my old passport

To address your concern, follow these steps:

Immediate Action

1. Contact LEA (Local Foreigners' Registration Authority) urgently: Emphasize the impending appointment and request expedited processing.

2. Explain situation to Karachi Consulate: Inform them about the delayed Aufenthaltstitel update and provide your LEA appointment confirmation (if received).

Alternative Solutions

1. Temporary (Provisorische) Aufenthaltstitel: Request LEA to issue a temporary permit, linking your new passport to the existing Aufenthaltstitel.

2. Abmeldung (De-registration) and Neuregistrierung (Re-registration): If possible, deregister from your current address and re-register with your new passport.

Essential Documents

1. Updated Passport: Provide your new passport.

2. Old Passport: Bring your old passport with the existing Aufenthaltstitel.

3. LEA Appointment Confirmation: Show proof of your scheduled appointment.

4. Aufenthaltstitel Update Request

: Submit a written request for updating your Aufenthaltstitel.

5. Marriage Certificate*l: Ensure it's available for verification.

Additional Tips

1. Consulate Coordination: Verify the required documents and processing time with the Karachi Consulate.

2. LEA Documentation: Confirm the necessary documents for updating your Aufenthaltstitel.

3. German Embassy Support: Reach out to the German Embassy in Pakistan for guidance.

Key Contacts

1. LEA (Local Foreigners' Registration Authority)

2. Karachi Consulate: +92 21 587 3681

3. German Embassy Islamabad: +92 51 200 8685

Timeline

1. LEA Appointment: Attend the scheduled appointment.

2. Aufenthaltstitel Update: Complete the update process.

3. FRV Appointment: Ensure all documents are ready for your wife's appointment.

Stay calm and proactive. Keep your wife's FRV appointment top priority.

Would you like information on:

1. LEA office locations?

2. Karachi Consulate requirements?

3. German Embassy guidelines?

4. Temporary Aufenthaltstitel procedures?

Step by step guide for Germany health insurance

Question: Aslam o alaikum group members, 

I am student here in Germany and i am 30+ also. 

I had health insurance of mawista when i came here 6 months ago. Then i got job in Amazon warehouse and they asked me to shift to public health insurance. But after 3 months i didnt continue the contract because i had to go Pakistan for a visit. And i canceled my public health insurance also because for 30+ of age it’s quite expensive without a job. So technically from last 2 months i have no health insurance as i am in pakistan. Now i am coming back to Germany and i have no health Insurance. What should i do now? I have to travel in few days so i need suggestions.

Wa Alaikum Assalam!

Given your situation, here's a step-by-step guide to resolve your health insurance issue:

Immediate Solution (for travel)

1. Travel Insurance: Purchase temporary travel insurance covering you for the duration of your trip to Germany. This will provide basic coverage.

2. Mawista Re-activation: Contact Mawista (your previous insurance provider) to inquire about re-activating your policy.

Long-term Solution (upon arrival in Germany)

1. Public Health Insurance: Re-register with a public health insurance provider (e.g., TK, AOK, or Barmer). As you're 30+, you'll need to provide proof of income or employment.

2. Private Health Insurance: Explore private options (e.g., Mawista, Allianz, or AXA) suitable for students and non-employed individuals.

3. Student Health Insurance: If you're enrolled in a university, check if they offer student health insurance plans.

Steps to Follow

1. Notify authorities: Inform the German authorities (Anmeldung) about your return and health insurance status.

2. Update your address: Notify your health insurance provider and Amazon (if applicable) about your updated address.

3. Proof of income: Prepare documentation (e.g., scholarship, stipend or bank statements) to demonstrate financial means.

Recommendations*l

1. Consult insurance experts: Contact German health insurance providers or consult with a insurance broker.

2. University support: Reach out to your university's international office for guidance.

3. Amazon HR: Inform Amazon HR about your return and health insurance situation.

Important Contacts

1. Mawista: +49 711 490 939-0

2. German Health Insurance Association (GKV): +49 228 976-0

3. Your university's international office

Timeline

1. Purchase travel insurance before your trip.

2. Re-register with a health insurance provider within 1-2 weeks of arrival.

3. Update authorities and notify relevant parties.

Stay safe, and enjoy your return to Germany!

Additional questions or concerns?

German student visa requirements step by step

Here's a step-by-step guide to German student visa requirements:

*Step 1: Determine Eligibility*

1. *Age*: Typically 18-35 years old

2. *Education*: Bachelor's, Master's or PhD programs; language courses; or vocational training

3. *Language proficiency*: German (A1-A2) or English (B1-B2) language skills

4. *Financial means*: €10,332 per year (approx. PKR 2,200,000) for living expenses

*Step 2: Gather Required Documents*

*General Documents*

1. *Valid passport*: At least 3 months beyond intended stay

2. *Completed application form*: Signed and dated

3. *Recent photo*: Meeting German visa photo requirements

4. *Travel insurance*: Minimum coverage of €30,000

5. *Proof of financial means*: Bank statement, income tax return or employment contract

*Academic Documents*

1. *Admission letter*: From a German university

2. *Degree certificates*: Translated and certified copies

3. *Transcripts*: Translated and certified copies

4. *Language proficiency certificates*: A1-A2 German or B1-B2 English

*Additional Documents*

1. *Motivation letter*: Explaining study goals and reasons for choosing Germany

2. *CV*: Updated and signed

3. *Proof of accommodation*: Rental agreement or confirmation from university

4. *Health certificate*: If required by the Embassy/Consulate

*Step 3: Apply for Admission*

1. *University admission*: Apply through the university's website or Uni-Assist (for international students)

2. *Language course admission*: Apply directly to the language school

*Step 4: Submit Visa Application*

1. *German Embassy/Consulate*: Submit application in person or through authorized visa application centers

2. *Application fee*: €75 (approximately PKR 16,000)

3. *Attend interview*: If required

*Step 5: Wait for Visa Decision*

1. *Processing time*: Typically 3-4 months

2. *Visa approval*: Collect passport with visa sticker

*Step 6: Register with German Authorities*

1. *Residence registration*: Register with local authorities (Anmeldung)

2. *Health insurance*: Register with a German health insurance provider

*Additional Requirements*

1. *Blocked account*: Open a blocked account (Sperrkonto) for living expenses

2. *Language proficiency test*: Take a language proficiency test (e.g., TestDaF or DSH)

3. *University entrance qualification*: Verify university entrance qualification (Hochschulzugangsberechtigung)

*Important Resources*

1. German Embassy/Consulate website

2. German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD)

3. Uni-Assist

4. German universities' websites

*Timeline*

1. *6-12 months before departure*: Research universities and programs

2. *3-6 months before departure*: Apply for admission and visa

3. *1-3 months before departure*: Register with German authorities and open blocked account

*Tips*

1. *Apply early*: To ensure timely processing

2. *Verify document accuracy*: Ensure translations and certifications are correct

3. *Check visa requirements*: For specific nationalities or circumstances

Would you like information on:

1. German Embassy/Consulate locations?

2. Authorized visa application centers?

3. University admission procedures?

4. Language proficiency tests?

5. Blocked account options?

German Tourist visa and documents needed with application

Germany offers a Tourist Visa (Schengen Visa, Category C) for travelers intending to explore Germany's rich culture, history and natural beauty. Here's an overview and the required documents:

Overview

1. Purpose: Tourism, visiting friends/family, cultural events or business meetings.

2. Duration: Up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

3. Validity: Typically issued for a specific period (e.g., 30, 60 or 90 days).

4. Application: Submit through the German Embassy/Consulate or authorized visa application centers.

Required Documents

General Documents

1. Passport: Valid for at least 3 months beyond the intended stay.

2. Completed Application Form: Signed and dated.

3. Recent Photo: Meeting German visa photo requirements.

4. Travel Insurance: Minimum coverage of €30,000.

5. Proof of Financial Means: Bank statement, income tax return or employment contract.

Additional Documents

1. Flight Itinerary: Confirmed flight booking or travel plans.

2. Hotel Reservation: Proof of accommodation.

3. Detailed Travel Plan: Day-wise itinerary.

4. Proof of Language Proficiency: For non-English speaking applicants (A1 level German/English language certificate). not needed

5. Employment Documents: Leave letter, NOC (No Objection Certificate) or business registration.

Specific Requirements

1. Minors: Birth certificate, parental consent and ID.

2. Retirees: Pension documents, proof of financial support.

3. Self-Employed: Business registration, income tax return.

*Supporting Documents*

1. Invitation Letter: From friends/family in Germany (if applicable).

2. Travel History: Previous visas, entry/exit stamps.

3. Health Certificate: If required by the Embassy/Consulate.

Application Process

1. Submit Application: Through the German Embassy/Consulate or authorized visa application centers.

2. Pay Application Fee*: €60 (approximately PKR 12,000).

3. Attend Interview: If required.

4. Wait for Decision: Typically 15-30 days.

*LAdditional Tips

1. Apply Early*l: 3-4 weeks before travel.

2. Ensure Document Accuracy: Verify information and translations.

3. Check Visa Requirements: For specific nationalities or circumstances.

Please consult the German Embassy/Consulate or authorized visa application centers for the most up-to-date information.

18-hour layover in Istanbul

With an 18-hour layover in Istanbul, you have plenty of options to make the most of your time.

Airport Amenities

Istanbul Airport offers various amenities to keep you comfortable and entertained. You can indulge in shopping at the duty-free area, browse through countless retail shops, or enjoy local and international cuisine at the airport's restaurants and cafes 

- Relaxation Options:

    - Recharge at the airport's lounges, available for purchase or free with business/first-class tickets .

    - Unwind at the "Nap Zones" with day beds and lounge chairs .

    - Treat yourself to spa treatments and shower facilities .

- Entertainment:

    - Catch up on your favorite shows at the TV-watching areas .

    - Explore the airport's library with over 2,000 books and audio-visual materials 

    - Visit the art galleries showcasing Turkish culture and photography .

- Convenience:

    - Utilize the airport's free Wi-Fi and charging points 

    - Exchange currency or withdraw cash from ATMs .

Exploring Istanbul

If you have time and prefer to venture out, Istanbul is only 40-50 minutes away from the airport by taxi or metro . Consider visiting:

- Historical Landmarks: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Basilica Cistern

- Cultural Experiences: Grand Bazaar, Spice Market, and Dolmabahce Palace 

- Scenic Views: Galata Tower and Bosphorus Strait 

Layover Tours

Look into guided tours specifically designed for layovers, offering flexible itineraries and transportation . These tours can help you make the most of your limited time.

Accommodation

If you prefer to rest, consider booking a hotel room near the airport or within the airport itself, like YOTEL Istanbul Airport Hotel .