However, this benefit does not apply to Bangladeshis. Citizens of countries outside the list, including Bangladesh, must apply for an Opportunity Card visa before going to Germany.
According to guidance from the German Foreign Ministry’s embassy in the United Kingdom, citizens of the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea and the United States are covered by this benefit.
Applying in Germany
Even if one has the opportunity for visa-free entry, no one will automatically receive an Opportunity Card upon arriving in Germany. For this, the specified eligibility requirements must be met.
After arriving in the country, one must register their residential address and apply for a residence permit at the local foreigners authority within 90 days of entry. Authorities have advised applicants to make contact quickly, as it may take time to get an appointment at immigration offices in large cities.
Rules for Bangladeshis
Bangladeshi citizens must apply for an Opportunity Card visa before going to Germany. In other words, they do not have the opportunity to go to Germany without a visa and later apply for this card while staying there.
Who can get the Opportunity Card
The Opportunity Card has been introduced to give skilled and qualified workers from outside the European Union the opportunity to go to Germany and look for a job. Even without a prior employment contract, one can apply for this card if they meet the specified eligibility requirements.
Usually, the card is issued for a maximum of one year. If one has a foreign professional or academic qualification recognized in Germany, one can apply through one route, and also by earning at least six points under the points-based system. Age, work experience, educational and professional qualifications, and language proficiency, among various factors, are considered in determining points.
In addition, one must provide proof of ability to cover one's expenses while staying in Germany. According to official information for 2026, proof of having funds equivalent to at least 1,091 euros per month may be required.
Opportunity Card holders can work part-time up to 20 hours per week within a specified limit while looking for a job. There is also the opportunity for trial work to assess suitability for a potential job.
However, even in the case of visa-free entry, local immigration authority rules must be followed. In cities such as Berlin in particular, it has been advised to contact the relevant office and confirm the process before applying locally.
The Opportunity Card has been introduced as part of efforts to attract foreign workers to address the skilled labor shortage in Germany. However, the visa-free entry benefit applies to citizens of eight specific countries; for Bangladeshis, the rule requiring obtaining a visa in advance remains in place.
