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On this page, you will find all VISAGUARD glossary entries for the letter C. The glossary entries are arranged alphabetically and include the most important terms in immigration law that begin with the letter C. Each definition in the glossary is linked to the relevant law or administrative regulation and also refers to the corresponding VISAGUARD technical article.
C-Level (Residence Act)
The "C-level" typically refers to the executive bodies of legal entities or their members and managing directors (e.g., CEO and CFO). These individuals can work in Germany under simplified conditions and apply for residence permits.
Related legal source: Section 3 BeschV
Related VISAGUARD article: CEO Visa
Right of Opportunity
The right of opportunity for residence is a residence permit for tolerated foreigners. A tolerated foreigner shall be granted a residence permit if, as of October 31, 2022, they have resided in the Federal Republic of Germany continuously for five years, either with a tolerated status, permission to remain, or with a residence permit, and they are committed to the free democratic basic order of the Federal Republic of Germany and have not been convicted of an intentional crime committed in the Federal Republic of Germany (right of opportunity for residence).
Related legal source: Section 104c Residence Act
Related VISAGUARD article: International Law and Humanitarian Obligations
Opportunity map
The Opportunity Card is a residence permit for seeking employment or for measures to recognize foreign professional qualifications. It replaces the so-called Job Seeker Visa as of March 1, 2024. The Opportunity Card is initially issued for a period of up to one year (search opportunity card). The Opportunity Card can be extended for up to two years if the foreign national has an employment contract or a binding job offer for qualified employment in Germany and the Federal Employment Agency has approved it (follow-up opportunity card).
Related legal source: Section 20a Residence Act
Related VISAGUARD article: Apply for an Opportunity Card

