How to apply for opportunity card (chancenkarte) in Germany #

Thinking of starting your career in Germany but don’t have a job offer yet? Say hello to Opportunity Card Germany (Chancenkarte) Germany’s new way to welcome skilled non-EU workers who are ready to bring their talent to Europe’s strongest economy. Whether you’re a young graduate, a seasoned professional, or someone with ties to Germany, this guide breaks down everything you need to know step by step.

What is the Opportunity Card(Chancenkarte)? #

The Chancenkarte is a one-year residence permit allowing skilled non-EU nationals to enter Germany and search for full-time employment. While you search, you’re allowed to:

• Work part-time up to 20 hours/week
• Do a two-week trial job (Probearbeit)

Once you land a full-time job, you can switch to a work residence permit and eventually apply for permanent residency.

Who can apply for the Opportunity Card in Germany? #

There are two pathways to qualify for the Opportunity Card:

• Path 1: Recognition Track
  You automatically qualify if your foreign qualification is fully recognized in Germany.
• Path 2: Points-Based Track
  If your qualifications are not recognized, you can still qualify if:
  • You meet 3 basic criteria
  • You score 6+ points in the Opportunity Card point system

Basic eligibility criteria (Must haves) #

You must have all three:

• Professional Qualification: University degree or vocational training (2+ years)
• Language Skills: At least A1 German or B2 English
• Financial Means: Either:
  • Blocked account (~€13,092)
  • Part-time job offer (min. €1,091/month)
  • Formal support letter from a German resident

The Opportunity Card points system (2025) #

Category	Criteria	Points
Education & Work	Degree partly recognized in Germany	4
Education & Work	5+ years work experience (last 7 years)	3
Education & Work	2+ years work experience (last 5 years)	2
Education & Work	Training in shortage occupation (e.g., IT, health, trades)	1
Language Skills	German B2+	3
Language Skills	German B1	2
Language Skills	German A1–A2	1
Language Skills	English C1+	1
Age	Under 35	2
Age	35–40	1
Ties to Germany	6+ months stay in last 5 years (study, work, internship)	1
Spouse	Eligible and applying with you	1

You need 6 points total from any combination. Use the official points calculator

How to apply for the Opportunity Card #

Option 1: Apply Online

1. Go to: digital.diplo.de
2. Register with your phone number/email
3. Fill out your qualifications, experience, and documents
4. If you qualify (6+ points), proceed with the digital application
5. Upload required files (PDF, JPG, PNG – max 10 MB)
6. Visit the embassy to provide biometrics and pay fees

Option 2: Apply in person

1. Gather your documents:
   • Valid passport
   • Proof of qualifications
   • Language certificates
   • Job letters or references
   • Proof of financial means
   • Spouse/marriage docs (if applicable)
2. Translate them into German (if needed)
3. Book an appointment at your local German mission
4. Fill out the application form
5. Submit docs during your appointment/interview

Costs of the Opportunity Card #

• Visa application fee: €75
• Translation costs: Vary per document
• Proof of funds: Either
  • €13,092 in a blocked account
  • €1,091/month part-time job offer
  • Declaration of commitment from German resident

Benefits of the Opportunity Card Germany #

• Start without full recognition of your degree
• Work part-time while job hunting
• Gain real work experience in Germany
• Easy transition to a work visa once hired
• Step closer to permanent residence (after full-time job)

Opportunity card vs job seeker visa #

Criteria	Job Seeker Visa	Opportunity Card
Duration	6 months (non-renewable)	12 months (renewable)
Work Rights	Not allowed to work (only 10 hrs/week trial)	Up to 20 hrs/week allowed
Requirements	Recognized qualifications	Points-based or recognition
Application	In-person	Online or in-person
Target Audience	Highly qualified only	Broader (including trades)

FAQs about the Opportunity Card Germany #

• How much does it cost?
  €75 application fee + proof of financial support
• Can I work while searching for jobs?
  Yes, up to 20 hrs/week plus trial jobs.
• What happens after I find a full-time job?
  Apply for a work-related residence permit at your local immigration office.
• Can I renew the Opportunity Card?
  Yes, if you still meet the criteria.
• How is it different from the Job Seeker Visa?
  The Chancenkarte allows part-time work and is based on a points system, not just qualification recognition.

The Opportunity Card opens doors for those who previously felt blocked by bureaucracy. It’s your chance to bring your talent to Germany even if you don’t have a job offer (yet). Start your application today and build your future in Germany.

What should I do after arriving in Germany? #

Arrive a few weeks before the semester starts to settle in, register at the local residents’ office, and complete your university enrollment. See out step by step guide once you arrive in Germany, this guide will give you all informations how to get from from airport to accommodation, health insurance, open bank account and even how to buy a SIM card in Germany. Please follow this link “Arrival and Setup in Germany”

Need Help? #

Whether you’re applying for a Bachelor’s, Master’s, Ausbildung, Job Seeker Visa, Chancenkarte, Family Reunion Visa, Permanent Residency, or German Citizenship, we are here to help. Visit our Consultation Section or contact us for expert support with applications, document checks, interview prep, and more.