GERMANY · CHANCENKARTE
Search for a Job in
Germany with the Opportunity Card.
The Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) is Germany’s points-based job seeker visa: it lets you go to Germany without a job offer and search for work in person for up to a year. We manage the process from points assessment to visa.
WHAT IS THE CHANCENKARTE?
Go to Germany Without
Waiting for a Job Offer
Introduced in 2024, the Opportunity Card is a residence permit that lets qualified applicants travel to Germany without an employment contract and meet employers in person.
During the card’s validity, you can work up to 20 hours a week to support yourself, and take trial work with employers you’re interested in. Once you find a suitable job, you switch to a work residence permit.
BASIC REQUIREMENTS
Who Can
Apply?
- At least 2 years of vocational training or a university degree
- Basic German (A1) or good English (B2)
- Proof of financial means for Germany (blocked account or other income)
- Those with a fully recognized diploma in Germany can apply directly without meeting the points requirement
POINTS SYSTEM
Where Do the
Points Come From?
Once you meet the basic requirements, you need at least 6 points. Main point sources:
- Partial recognition: Your diploma being partly recognized in Germany — 4 points
- Work experience: Based on recent qualified work experience — 2 to 3 points
- Language level: German A2 / B1 / B2+ — 1 / 2 / 3 points; English C1 — 1 point
- Age: Under 35 — 2 points; 35–40 — 1 point
- Shortage occupation: If your profession is on Germany’s shortage list — 1 point
- Ties to Germany: Prior time in Germany and spouse eligibility — extra points
PROCESS
5 Steps to the
Opportunity Card
From points assessment to your job search in Germany, we’re with you.
Points Assessment
We score your profile against official criteria.
Documents & Recognition
We prepare your file, including recognition if needed.
Visa Application
We submit your application and track your appointment.
Arrival in Germany
We guide your housing and first steps.
Job Search Support
We support your CV and application process.
FAQ
Frequently Asked
Questions
Book a free call if your question isn’t answered here.
What happens if I find a job?
Once you sign a qualified employment contract, you switch from the Opportunity Card to a work residence permit — no need to leave Germany. We help plan this transition too.
How much financial proof is required?
The amount is set by the authorities and updated periodically; it can be met via a blocked account or other income. We confirm the current figure for your application date in our call.
Can I bring my family with me?
Since the Opportunity Card period is for job searching, family reunification isn’t typically available at this stage; once you find work and switch to a work permit, family reunification becomes possible.
What if I don’t find a job within a year?
Extensions are possible if you meet certain conditions (e.g., you already have a part-time job); strengthening your profile and reapplying can also be planned. We discuss the risks upfront.
LAST CALL
Learning Your Score
Takes 15 Minutes.
In a free consultation, let’s calculate your Opportunity Card score together and plan how to close any gaps.
Book a Free Consultation