Chancenkarte

Build Your Career in Germany with the Opportunity Card

Leverage your expertise to work and live in Germany
About Chancenkarte

What is the Opportunity Card?

The Opportunity Card (“Chancenkarte”) allows skilled professionals from non-EU countries to enter Germany to explore job opportunities without needing a confirmed employment contract. It is available to those recognised as qualified workers or who meet the minimum six-point threshold in the points assessment. Applicants must also have sufficient financial resources to support themselves during their time in Germany.
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The Opportunity Card (“Chancenkarte”) allows skilled professionals from non-EU countries to enter Germany to explore job opportunities without needing a confirmed employment contract. It is available to those recognised as qualified workers or who meet the minimum six-point threshold in the points assessment. Applicants must also have sufficient financial resources to support themselves during their time in Germany.

Benefits of Chancenkarte:

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Who is it for?

Work in Germany with Opportunity Card

For Candidates

Are you from a non-EU country and want to work in Germany? The Opportunity Card Germany offers a one-year residence permit to search for a job—no contract required! Apply easily through the points system and check your eligibility with our points calculator.
candidates

For Employers

Looking for qualified support and considering hiring a foreign skilled worker? Discover the Opportunity Card, simplify recruitment, and help skilled workers from non-EU countries find the right job in Germany. Strengthen your team with top international talent.
Affiliated Services

Everything You Need for a Smooth Start

The Chancenkarte uses a transparent points system based on your education, work experience.

Blocked Account

You must show sufficient funds to cover living expenses to obtain the Chancenkarte.

Health Insurance

Health insurance is mandatory to live and work in Germany. We’ve found the best options for you.

Legal Construction

Partner lawyers provide advice to help you address questions and start your life in Germany smoothly.
OUR PARTNERS
Eligibility & Points System

Eligibility & Points System

Key Requirements
You must have basic German language skills (A1) or English language skills (B2) and at least two years of vocational training recognized in your home country. Additionally, you need to demonstrate sufficient financial means, which can be shown, for example, through a part-time employment contract (up to 20 hours per week).
They are granted for partial recognition of a foreign professional qualification or for authorization to work in a regulated profession (e.g., teacher, nurse, or engineer). Only a small number of applicants meet these criteria.
They are awarded for five years of professional experience in the past seven years in your trained profession, along with two years of vocational training recognized in your home country. Alternatively, you can earn three points for strong German language skills at level B2.
They are awarded for two years of professional experience following vocational training within the last five years. Applicants under 35 receive two additional points, and German language skills at level B1 also earn two points.
It is awarded to applicants under 40 years old who have previously stayed in Germany for at least six months, with documented proof required. Stays as a tourist do not count.
FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Chancenkarte (Opportunity Card) Germany?
The Chancenkarte, also known as the Opportunity Card, is a new immigration pathway introduced by Germany to attract skilled professionals from non-EU countries. It allows eligible individuals to enter Germany and search for a job for up to 12 months.
To qualify, applicants must have a recognized qualification or relevant work experience, basic German or English language skills, and score enough points under Germany’s new points-based system that considers education, experience, language, age, and ties to Germany.
The Opportunity Card uses a points-based system where points are awarded for factors like professional qualifications, work experience, language proficiency, age, and prior stays in Germany. You need a minimum number of points to qualify for the visa.
The Chancenkarte allows you to live in Germany for up to one year while searching for a qualified job. During this period, you can work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) or take up trial employment to improve your chances of securing a full-time position.
How is the Chancenkarte different from a German work visa?
Unlike a regular work visa that requires a confirmed job offer before applying, the Chancenkarte allows you to come to Germany first to look for employment. It’s designed to make migration more flexible for skilled professionals.
You typically need a valid passport, proof of qualifications, work experience certificates, language proficiency certificates, health insurance, proof of financial means, and other supporting documents as specified by the German authorities.
Yes. Once you find qualified employment in Germany, you can convert your Opportunity Card into a residence permit or a work visa, allowing you to stay and work in Germany long-term.
Applications are made through the German consulate or embassy in your home country. It’s important to prepare all required documents and meet the eligibility criteria before submission. Guidance from certified consultants can make the process smoother and error-free.
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