Germany Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte): Visa Requirements & Process

The Germany Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte)

The Germany Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) is a new job-seeker visa launched in

June 2024, allowing skilled professionals to live in Germany for up to 1 year to search

for employment. It operates on a points-based system and does not require a prior job

offer.

Principal factors

• 12-month stay to find a job in Germany

• Work part-time (20h/week) while job hunting

• No prior job offers required

• Points-based eligibility (minimum 6 points needed)

• Family can join (spouse & children)

• Pathway to EU Blue Card/Work Visa after securing a job

Eligibility Requirements

You must score at least 6 points from the following criteria:

Assess Your Qualification: (Criteria & Points)

Bachelor’s/Master’s degree (recognized in Germany) - 4 points

German language (B1 level) - 3 points

English language (C1 level) - 1 point

Work experience (2+ years in your field) - 3 Points

Age 35 years or younger - 2 Points

Previous stay in Germany (more than 6 months) - 1 Point

Spouse meets eligibility - 1 Point

Required Documents

• Passport (valid for 12+ months)

• Recognized degree (check via anabin.kmk.org)

• Proof of funds (€11,208 in a blocked account or sponsorship)

• Health insurance (valid in Germany)

• CV & motivation letter

• Language certificates (Goethe, Telc, IELTS, TOEFL)

Application Process

• Check Degree Recognition (via anabin)

• Gather Documents (bank statement, insurance, etc.)

• Submit Application (via German embassy in your country)

• Attend Visa Interview (biometrics & document check)

• Receive Opportunity Card (processing: 4–8 weeks)

Costs

• Visa fee: €75–€100

• Blocked account: €11,208 (minimum living costs)

• Health insurance: €120–€200/month