Your Guide to the Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) for Germany
If you dream of building a career in Germany, the Opportunity Card, also known as the Chancenkarte, might be your key to success. Whether you're a fresh graduate or an experienced worker, the Opportunity Card for Germany gives you the chance to explore opportunities in Germany and transition into long-term employment.
What Is the Opportunity Card for Germany?
The Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) is a point-based visa programme introduced by Germany to attract skilled workers from non-EU countries. It is designed for qualified international professionals without a job offer allows you to enter Germany to seek employment for up to one year.
Who Can Apply for the Opportunity Card for Germany
You can apply for the Opportunity Card if you fall under one of the following categories:
- Have a recognised professional qualification, such as a university degree or vocational training
- Score at least six points in the points system
In both cases, you would need proof of financial resources and German health insurance coverage.
Benefits of the Opportunity Card
The Opportunity Card for Germany offers a flexible path for international professionals aiming to work in Germany. Key benefits include:
Access to the Job Market
The Chancenkarte provides a structured way to enter and explore the German job market for up to a year.
Long-Term Residence
After securing a job in Germany, you have the opportunity to transition to a long-term residence permit and eventually also permanent residence.
Part-Time Employment
With the Opportunity Card, you can work up to 20 hours per week as you search for full-time employment in your qualified field.
Trial Jobs for Experience
You have the chance to take up trial jobs with prospective employers for a maximum of two weeks to see if you are a right fit.
Getting Ready for Your Chancenkarte Application?
An important requirement is proving that you have sufficient financial resources for your stay. Fintiba’s Blocked Account is a fast, easy and secure way to do this. It's 100% digital and officially accepted by all German authorities.
How the Opportunity Card Points System Works
If you would like to apply for Opportunity Card for Germany through the points system, you have to meet certain criteria to accumulate a minimum of six points. These are the factors that come into play for this:
Recognised Foreign Qualification (4 Points)
You will receive four points if your foreign qualification has been assessed and found to be partially equivalent to a German qualification. If you need to complete additional steps to get a license to practice a regulated profession, you still receive four points.
Language Proficiency
(1-4 Points)
You receive points based on your language skills:
One point if you have German language skills at A2 level, two points if you are at B1 level and three points
if you have B2 level or higher. Additionally, you receive
one point if you have English language skills at C1 level or higher.
Professional Experience
(2-3 Points)
You receive two points, if you have at least two years of relevant work experience in your qualified field from the last five years. If you have at least three years of relevant work experience from the last seven years, you will receive three points.
Age
(1-2 Points)
You receive two points, if you are under 35 years old. If you are between 35 and 40, you receive one point.
Shortage Profession Qualification
(1 Point)
You receive one point, if you are qualified in a profession currently facing a shortage of skilled employees in Germany. Shortage occupations include fields such as healthcare, engineering, IT and other STEM related fields.
Previous Stay in Germany
(1 Point)
You earn one point, if you have stayed in Germany continuously for at least six months in the last five years. Your stay could have been for the purpose of study or employment.
Joint Application with Spouse (1 Point)
If you apply for the Opportunity Card with your partner at the same German embassy or consulate, then one of the applications will be awarded one point.
Examples of Point Calculation
Let’s take a look at some example cases of internationals applying for Germany’s Opportunity Card to understand how different qualifications and circumstances impact eligibility based on the points system:
Background
- Age 41
- Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Architecture
- Professional Experience: 6 years as an architect
- Language Skills: German at B1 level
- Spouse: Applying together, also an architect
Points Calculation
- Age: 0 points (above 40 years)
- Professional Experience: 3 points (6 years in the last 7 years)
- Language Skills: 2 points (German B1)
- Joint Application with Spouse: 1 points
Eligibility
✅ Tarek has 6 points in total. He meets the minimum requirements of 6 points and is eligible for the Opportunity Card.
Background
- Age 32
- Qualifications: Nursing diploma from her home country
- Professional Experience: 4 years as a registered nurse
- Language Skills: German at B2 level
Points Calculation
- Age: 2 points (under 35 years)
- Qualification in a Shortage Occupation: 1 point (Nursing)
- Professional Experience: 3 points (4 years in the last 5 years)
- Language Skills: 3 points (German B2)
Eligibility
✅ Sofia has 9 points in total. She exceeds the minimum requirements of 6 points and is eligible for the Opportunity Card.
Background
- Age 37
- Qualifications: Master's degree in Software Development
- Professional Experience: 6 years as a software developer
- Language Skills: German at A2 level, English at B2 level
- Previous Stay in Germany: 1 year (internship)
Points Calculation
- Age: 1 points (between 35 and 40)
- Qualification in a Shortage Occupation: 1 point (IT)
- Professional Experience: 3 points (6 years in the last 7 years)
- Language Skills: 2 points (1 for German A2; 1 for English B2)
- Previous Stay in Germany: 1 point (1 year internship)
Eligibility
✅Ahmed has 8 points in total. He exceeds the minimum requirements of 6 points and is eligible for the Opportunity Card.
Background
- Age 27
- Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Business Administration
- Professional Experience: 2 years in digital marketing
- Language Skills: German at A2 level, English at C2 level
Points Calculation
- Age: 2 points (under 35 years)
- Professional Experience: 2 points (2 years in the last 5 years)
- Language Skills: 2 points (1 for German A2; 1 for English C2)
Eligibility
✅Amara has 6 points in total. She meets the minimum requirements of 6 points and is eligible for the Opportunity Card.
How to Meet Financial Requirements for Your Chancenkarte
When applying for the Opportunity Card, you need to prove that you will be able to finance your daily life in Germany. For this, you would need either a Blocked Account or a Declaration of Commitment.
Blocked Account
The most common method to show financial stability is to open a German Blocked Account. You are required to deposit €1,091 for every month you will be staying inside the country (€13,092 for one year).
Declaration of Commitment
Alternatively, if you have a relative or friend who lives in Germany, they can provide you with a "Verpflichtungserklärung". This guarantees that they will financially support during your stay.
Required Documents for Your Opportunity Card Application
Besides the points system, you need to meet the following fundamental criteria for your application for the Chancenkarte to be considered:
Completed application form
Valid passport
Proof of sufficient financial resources to cover your living costs
Proof of adequate health insurance coverage
Professional CV
Letter of motivation
Blocked Account for your Opportunity Card
Your journey to Germany starts with a simple step: opening your Blocked Account. With Fintiba, it’s fast, secure, and fully accepted by all German authorities.
✅ Fully digital process
✅ Accepted by all German authorities worldwide
✅ Trusted by 300,000+ internationals
Health Insurance for your Opportunity Card
Health insurance is a must-have for your Opportunity Card application and we’re here to make it simple for you. Fintiba provides you the right coverage with MAWISTA Reisecare in just a few steps.
✅ 24/7 medical assistance/emergency call centre
✅ Up to 365 days of reliable insurance cover
✅ 100% cost coverage of insured services
How to Apply for the Opportunity Card for Germany
You can apply for the Opportunity Card at the German Embassy or Consulate in your home country. The application involves several steps:
Check Your Eligibility
Ensure you meet the basic requirements, have minimum six points then gather necessary documents for your application.
Submit Your Application
Depending on your country of origin, you can apply for the Opportunity Card either online or in-person. To confirm, visit the Consular Services Portal and enter your country in the designated field.
Wait for Approval
Processing times vary depending on your country. Once your application is approved, you will receive your Opportunity Card, allowing you to enter Germany.
Your Arrival in Germany
After arrival, you will need to register your residence at the registration office (Bürgeramt) and start your job search. If you secure a job that meets visa requirements, you can transition to a residence permit for employment purposes accordingly.
How to Go About the Online Application for Your Opportunity Card
If you are able to apply for the Opportunity Card online, you will need to go through the following steps:
- Visit the Consular Services Portal and register an account
- Fill out the electronic application form
- Upload the required documents
- Visit your nearest German embassy or consulate to pay the fees and submit biometric information
How the In-Person Application Works
If you need to go through the in-person application, don't worry, the steps are easy and straightforward:
- Schedule an appointment with the German embassy or consulate in your country
- Complete the application form found on their website
- Submit all documents and biometric information at your appointment
- Pay the visa fee
Join Our Free Webinars on the Opportunity Card and Germany
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Difference Between the Chancenkarte and the Job Seeker Visa
Germany offers two different pathways for international professionals to search for employment in Germany: the Opportunity Card and the Job Seeker Visa. While they have some similarities, they differ in terms of eligibility and duration of stay.
Opportunity Card
The Opportunity Card is especially designed for skilled internationals outside of Germany to be able to enter Germany for up to one year to find a job.
Job Seeker Visa
The Job Seeker Visa is intended for recent graduates and qualified professionals who are already living in Germany. It allows them to extend their stay for up to 18 months to look for employment.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
You’ve explored the Chancenkarte and now it’s time to work on your application.
Start by opening your Fintiba Blocked Account - trusted by 300,000+ internationals and easy to set up!
Most Common Questions About the Chancenkarte
Get answers to the most frequently asked questions about Germany's Opportunity Card, from application process to renewal requirements.
Can I work immediately with the Opportunity Card?
Yes, the Opportunity Card allows you to work a part-time job for up to 20 hours a week. Additionally, you are able to take up trial jobs of up to two week with prospective long-term employers.
How much does the Opportunity Card cost?
The application for the German Opportunity Card costs €75. You are required to make this payment at your local German embassy or consulate.
Can I bring family on an Opportunity Card in Germany?
As an Opportunity Card holder, you cannot automatically bring your family. Family reunification is only possible after you switch to a residence permit after you get employed. However, if your spouse also holds the necessary requirements, they can also apply for the Chancenkarte.
Can I renew or extend it?
Yes but there are very strict restrictions. If you have not found a job during the one year period, you will probably have to return to your home country and reapply again after one year. However, if you have found a job that meets the requirements but you are not eligible for a suitable residence permit, your Opportunity Card could be extended for up to two years.
For how long is the Opportunity Card valid?
The Opportunity Card is valid for 12 months, giving you lots of time to find a job opportunity.