There are five main factors that evaluate the points required for an Opportunity card in Germany. Note: 6/15 points are required to qualify.
Germany Work
A points-based residence permit to search for employment in Germany for up to 12 months without a prior job offer.
Free Assessment
Provide your details below to check your eligibility.
What is a German Opportunity Card?
The Germany Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte Visa) is a points-based residence permit introduced to attract skilled professionals from non-EU countries. It allows qualified individuals to enter Germany without a job offer and search for employment for up to 12 months. The program supports Germany’s growing demand for skilled workers across industries such as IT, healthcare, engineering, manufacturing, and skilled trades. German Government took this initiative to meet the workforce demands with a simplified job search process. This leads to a potential pathway for permanent residency in Germany.
Key Benefits
- Direct access to the German job market.
- Can get a work permit immediately.
- Can stay for 1 year and search for jobs in Germany.
- Earn 1000 Euro per month working part-time while searching for jobs.
- Can do part-time jobs for up to 20 hours/week until you secure a permanent job.
- Fast-track hiring process and easy entry to Germany.
- No Federal Employment approval is required.
- Best pathway to permanent residency in Germany.
Eligibility Checklist
- Valid passport.
- A minimum of two years of vocational training or a university degree recognized in Germany.
- 2 years of professional work experience relevant to the qualification.
- Proficiency in German or English.
- Age between 18 to 40.
- Proof of Funds of approximately € 13,092.
- At least 6 out of 15 points under the Opportunity card points system.
- Medical health insurance.
- Previous legal stay in Germany for 6 months or more (Tourist stays are not considered - for extra points).
Application Process Steps
Your step-by-step roadmap to obtaining your visa and Work.
Check your score under the points system and confirm you meet the 6-point threshold.
Gather passport, educational certificates, work experience letters, language test results, and proof of funds.
Make sure your degree or vocational qualification is recognized in Germany. Complete credential verification if required.
Schedule an appointment at the nearest German Embassy or Consulate.
Attend the appointment and submit your application along with biometric data.
Your application will be reviewed by the authorities (usually 4 to 6 months).
Once approved, travel to Germany and start your job search.
Germany Opportunity Card Points Calculator
Proof of Funds
The applicant must have sufficient financial resources to fund the job search in Germany. Proof of sufficient financial means is required to cover the costs of living for the duration of the stay by one of the following documents:
Option 1: Blocked Account
Proof of a “Sperrkonto” (blocked account) in Germany with sufficient funds currently amounting to at least EUR 1,091 per month (EUR 13,092 for one year).
Option 2: Sponsor Letter
“Verpflichtungserklärung” (formal obligation letter with the planned length of stay of one year with the purpose of stay as - Chancenkarte/Long Term visa) by a sponsor living in Germany.
Option 3: Bank Statements
Recent 3 months statements of a savings bank account with enough funds (€ 13,092). We recommend making small deposits regularly.
In-Demand Jobs in Germany
Germany currently has around 1.8 million job vacancies across multiple industries, creating strong demand for international talent. Below are the most in-demand job roles:
Germany EU Blue Card Visa
The Germany EU Blue Card is a residence permit for highly skilled non-EU professionals who have a qualified job offer in Germany. It allows you to live and work in Germany and provides a faster route to permanent residency.<br><br><strong>Validity:</strong> Issued for the duration of your employment contract plus 3 months, up to a maximum of 4 years. Renewable if you continue to meet the requirements.<br><strong>Permanent Residence:</strong> Eligible after 21 months with B1 German language proficiency, or after 27 months with A1 German.
Eligibility
- Hold a recognized university degree or an equivalent higher education qualification.
- Have a job offer or employment contract in Germany for at least 6 months.
- The job must match your qualifications.
- Meet the minimum salary requirement (General: €50,700, Shortage occupations: €45,934.20).
- If your profession is regulated (e.g., doctors), you must have the required professional license.
Required Documents
- Valid passport & Completed visa application.
- Job offer/employment contract.
- Recognized degree or qualification & Educational certificates.
- Updated CV & Passport-size photographs.
- Health insurance & Proof of accommodation.
- Visa fee payment receipt.
Benefits
Live and work in Germany. Bring your spouse and children (Spouse can work without restrictions). Travel within the Schengen Area. Change employers (subject to applicable rules). Faster pathway to permanent residence.
Cost & Processing Time
<strong>Minimum Salary (2026):</strong> General: €50,700 gross/year. Shortage occupations: €45,934.20 gross/year.
<strong>Processing Time:</strong> Generally 4–12 weeks.
<strong>Processing Fees:</strong> Typically €110 (varies from €100 to €140 depending on the region).
Ready to Begin Your Work Journey?
Take the first step towards your international career. Fill out the assessment form above or get in touch with our immigration specialists today.
Australia
Canada
Germany
USA
UK
Austria
Portugal
Sweden
UAE