Check whether you qualify for Germany’s Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte), which lets you live in Germany for up to a year to look for work. Answer a few questions to count your points.
Loading the tool…
Who can apply
Everyone needs a university degree or at least two years of vocational training recognised in the country where you got it, plus German at A1 or English at B2. If your qualification is fully recognised in Germany, you qualify without points. Otherwise you need 6 points.
The points table
| Criterion | Points |
|---|---|
| Partial recognition of your qualification in Germany | 4 |
| German B2 or higher / B1 / A2 | 3 / 2 / 1 |
| English C1 or higher | 1 |
| Work experience: 5 years in the last 7 / 2 years in the last 5 | 3 / 2 |
| Qualification in a shortage occupation | 1 |
| Age under 35 / 35 to 40 | 2 / 1 |
| At least 6 months’ legal stay in Germany in the last 5 years | 1 |
| Spouse or partner also qualifies and applies with you | 1 |
Worked examples
A 29-year-old engineer with no German
Age gives 2 points and 3 years’ experience gives 2 points: 4 in total, so 2 short. Reaching German A2 (1 point) and getting a partial recognition (4 points) would take them to 9.
A 33-year-old nurse with B1 German
German B1 (2) + age (2) + 5 years’ experience (3) = 7 points, enough to qualify. Nursing is also a shortage occupation, which can add 1 more.
Money and timing
You must show you can support yourself, currently €1,091 a month, usually through a blocked account. The card lasts up to 12 months, and you can work part-time (up to 20 hours a week) and do trial work while you look for a skilled job.
Frequently asked questions
How many points do I need for the Chancenkarte?
6 points, unless your qualification is fully recognised in Germany, in which case you don’t need points.
Can I get the Opportunity Card without German?
Yes, if you have English at B2 or higher. German isn’t required, but it earns up to 3 points.
How much money do I need?
Proof of €1,091 a month for your stay, usually in a blocked account.
Can I work on the Opportunity Card?
Yes, part-time up to 20 hours a week, plus trial work of up to two weeks per employer.
Sources
- German Embassy: Opportunity Card
- City of Munich: Chancenkarte points system (PDF)
- Federal Foreign Office: Apply online for the Opportunity Card
Last updated: