Germany’s New “Opportunity Card” (Chancenkarte): The 2026 Points System Guide
Start here if you want to move to Germany to find a job, but don’t have a work contract yet. This post is your complete 2026 guide to Germany’s new “Opportunity Card” (Chancenkarte), a revolutionary 1-year visa for job seekers based on a points system.
Why read this? You will achieve three things:
- Clarity: You will learn exactly how the Germany points-based system works and how to get the 6 points you need.
- Confidence: You will get a checklist of the “basic requirements” (like language and funds) you must meet *before* you can even use the points system.
- A Plan: You will understand the full application process for this Germany job seeker visa and what to do once you arrive in Germany.
By the end of this guide, you will be able to calculate your own points and know if you qualify. We will also provide links to the official “Make it in Germany” portal where you can find the application forms.
What is the Germany Opportunity Card? (And Why Is It a Game-Changer?)
The Chancenkarte, or “Opportunity Card,” is a new residence permit (introduced in 2024) that allows non-EU citizens to come to Germany for up to one year to look for a job.
This is a complete game-changer. Previously, most non-EU citizens needed a binding job offer *before* they could apply for a visa. Now, you can move to Germany first, do interviews in person, and find the perfect job.
Key Benefits of the Opportunity Card:
- Job Seeking: One full year to find a qualified job (not just any job).
- Part-Time Work: You are allowed to work part-time (up to 20 hours/week) while you search, helping you cover living costs.
- Trial Work: You can do “trial work” (Probearbeit) for up to two weeks to test a potential job.
- Easy Conversion: Once you find a qualified job, you can easily convert your Opportunity Card into a skilled worker visa or EU Blue Card from *within* Germany.
The 2026 Requirements: How to Get Your 6 Points
To get the Opportunity Card, you must first meet two “Basic Requirements.” Then, you must score at least 6 points on the points test.
Step 1: The Basic Requirements (You MUST meet these)
You are only eligible for the points system if you meet these two conditions:
- Secure Livelihood: You must prove you can pay for your living expenses for one year. This means showing a “blocked account” (Sperrkonto) with approx. €1,027 per month (around €12,324 for the year) or a formal sponsorship.
- Language Skills: You must have at least A1 level German OR B2 level English.
Step 2: The Points System (You MUST score at least 6 points)
If you meet the basic requirements, you can collect points. Here is the 2026 breakdown:
- 4 POINTS: Full Qualification Recognition
You get this if your foreign university degree or vocational training is fully recognized as “equivalent” in Germany (e.g., via the Anabin database or ZAB).
- 3 POINTS: Professional Experience
You get this if you have at least five years of professional experience (in the last seven years) in your trained occupation.
- 2 POINTS: Professional Experience
You get this if you have at least two years of professional experience (in the last five years) in your trained occupation.
- 1 POINT: Age
You get this if you are 35 years old or younger.
- 1-4 POINTS: German Language Skills
1 point for B1, 2 points for B2, 3 points for C1, 4 points for C2. (Note: This is *in addition* to the A1 basic requirement).
- 1 POINT: English Language Skills
You get 1 point for C1 (proficient) English.
- 1 POINT: Previous Stay in Germany
You get this if you have lived in Germany for at least six months in the past.
- 1 POINT: Spouse Qualification
You get this if your spouse or partner also meets the requirements for an Opportunity Card.
*Easy Path:* If you have your qualification fully recognized (4 points) and B1 German (1 point) and are under 35 (1 point), you already have 6 points.
Step-by-Step: Your Opportunity Card Application Process
- Calculate Your Points: Use the list above to confirm you have at least 6 points.
- Meet Basic Requirements: Open your blocked account and get your A1 German / B2 English certificate.
- Apply for the Visa: Apply for the “Opportunity Card” visa at the German embassy in your home country. You will show your proof of funds, language skills, and documents for your points (degree, work letters, etc.).
- Move to Germany & Register: Once your visa is approved, move to Germany and register your address (Anmeldung).
- Look for a Job: You now have one year to find a qualified job in your field.
- Convert Your Visa: Once you have a job contract, you apply at your local Foreigners’ Office (Ausländerbehörde) to convert your Opportunity Card into an EU Blue Card or Skilled Worker Visa.
Opportunity Card vs. Job Seeker Visa: What’s the Difference?
Germany also has an older “Job Seeker Visa” (§20). Here’s the difference:
| Feature | Opportunity Card (New) | Job Seeker Visa (Old) |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 1 Year | 6 Months |
| Right to Work? | Yes (20 hours/week) | No (only trial work) |
| Who is it for? | Skilled workers (points-based) | University graduates only |
The Verdict: The Opportunity Card is superior in every way. It’s longer, more flexible, allows part-time work, and is open to more people (not just graduates) via the points system.
Conclusion: Your Next Step to Finding a Job in Germany
The Chancenkarte is a golden opportunity. For the first time, Germany is allowing qualified workers to come *before* they have a job, trusting that their skills will land them a position.
Your journey starts with your points. Your first step is to gather your documents (degree, work references, language certificates) and calculate your points. Your second is to start saving for your blocked account. Visit the official “Make it in Germany” portal to double-check the criteria and download the application forms.