Europe visas
Germany Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) to look for work
A job-search visa for skilled people from outside the EU. You travel to Germany to look for work, without a job offer first.
- Needs
- Recognised qualification
- Points
- At least 6
- Language
- German A1 or English B2
Who it suits
Is this visa for you?
- You hold a degree or a vocational qualification of at least two years
- You want to look for work in Germany in person
- You can fund your stay while you search
The basics
What the authorities look for
- A qualification recognised in Germany, or a state-recognised qualification checked through the official database
- At least 6 points under the points system, with proof
- German at level A1 or English at level B2
- Proof of funds, such as a blocked account or a declaration of commitment
- A valid passport and no reason for expulsion
A summary of the published rules. The full rules have more conditions, and they change. Last reviewed October 2026. Make it in Germany: Opportunity Card
Take care
Where cases go wrong
- **Recognition first.** The qualification route depends on how it is assessed. Check this before you pay for anything.
- **Proof of every point.** Each point you claim needs a document.
- **Funds.** The monthly amount for the blocked account is updated. Use the current figure.
- **Switching after arrival.** You will need to move to a work permit once you find a job.
Your case has details a web page cannot cover.
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Germany Opportunity Card questions
Can I work on the Opportunity Card?
The card is for job searching. Once you find a job, you switch to a residence permit for work. Check the conditions on part-time work.
Do I need German?
You need German at level A1 or English at level B2, depending on the route you qualify under.
Keep reading
Other Europe visa pages
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