Chancenkarte (Opportunity Card)
Germany's New Points-Based Immigration System
The Chancenkarte, or Opportunity Card, is Germany's new points-based system launched in 2024 to attract skilled workers. It allows qualified individuals to come to Germany to search for employment without a prior job offer, based on their qualifications, experience, and potential contribution to the German economy.
How the Points System Works
Minimum Requirements
To qualify for the Chancenkarte, you need to score at least 6 points in the points system. Points are awarded based on various criteria including education, professional experience, language skills, age, and connection to Germany.
Points Breakdown
Education (Max 4 points)
4
University degree recognized in Germany
3
Foreign university degree equivalent to German degree
2
Vocational training recognized in Germany
1
Foreign vocational training equivalent to German training
Professional Experience (Max 3 points)
3
5+ years of professional experience
2
2-4 years of professional experience
1
Less than 2 years of professional experience
Language Skills (Max 3 points)
3
German C1 level or higher
2
German B2 level
1
German B1 level or English C1 level
Age (Max 2 points)
2
Under 35 years old
1
35-40 years old
0
Over 40 years old
Connection to Germany (Max 2 points)
2
Previous stay in Germany (study/work)
1
Spouse/partner is German citizen or resident
1
Previous study in Germany
Chancenkarte Benefits
Job Search Freedom
One year to search for employment in Germany without a prior job offer.
Work Authorization
Permission to work part-time (20 hours/week) or try-out employment (2 weeks).
Family Inclusion
Spouse and minor children can accompany you to Germany.
Renewable
Can be renewed for another year under certain conditions.
Path to Residence
Direct pathway to work visa and permanent residence once employed.
EU Access
Travel freely within the Schengen Area during your stay.
Application Requirements
Mandatory Requirements
- Score minimum 6 points in the points system
- Recognized qualification (university degree or vocational training)
- Proof of sufficient funds (€1,027 per month)
- Health insurance coverage
- Clean criminal background check
Documentation Needed
- Valid passport
- Educational certificates and recognition
- Proof of professional experience
- Language certificates
- Financial statements
Application Process
1
Self-Assessment
Calculate your points using the official points calculator to ensure you meet the minimum requirement.
2
Document Preparation
Gather all required documents, obtain translations and recognition certificates where needed.
3
Online Application
Submit your application online through the official German immigration portal.
4
Consulate Appointment
Schedule and attend appointment at German consulate in your home country.
5
Decision & Travel
Receive decision and travel to Germany to begin your job search journey.
Tips for Success
Maximize Your Points
Focus on improving language skills and getting qualification recognition to increase your points.
Build Networks
Start networking with German professionals and companies in your field before arrival.
Research Job Market
Study the German job market in your field and identify potential employers and opportunities.
Plan Your Stay
Secure accommodation and plan your finances for the job search period in Germany.
Frequently Asked Questions
❌ No! Job Seeker Visa requires a university degree and does not allow work; Chancenkarte does not require a degree and allows part-time work.
✅ Yes, but only after finding a full-time job and switching to a work visa.
✔ Any skilled job matching your qualifications, including IT, healthcare, engineering, and trades.
❌ No, but having English proficiency at C1/C2 level provides extra points.
❌ No, but you can switch to a work visa after you find a job.
✅ Yes, proof of €12,324 is required unless you have a part-time job offer.
✔ Approximately 70-80%, provided you meet the points threshold.