Germany Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte): Points & Eligibility

The Chancenkarte, or Opportunity Card, is Germany's points-based job seeker visa. It allows qualified non-EU nationals to move to Germany for up to one year to search for skilled employment without needing a job offer first.

There are two entry paths. If you already meet Germany's full recognition of a foreign qualification — either as a recognised professional qualification or a degree recognised through the anabin database — you can apply directly. If you do not, you can still qualify through the points system.

The points system requires a minimum of six points. Points come from partial qualification recognition, work experience (two years is worth points, five years is worth more), German language skills from A1 upwards, English at B2 or higher, age (younger applicants score higher), and previous ties to Germany including prior legal stays.

Financial proof is mandatory. In 2026 you must show sufficient means to support yourself, typically demonstrated through a blocked account or a formal declaration of financial support from a sponsor. The exact monthly minimum is set by the Federal Government and updates each year.

During the year in Germany you may work part-time up to a set weekly limit and take on trial employment (probearbeit) for up to two weeks per employer. Once you receive a qualifying job offer you can transition to a full residence permit for employment such as the EU Blue Card or the Skilled Worker permit.

Documents to prepare: passport, qualification certificates with recognised translation, language certificates, CV in German or English, proof of financial means, and evidence of any prior legal stays in Germany.

Travel Network Portal calculates your accurate Chancenkarte points score, manages qualification recognition through the correct German authority, sets up a compliant blocked account and prepares the full visa application. Start with Travel Network Portal or email info@travelnetworkportal.com.