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Long-stay visas (Type D)

German Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte)

A points-based job-seeker visa letting qualified non-EU nationals enter Germany to look for work without a prior job offer.

Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
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Under review — check current rules

The blocked-account minimum for the job-search period (cited as approx. €1,091/month for 2026) and the exact permitted part-time work hours change periodically and were drawn from search snippets, not a confirmed official fetch. Reverify the current monthly amount and work-hour limits before publishing.

Important information

Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Germany government website before you apply.
On this page
Issued by
German mission abroad; applied for online via the Federal Foreign Office portal
Legal basis
Skilled Immigration Act / Section 20a Residence Act
Points needed
At least 6 points (unless already a recognised skilled worker)
Validity
Up to one year for job search (extendable in defined cases)
Proof of funds
Blocked account or declaration of commitment
A monthly minimum applies (approx. €1,091/month cited for 2026) - verify current figure

Who it's for

  • Skilled non-EU workers who want to job-hunt in Germany without a prior offer
  • People with a foreign qualification who want to pursue recognition on the ground
  • Applicants who can reach six points on qualification, experience, language, age and ties to Germany

Requirements

  • Either a recognised foreign qualification, OR a foreign university degree / at least two years' vocational training plus at least 6 points
  • German at least A1 or English at least B2 (CEFR)
  • Proof of sufficient funds for the job-search period (blocked account or declaration of commitment)
  • Valid passport

What you can do

  • Live in Germany while looking for a qualified job
  • Work part-time up to a weekly limit and take trial employment with prospective employers
  • Switch to a skilled worker visa or EU Blue Card once you have a qualifying job
  • Pursue recognition of your qualification while in Germany

How to apply

Check your points using the official self-check tool and gather evidence for each criterion.

Apply online through the Federal Foreign Office consular services portal, uploading your documents.

Attend an appointment at the German mission for identity verification, biometrics and the fee.

After arrival, register and, once you find qualifying work, apply for the appropriate work residence permit.

Documents

  • Valid passport and biometric photo
  • Proof of qualification (degree or vocational training, or recognition notice)
  • Language certificates (German A1 or English B2)
  • Evidence for claimed points (work experience, age, prior stays in Germany)
  • Proof of funds (blocked account confirmation or declaration of commitment)

Frequently asked questions

  • Yes, on a limited basis. You may work part-time up to a set weekly limit and take trial jobs with potential employers, but the card's main purpose is job-seeking, not full-time employment.

Official sources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.

Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.

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