Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) Germany 2025: the points system in plain language

I advise companies and skilled professionals on German migration and employment law. Here is a clear guide to the Opportunity Card—what it is, how the points work, and how to move fast without mistakes.

Why this matters now

The Opportunity Card is Germany’s new route for coming to look for qualified work. It is practical if you do not yet have a German job offer. Used correctly, it cuts time-to-hire and avoids repeat filings. Used poorly, it stalls. This article shows the exact rules for 2025 and a simple plan to follow.

Two ways to qualify

Option 1 — Recognised qualification (no points needed)

If your foreign vocational or academic qualification is fully recognised in Germany—or you obtained it in Germany—you can qualify without the points system.

Option 2 — Points-based route (you need at least 6 points)

If your foreign qualification is not yet fully recognised, you can qualify with the points system. You must reach at least six (6) points and meet the baseline requirements below.

Baseline requirements (both options)

Language: German at least A1 or English at least B2 (CEFR).
Formal qualification: completed vocational training (normally ≥ 2 years) or an academic degree recognised in the country where you earned it.
Financial means: ability to cover living costs during job search (for 2025, a blocked account is typically set with a minimum of €1,091 net per month) or a formal declaration of commitment.

How the points are awarded (Option 2)

You collect points across several criteria. Evidence is required for every point you claim.

Partial recognition of your qualification: +4 points (including required compensatory measures for regulated professions).
Shortage occupation: +1 point if your formal qualification is in an occupation Germany lists as in short supply.
Professional experience (related to your qualification):
- ≥ 2 years within the last 5 years: +2 points
- ≥ 5 years within the last 7 years: +3 points
Language beyond the baseline:
- German A2: +1 point
- German B1: +2 points
- German B2 or higher: +3 points
- English C1 or native: +1 extra point
Age: ≤ 35 years: +2 points; 35–39 years: +1 point.
Previous legal stay in Germany: continuous ≥ 6 months in the last 5 years (study/language/work): +1 point.
Partner’s skilled worker potential: if your spouse/partner also meets Opportunity Card requirements: +1 point.

Remember: you still need to meet the baseline language + qualification + financial means. The points come on top.

Rights and limits of the Opportunity Card

Purpose: job search in Germany for qualified employment; self-employment to explore options is possible.
Validity: initially up to 12 months.
Work while searching: part-time up to 20 hours per week plus job trials up to 2 weeks per employer.
Extension: if you find a fitting job but no other residence title is available yet, an extension of the Opportunity Card can be granted (up to two years in total).

My step-by-step plan (what I tell clients)

Choose your route. Check if your qualification can be fully recognised now (Option 1). If not, map your points (Option 2).
Secure the baseline. Prove language (DE A1 or EN B2), qualification (degree or ≥ 2-year vocational training), and financial means.
Collect evidence for points. Partial recognition letters, experience certificates, proof of shortage occupation, language certificates, previous stays, partner documents.
Apply at the right place. If abroad, apply at the competent German mission. If already in Germany with a valid title, contact your local foreigners authority.
Use your time well. Network, apply, take lawful part-time roles, and do short job trials. Move towards a qualified employment title quickly.

Quick self-check (copy this)

I meet the language baseline (DE A1 or EN B2).
I have a completed degree or ≥ 2-year vocational training recognised in my home country.
I can prove financial means for up to 12 months (blocked account or declaration of commitment).
For Option 2, I can document at least 6 points with proper evidence.
I understand what jobs count as “qualified employment” for the next step.

Common pitfalls that cause refusals or delays

Claiming points without documents: every point needs a certificate or official proof.
Ignoring the language baseline: DE A1 or EN B2 is mandatory even before scoring points.
Qualification mismatch: the role you target must fit your formal qualification when you switch to an employment title.
Underfunding: blocked account below the current threshold or missing declaration of commitment.
Waiting too long to plan the next title: use the 12 months to secure an employment-based residence title.

FAQs

How many points do I need?

At least six. Points only matter for Option 2. If your qualification is fully recognised in Germany (or obtained here), you can use Option 1 without points.

Is English enough?

Yes, for the baseline you can show English at B2. Stronger German still helps you score more points and find work faster.

Can I work while searching?

Yes. You may work part-time up to 20 hours per week and complete job trials up to two weeks per employer.

Can my spouse come with me?

Family reunion depends on the specific title and situation. If your partner also qualifies for an Opportunity Card, both of you may apply. For family reunion rules, check with the competent mission or authority for your case.

What happens after I find a job?

You switch to a residence title for qualified employment. If no other title fits yet but your job qualifies, an Opportunity Card extension can be granted.

Related legal work

I advise at the intersection of migration and employment law—recognition strategy, contracts, probation, non-compete, and remote-work terms. This joined-up approach keeps immigration, onboarding and compliance aligned from day one.

Call to action

Schedule a personal consultation. I will map your points, review your documents, and prepare a clean application so you can use your 12 months effectively.

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