Germany job seeker visa 2026: the Opportunity Card
Germany's old job seeker visa has been replaced by the Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte), introduced in June 2024. Here is who qualifies, how the points work and what it costs.
What is the Opportunity Card?
The Opportunity Card lets qualified non-EU citizens live in Germany for up to one year while they look for a job, without a job offer in advance. During that year you may work part-time to support yourself and do trial work with possible employers. When you find a suitable job, you switch to a work residence permit or an EU Blue Card.
Basic requirements
- A qualification: a university degree or at least two years of vocational training that is recognised by the state in the country where you got it. If your qualification is fully recognised in Germany, you qualify directly without points.
- Language: at least German A1 or English B2.
- Money to live on: about €1,091 a month for 2026, usually shown with a blocked bank account, or a formal declaration of commitment from someone in Germany.
- At least 6 points in the points system, unless your qualification is fully recognised.
How the points work
| Criterion | Points |
|---|---|
| Partial recognition of your qualification in Germany | up to 4 |
| Professional experience in your field | up to 3 |
| German or English language skills | up to 3 |
| Age (under 35 scores highest) | up to 2 |
| Previous legal stay in Germany | 1 |
| Spouse who also qualifies and applies with you | 1 |
Working while you search
Opportunity Card holders can work part-time up to 20 hours a week and do trial work with an employer. This helps cover living costs, but you should not plan to live on part-time work alone, which is why the funds requirement exists.
How to apply from India, Sri Lanka or other Asian countries
- Check your points and the recognition of your qualification on the official Make it in Germany website.
- Get your language certificate and prepare proof of funds.
- Book an appointment at the German embassy or its visa centre for your country and submit your application.
- After arrival, search for work; once you have an offer, apply for a work residence permit or EU Blue Card.
Rules and amounts change. Always confirm the current requirements on official German government websites before applying.
Frequently asked questions
Does Germany still have a job seeker visa?
The old job seeker visa was replaced in June 2024 by the Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte), which works in a similar way but uses a points system.
How much money do I need for the Germany Opportunity Card?
For 2026 the German government lists about €1,091 per month, usually shown through a blocked account, or a declaration of commitment from a sponsor in Germany.
Can I work on the Opportunity Card?
Yes, part-time up to 20 hours a week, plus trial work with potential employers. Once you find a qualifying job, you switch to a work permit or EU Blue Card.
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