The Opportunity Card, called Chancenkarte in German, lets skilled foreigners enter Germany to look for work without a job offer. It started on 1 June 2024 as part of Germany’s skilled immigration reforms. The card does not guarantee a job, but it gives time to search, interview and work part-time while you search. This guide explains the points system, the requirements, the money you must show and the steps to apply.
What the Card Allows
- Entry to Germany for up to one year to look for a qualified job.
- Part-time work of up to 20 hours a week while searching.
- Trial employment of up to two weeks in a row with an employer, to see if the job fits.
- Switching to a work or skilled-worker residence permit once you find a suitable job.
Basic Requirements
You can apply under two broad conditions. The first is that you already have a qualification that is fully recognised in Germany. The second is that you have a qualification that is at least partly recognised or that is considered comparable, and you collect enough points in the points system. For many Nigerian applicants, the points route is the main option.
- A university degree or a vocational qualification of at least two years of training, which is recognised or comparable in Germany. You can check this in the Anabin database for degrees and the Make it in Germany portal.
- Basic German at level A1 or English at level B2, with proof from an accepted test.
- Proof that you can cover your living costs during the stay, for example with a blocked account, a declaration of commitment or income from permitted work.
- A health insurance plan valid for the first period of stay.
- No criminal record that would stop entry.
The Points System
You need at least six points. The table shows the main categories in simplified form. Read the exact scoring on the official Make it in Germany site, because the details are important.
| Factor | How Points Are Earned |
|---|---|
| Qualification | Points for a recognised or comparable qualification, with more for a qualification that is fully recognised |
| Professional experience | Points for at least two years of experience in the last five years, with more for five years in the last seven |
| German language | More points for higher levels from A1 up to B2 |
| English language | Points for English at a stated level, although the minimum is B2 for the entry requirement |
| Age | Extra points for applicants under 35, and fewer points for those under 40 |
| Connection to Germany | A point for earlier stays in Germany of a set length |
| Spouse or partner | A point if your partner will also move and meets the requirements |
| Shortage occupation | A point if your profession is in a shortage field |
Proof of Funds
Germany asks applicants to show that they can pay their living costs. The common way is a blocked account, in which you deposit a set amount and withdraw a fixed monthly sum after arrival. The required amount is based on the German basic monthly rate and is updated from time to time. Check the current amount on the website of the German mission that handles your application. Do not use an old figure from a social media post.
Documents Checklist
- Valid passport with enough blank pages.
- Completed national visa application form.
- Biometric photos.
- Degree certificates, transcripts and vocational certificates, with certified translations if the embassy asks.
- Evidence of recognition or comparability, such as the Anabin result or a recognition notice.
- Language certificates for German or English.
- CV that shows work history with dates and employers.
- Employer reference letters with duties and dates.
- Proof of funds, such as the blocked account confirmation.
- Health insurance confirmation.
- Points calculation sheet and a short motivation letter.
Step-by-Step Process
- Check your profession and qualification on the Make it in Germany site and the recognition database.
- Calculate your points honestly with the official tool.
- Book an English or German test if you need one.
- Open a blocked account and arrange health insurance.
- Book an appointment with the German embassy or consulate responsible for your region. Waiting times can be long, so book early.
- Attend the appointment, submit documents and pay the visa fee.
- Wait for the decision, then travel to Germany with the visa.
- Register your address, complete the residence steps and start searching.
Searching for a Job While You Are There
- Use the Federal Employment Agency job board and the Make it in Germany portal.
- Write a German-style CV, usually clear, factual and without a long personal profile.
- Apply to companies that already hire international staff.
- Use your trial work period to show your skills.
- Keep improving your German. Many employers prefer it even for English-speaking roles.
After You Find a Job
Once you have a job, you apply to the local foreigners’ office to change from the Opportunity Card to another permit, such as the EU Blue Card or a residence permit for qualified employment. The job must match your qualification and meet salary rules. Some regulated professions, such as nursing and medicine, need a licence to practise before you can work in the profession.
Common Reasons for Refusal
- Not enough points, or points claimed without proof.
- A qualification that is not recognised or comparable.
- Missing or expired language certificate.
- Insufficient proof of funds.
- Documents that are inconsistent, such as dates that do not match between the CV and reference letters.
- Applying for a regulated profession without understanding the licence rules.
Scam Warning
The German government does not sell Opportunity Cards through agents. Be careful with anyone who promises a job in Germany for a fee or says they can guarantee your appointment. Use the official embassy booking system and keep your own copies of all documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a job offer?
No. This is the main idea of the card.
Can I bring my family?
Family reunification rules apply, but the card is mainly for the applicant. Check the current rules and the funds you must show.
Can I study with the card?
The card is for job search and work, not for degree studies, so use the correct visa for study.
How long does it take?
Waiting for embassy appointments and processing can take weeks or months, so start early.
Final Thoughts
The Opportunity Card is a useful route for qualified Nigerians who can score enough points and show funds. Verify your qualification, collect honest proof for every point and prepare for a real job search in Germany. Rely on the Make it in Germany portal and the embassy for current requirements.