Don’t have a job offer yet? With the opportunity card ("Chancenkarte"), qualified skilled workers from non-EU countries can enter Germany to look for a job if they meet certain requirements. Find out which requirements apply, how to apply, and what options you have after entering Germany.
Make use of the information material to ensure you are fully prepared for arriving in and starting your life in Germany. The brochure and infographic guide you through the entire process step by step – from your visa and arrival right through to your first few weeks.
This infographic guides you step by step through the visa and entry process from third countries. It shows all stages at a glance: checking the requirements, submitting your application, attending the embassy appointment, entering Germany, and applying for your residence title.
PDF, 1 page
This brochure is your practical companion for starting your new life in Germany. You will find everything you need to know about your journey with the opportunity card: arriving, finding accommodation, learning the language and looking for a job. A clear checklist also supports you during your first few weeks.
PDF, 11 pages
Do you always have to apply for an opportunity card? What qualifications and supporting documents do you need? Here you will find answers regarding the application process, the period of validity, family reunification, and switching to a residence title for employment.
Yes, you can enter Germany with the opportunity card to look for a job in order to find qualified employment or to become self-employed. The opportunity card is initially issued for a maximum of one year. During this time, you must be able to support yourself financially.
You can find out what requirements you must meet for the opportunity card in the section “Job search opportunity card” section.
Further detailed information on the opportunity card can also be found in the section “Questions and answers regarding the opportunity card” section.
Having an opportunity card is not a condition to come to Germany. Whether you need it depends on the country you are coming from and why you would like to come to Germany. The opportunity card is the right choice if one of the following scenarios applies to you:
With the Quick-Check, you can quickly find out which options you have for entering Germany.
If you have a foreign university degree or a foreign professional qualification, there are two ways to receive the opportunity card: if your degree or qualification is recognised as equivalent to a German degree or qualification, you can immediately apply for the opportunity as a skilled worker, without having to score points. Otherwise, you must score at least six points in the points system – aside from meeting other requirements. Read more about both options in the “Job search opportunity card” section.
In Germany, qualified skilled workers are sought after in various fields of work. Generally, immigrating to Germany for work is possible in all industries. Especially skilled workers in the following professions and industries have good chances on the German labour market:
Please find more information on in-demand professions in the “Professions in demand” article.
Do you have any questions about visas, jobs or life in Germany? Here you will find the right advice and support services: a hotline, a live chat, an email contact form, webinars and events, as well as in-person advice centres in Germany and abroad.
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