Job Spectra
Job Spectra
Under §20a of the German Residence Act, the Opportunity Card lets you look for work in Germany for up to one year. You need a recognised foreign qualification (a state-recognised degree or at least two years of recognised vocational training), at least basic German or English at B2, secured living costs, and enough points under the §20b points table, or to already count as a skilled worker.
What are the requirements for the Germany Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte)?
Under §20a of the German Residence Act, the Opportunity Card lets you look for work in Germany for up to one year. You need a recognised foreign qualification (a state-recognised degree or at least two years of recognised vocational training), at least basic German or English at B2, secured living costs, and enough points under the §20b points table, or to already count as a skilled worker.
The statute awards points for criteria such as qualification, work experience, German and English language skills, age, previous stays in Germany and a partner applying jointly. The exact values sit in the appendix to the Residence Act, and the German government publishes them for applicants. Check the official table before you apply. Our free Germany Chancenkarte points calculator gives an indicative score, using 6 points as the threshold; it is not an official decision. Try the Germany Chancenkarte points calculator.
Apply through the German mission responsible for your place of residence. See also how this route differs from the permit in §20 in our job seeker visa vs Opportunity Card comparison, and the job-based EU Blue Card. The German Federal Foreign Office and the Make it in Germany portal list the current documents, fees and appointment steps, which change over time.
Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Information only, not legal advice.
Up to one year initially. Under §20a it can be extended up to two years if you find a job and the employment agency approves, where another residence permit is not available.
Yes, part-time for up to 20 hours a week, and in trial employment of up to two weeks per employer.
You need at least simple German or English at B2 level, according to §20a of the German Residence Act.
The values are in the appendix referred to by §20b of the Residence Act (gesetze-im-internet.de), and the Make it in Germany portal explains them for applicants.