Back

Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte, Section 20a)

Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte, Section 20a)

Germany · Exploring

What it is

Points-based residence permit allowing qualified jobseekers to enter Germany and look for skilled employment for up to one year.

Key facts

Category
Exploring
Duration
Up to 1 year initial (extendable if a qualifying contract is secured)
Processing time
Not specified on page
Maximum validity
1 year
Extendable
Yes
Path to permanent residence
No
Dependants
Conditional
Work allowance
20 hours per week
English requirement
B2 (English is an explicit alternative to basic German for the points-based Chancenkarte)
How to apply
Embassy
Health insurance
Required

Standard figures for this route. Some applicants pay a reduced fee or none at all, so confirm your own case on the official page.

Fees

Application fee (national (D) visa to enter)
EUR 75
Application fee (residence permit, issued after arrival)
EUR 100

Key requirements

  • Fully recognised foreign qualification OR at least 6 points in the points system
  • Points awarded for partial qualification recognition (4), shortage occupation (1), experience (2-3), language (up to 3 + English bonus), age, prior stay, partner
  • Minimum German A1 or English B2
  • Proof of means: at least EUR 1,091 net per month (2026) via blocked account or commitment declaration
  • Health insurance for entire stay

Working on this visa

Job-search card: only part-time employment averaging at most 20 hours/week, plus trial employment ('Probebeschäftigung') of up to two weeks that must be qualified / lead to training / support recognition of foreign qualifications (§16d).

Bringing family

Spouse reunification possible under AufenthG §30(1) no. 3(e) where the stay is expected to exceed one year.

Facts checked against the official source. Last updated 27 July 2026.