Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte)
Skilled jobseekers who score enough points to look for qualified work in Germany.
The Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) is a German work & skilled visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~€75) and processing time (~4-8 weeks), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) is for
Skilled jobseekers who score enough points to look for qualified work in Germany.
Switch to a skilled-worker permit or Blue Card once you find qualifying work.
Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) - eligibility criteria
- Recognised qualification, OR a degree/vocational training plus 6 points
- Points for experience, age, language and Germany ties
- Proof of funds to support yourself (or part-time work)
- Basic German (A1) or English (B2)
- Health insurance coverage
Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) (Germany) is ~€75, with an indicative processing time of ~4-8 weeks. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Make it in Germany / BAMF.
| Type | Points-based |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | At a German consulate abroad |
| Length of stay | Up to 1 year (extendable up to 2) |
| Work rights | Part-time work (20 hrs/week) and trial jobs while searching |
| Study rights | No formal study |
| Government fee | ~€75 |
| Processing time | ~4-8 weeks |
| Route to PR | Switch to a skilled-worker permit or Blue Card once you find qualifying work. |
Pathway & next steps
Switch to a skilled-worker permit or Blue Card once you find qualifying work.
Many applicants also compare Job Seeker · Job Seeker Visa for Qualified Professionals, Skilled Worker · Skilled Worker Visa (Fachkräfte, §18a/§18b), EU Blue Card · EU Blue Card (Blaue Karte EU). Run a free VisaChief check to see which German route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) pitfalls we fix
Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) - frequently asked questions
How much does the Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) cost?
The Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) government fee is ~€75. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Make it in Germany / BAMF before applying.
How long does the Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~4-8 weeks. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) lead to permanent residence?
Switch to a skilled-worker permit or Blue Card once you find qualifying work.
Can I work on the Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte)?
Work rights: Part-time work (20 hrs/week) and trial jobs while searching.
Who can apply for the Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte)?
Skilled jobseekers who score enough points to look for qualified work in Germany.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Germany government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Make it in Germany / BAMF - official Germany immigration authority