Germany Opportunity Card
A points-based card that lets qualified people come to Germany to look for work, with limited work permitted while searching.
Overview
The Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) lets qualified people enter Germany to look for work. A points system rewards qualifications, language skills, experience, age and ties to Germany.
Key points
Who can apply
- Applicants with a recognised degree or vocational qualification
- Applicants who reach the points threshold
- Applicants with proof of funds
Eligibility details
- A recognised foreign degree or a vocational qualification of at least two years
- Enough points for qualifications, language skills, work experience, age and ties to Germany
- Proof that you can support yourself during your stay
- Part-time work (up to a set number of hours) and trial work are allowed while you search
- Apply at the German embassy or consulate in your country
How the process works
- Check your pointsCount qualifications, language, experience and age
- Check recognitionMake sure your qualification is recognised in Germany
- Prepare fundsShow proof you can support yourself
- Apply for the cardBook an appointment and submit documents
- Arrive and searchUse your time in Germany to find a job
How OvalArc helps
- Free assessmentWe review your age, education, work history and language score.
- Route planYou receive options with costs and timelines in writing.
- DocumentsWe prepare and check every document before filing.
- Filing and follow-upWe submit, track and respond to the authority.
Costs and timelines
- Government application and biometrics fees
- Language test and credential or skills assessment fees
- Medical exam, police certificates and translations
- Our service fee, set out in your written agreement
Government fees and processing times change. Your adviser gives the current figures from the official source.
Documents we usually need
- Valid passport
- Education certificates and mark sheets
- Work experience and reference letters
- Language test result (IELTS, CELPIP, TEF or other)
- Police clearance and medical when required
- Proof of funds and civil documents
The exact list depends on your case.
Mistakes to avoid
- Submitting documents that do not match each other
- Missing deadlines in an invitation or request letter
- Hiding past refusals or travel history
- Relying on outdated rules from old web pages
Common questions
Can you guarantee approval?
No. Only the immigration authority decides. We improve the quality of your application and tell you the real odds.
How long does it take?
Processing times change. Your adviser gives the current official estimate during your consultation.
What if my application is refused?
We review the refusal reasons with you and explain your options, such as reapplying with stronger evidence or choosing another route.
Can my family come with me?
Often yes. Spouses and dependent children can usually be included or can follow, depending on the route.
Please note: OvalArc is a private advisory service and not a government agency. Decisions are made only by the relevant authorities and no outcome is guaranteed. Rules, fees and processing times change often, so please confirm on the official government website.
Not sure which route suits you?
Share your details for a free assessment. We reply with honest options, including the ones we would not recommend.
Get a free assessment