Germany Opportunity Card Points System Explained 2026: Your Ultimate Guide
There Are you dreaming of building a career in Europe’s economic powerhouse but don’t have a job offer yet? In 2026, the Germany Chance Card (Chancenkarte) remains the most turning pathway for non-EU professionals to enter the country.
Based on the Practiced Immigration Act in Germany, this points-based visa allows you to live in Germany for up to one year to find qualified employment. But how incisively do you score enough points to qualify? This guide is happy to chase down the Chancenkarte points calculator to involve financial aspects like the Blocked Account (€13,092) and the latest 2026 updates to check if your application is successful.
What is the Germany Opportunity Card?
The Possibility Card is a search-and-stay visa that bypasses the longstanding necessity of having a firm job offer before coming. Unlike the old Job Seeker Visa, the Opportunity Card allows you to work up to 20 hours per week in part-time roles and pioneer trial employment (Probearbeit) for two weeks per employer.
The Two Pathways to Eligibility
- The Nonstop Route (Skilled Workers): If your degree is fully established in Germany (Anabin H+ status), you are considered a “skilled worker” and do not essentially need to use the points system.
- The Indirect Route (Points System): If your degree is recognized in your home country but not yet fully equivalent in Germany, you must score at least 6 points to qualify.
The 2026 Chancenkarte Points Calculator: How to Score 6 Points
To follow the points route, you must first meet two bases involved.
- Language: German A1 OR English B2.
- Education: A university degree or at least 2 years of vocational training recognized in your home country.
Once these are met, you can accumulate points across the following categories.
1. Qualification Recognition (Up to 4 Points)
- Point: If your qualification is in a shortage business (Mangelberufe) such as IT attention or discipline.
- Four Points: If you have partial recognition of your foreign vocation qualification (Statement of Likeness from ZAB).
2. Professional Experience (Up to 3 Points)
- Points: At least 5 years of work education (within the last 7 years) on your parcel of land.
- Points: At least 2 years of work experience (within the last 5 years).
3. Language Proficiency (Up to 4 Points)
- Points: German B2 or higher.
- Points: German B1 plane.
- Point: German A2 level.
- Point: English C1 level (bonus point).
4. Age Criteria (Up to 2 Points)
- Points: Under 35 years of age.
- Point: Between 35 and 40 years old.
5. Bonus Points (1 Point Each)
- Previous Stay: If you lived in Germany lawfully for at least 6 consecutive months in the last 5 years (holidaymaker stays excluded).
- Joint Application: 1 point if you and your spouse apply for the Opportunity Card together.
Also Read:Switzerland Employer Sponsorship Cost Breakdown 2026
Financial Requirements: The 2026 Blocked Account
One of the most faultfinding parts of your application is proving financial order. For 2026 the German government has updated the required amounts.
- Monthly Requirement: €1,091
- Total Annual Savings: €13,092
Most applicants use a blocked account (Sperrkonto) finished by caterers like Fintiba or Expatrio. As an alternative, you can provide a Bidding of Allegiance (Verpflichtungserklärung) from a resident in Germany who agrees to cover your costs.
Pro Tip: Ensure your health security for the job try is proactive from day one of your arrival, as this is a receiver legal requirement under Section 20a of the Abode Act.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying in 2026
- Verify Your Degree: Check your university status on the Anabin information. If it’s not “H+”, apply for a Message of Similarity (ZAB).
- Take Language Tests: Book your exams with accepted bodies like the Goethe-Institut (for German) or IELTS/TOEFL (for English).
- Open a Blocked Account: Substance the required €13,092 to receive your confirmation document.
- Prepare a Status Letter: Intelligibly state which industry you are sporty for and why Germany is your choice.
- Book an Appointment: Use the Make it in Germany Portal or the German Delegation website in your country to schedule your visa interview.
(FAQs): Germany Opportunity Card Points System Explained 2026
Can I bring my family on a Possibility Card?
but they must run into their own visa requirements. If you apply together, you can earn a “Joint Application” point.
What takes place after my one year is up?
If you find a job that pays the compulsory threshold, you can transition to an EU Blue Card or a standard employment address permit without leaving Germany.
Is there a quota for the Opportunity Card?
While the government reminder numbers are there, there is presently no hard “cap” for 2026, though limited embassies may have limited appointment slots.
Final Thoughts: Is the Opportunity Card Worth It?
The 2026 points system is designed to be exclusive. Even if you are over 35 or don’t speak fluent German, you can reach the 6-point minimum through high English technique and solid work experience.
Would you like me to calculate a sample point score based on your specific age, experience, and language levels?
Disclaimer
This article is for informational and educational functions only. Readers are advised to verify details from trusted sources, such as the official German Embassy or the “Make it in Germany” portal, before making a choice.