Opportunity Card Points Calculator
Germany’s Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) lets skilled workers come to job-hunt in the EU WITHOUT an offer first — if you score at least 6 points. Score yourself across recognition, experience, language, age and ties to Germany. Remember the basics (recognised qualification, A1 German or B2 English, and proof of funds) are separate prerequisites. Runs in your browser.
The system
Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) — 6-point job-seeker system
You need at least 6 points (after meeting the qualification + language + funds prerequisites) to get the job-seeker card.
Prerequisites (required, but score no points):
- • Recognised qualification (degree or 2+ yr vocational)
- • At least A1 German or B2 English
- • Proof of funds (≈ €13,092 / year)
- • Valid health insurance
How to use it
Step by step
- 1 First check the prerequisites: a recognised qualification (degree or 2+ year vocational training), at least A1 German or B2 English, and proof of funds (≈ €13,092/year). These gate eligibility but score no points.
- 2 Score your points: qualification recognition (the big one, +4), shortage occupation, professional experience, German level, English C1, age, prior residence and an eligible partner.
- 3 The tool totals your points — you need at least 6.
- 4 If you’re short, see which criteria could add points (language is usually the fastest).
- 5 Confirm everything on Make it in Germany before applying — rules and recognition are assessed individually.
Official sources
Point values reviewed June 2026. Always confirm the current rules with the official authority before you rely on an estimate.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Opportunity Card?
The Chancenkarte (launched June 2024) is a German residence permit valid up to 12 months that lets qualified non-EU workers move to Germany to look for a job — without needing an offer first. You can work part-time (up to 20 hours/week) and do trial jobs while searching. You qualify either as a recognised skilled worker, or through the 6-point system this tool scores.
How do I earn the all-important 4 points?
Four points go to applicants whose foreign qualification has been assessed as equivalent (fully or partially) to a German reference qualification by the competent recognition authority. It’s the single biggest factor — without it, reaching 6 points is much harder.
Can I count both German and English?
German is scored by level (A2 = 1, B1 = 2, B2 or higher = 3). A separate point is available for English at C1 or above. The basic A1-German-or-B2-English requirement is a prerequisite, not a scoring item.
What are the prerequisites beyond points?
Even with 6+ points you must show a recognised qualification, language at A1 German or B2 English, proof of funds for your stay (roughly €13,092 per year, e.g. via a blocked account or part-time work contract), and valid health insurance. Points alone are not enough.
Is this official?
No. It’s an independent estimator built from the published Opportunity Card points system (reviewed June 2026). Only the German authorities decide recognition and eligibility. Confirm on make-it-in-germany.com.
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