Germany has clarified that two groups of foreign nationals may qualify for its Opportunity Card without going through the standard points-based competition.
The residence permit, known as the Chancenkarte, enables non-European Union nationals to enter Germany to search for employment or pursue recognition of their foreign professional qualifications.
The permit is valid for up to one year and provides a route for skilled workers seeking opportunities in the European country.
How Germany’s points system works
Most applicants must obtain at least six points to qualify for the Opportunity Card.
The assessment considers factors including an applicant’s qualifications, existing skills, language ability and personal circumstances.
This means many candidates must meet the required threshold before they can use the route.
However, Germany’s Federal Foreign Office has confirmed that two categories are exempt from the minimum points requirement.
Who can skip the points requirement
1. Individuals who hold a vocational qualification or university degree that was either obtained in Germany or has been formally recognized there. These applicants can apply directly as skilled workers under the Opportunity Card without accumulating any minimum points score.
2. The second category is not separately defined by the points system but falls under the broader “as a skilled worker” provision, which sidesteps the standard eligibility competition altogether.
For applicants who secure employment in Germany while on the Opportunity Card, there is a pathway to extend their stay.
Those who receive an employment contract or a binding job offer for qualified work during their one-year period can apply to the local foreigners authority for either a follow-up Opportunity Card or a separate residence permit for gainful employment, provided they meet the relevant conditions at that time.
