What Is the Chancenkarte?
The Chancenkarte (§ 20a Residence Act) is a new visa that has been available in Germany since November 2023. Introduced under the Skilled Immigration Act 2023, it allows qualified professionals from non-EU countries to enter Germany for up to one year to actively search for a suitable job — without needing to present a concrete job offer in advance.
The Chancenkarte is Germany's answer to a severe shortage of skilled workers across nearly all sectors.
The Points System: Which Criteria Count?
The Chancenkarte works on a points system. You need at least 6 points from the following categories:
Criterion Points
Qualification in a German shortage occupation 1
German language skills (A1 or higher) 1
English language skills (C1 or higher) 1
Work experience (at least 2 years in the last 5 years) 1
Age under 35 1
Previous stays in Germany (at least 6 months in the last 5 years) 1
Recognition of qualification in Germany 1
In addition: if you hold a recognised university degree and have work experience, you can automatically reach 6 points.
Requirements and Documents
Basic Requirements
- Qualification: recognised vocational or university qualification (in Germany or equivalently recognised)
- Sufficient points: at least 6 points in the points system
- Secure livelihood: you must prove you can finance your stay in Germany (personal savings, partner's income, etc.)
- Health insurance coverage from the first day in Germany
Required Documents
- Valid passport
- Biometric photo
- Certified copy of degree certificate (with translation into German if not in German or English)
- Where applicable: recognition statement from ZAB or the competent recognition authority
- Proof of language skills (German and/or English)
- Proof of financial means (bank statements for the last 3 months, blocked account)
- Completed application form from the German consulate
Chancenkarte vs. EU Blue Card: What Is the Difference?
Criterion Chancenkarte EU Blue Card
Job offer required No Yes
Minimum salary No Yes (€45,300/€41,042)
Validity 1 year 4 years
Family reunification Restricted Immediate
Work permitted Up to 20 hrs/week or 2-week trial Full-time
Purpose Job search on the spot Direct employment
The Chancenkarte is the first step for skilled workers without a concrete job offer. Once a job is found, the Chancenkarte is converted into a regular work permit (e.g. EU Blue Card or § 18 visa).
What to Do After Entering Germany with the Chancenkarte
- Anmeldung at your municipality's civic office within 14 days
- Job search: job boards on Indeed, Stepstone, LinkedIn, EURES (EU job portal), Federal Employment Agency
- Networking: attend job fairs, career events and industry networks
- Trial work: with the Chancenkarte you may undertake up to 2 weeks of trial work to get to know each other before committing
- Switch residence title: once you have a contract, apply at the Ausländerbehörde for the appropriate residence permit (EU Blue Card, § 18 AufenthG, etc.)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I already work in Germany with the Chancenkarte? Only on a limited basis: up to 20 hours per week or trial work of up to 2 weeks. Full-time work is only possible with the corresponding residence permit.
Can the Chancenkarte be extended? No. The Chancenkarte is limited to 1 year. An extension is not provided for — if successful, you receive a different residence title.
What happens if I do not find a job within 1 year? You must leave Germany. A new application is possible, but there is no guarantee of approval.
Which occupations is the Chancenkarte particularly suited for? All occupations where Germany faces a shortage: IT, engineering, medicine, nursing, skilled trades, logistics.
Your Entry into the German Labour Market
The Chancenkarte offers a unique opportunity to apply locally and discover the German job market. Our experts help you apply for the Chancenkarte and optimise your job search in Germany.