Germany’s job-seeker visa gains momentum as it marks first anniversary

One year after its launch, Germany’s Opportunity Card (‘Chancenkarte’) visa scheme is gaining momentum as a pathway for non-EU skilled workers to enter the country and search for employment. Introduced under Section 20a of the German Residence Act, the visa allows qualified third-country nationals to stay in Germany for up to 12 months to seek work or have their foreign qualifications recognised.

As of mid-June 2025, over 11,000 Opportunity Cards had been issued — with India, China and Turkey topping the list of recipient countries. Although short of the federal government’s projection of 30,000 annual applicants, officials say the programme is now showing strong growth, especially with recent improvements in processing.

A major boost came on 1 January 2025 when Germany’s Federal Foreign Office launched its Consular Services Portal, enabling digital applications. While a physical appointment at a German mission is still required, the streamlined online system is expected to further increase uptake.

The visa is aimed at skilled individuals — both university-educated and those with vocational training — who do not yet have a job offer but wish to connect with employers or pursue recognition of their qualifications in Germany. A points-based system helps determine eligibility, and a digital Self-Check tool on the “Make it in Germany” portal shows that two-thirds of users meet the criteria.

Employers benefit too: they can assess candidates already in the country, conduct in-person interviews and offer trials, all before full employment begins. Visa holders are permitted to work part-time (up to 20 hours/week) and take language courses while job-hunting.

Though still in its early stages, the Opportunity Card is proving to be a promising new tool in Germany’s quest to attract global talent and ease labour shortages across sectors.

Read a detailed report on the Opportunity Card’s first anniversary on the website of Make-it-in-Germany HERE