The Opportunity Card: Your Direct Pathway to a New Life in Germany.
Tired of Waiting for the Perfect Job Offer to Move to Germany? Discover the Opportunity Card – a progressive pathway introduced in June 2024, created to help talented individuals from outside the EU enter Germany and secure qualified employment.
Officially known as the Chancenkarte, the German Opportunity Card is a residence permit designed to attract skilled workers from non-EU countries.
What sets this initiative apart is its flexibility. You can move to Germany without a pre-arranged job offer and are granted up to 12 months to find employment that matches your qualifications, while living and exploring opportunities directly within the country.
How The Opportunity Card Can Benefit You?
Direct Access to the German Job Market
Forget the hurdles of securing a job offer from afar. The German Opportunity Card provides you with direct entry into Germany, allowing you to actively search for employment within the country's dynamic economy.
Up to 12 Months for Your Job Search
Benefit from a substantial period of up to 12 months residing in Germany. This gives you ample time on the ground to explore various companies, network with potential employers, and find a position that perfectly matches your skills and career aspirations.
Opportunity to Work Part-Time
Support yourself financially while you search for full-time employment. The Chancenkarte Germany allows you to take up part-time work (up to 20 hours per week), helping with living expenses and providing valuable German work experience.
Pathway to Long-Term Residency
Securing qualified employment while on the Opportunity Card is your stepping stone to long-term stability. It opens the door to transitioning to a German work permit and, ultimately, provides a potential pathway to permanent residency in Germany.
Streamlined Process for Skilled Workers
Designed with skilled professionals in mind, the German Opportunity Card simplifies the relocation process compared to some previous visa categories. It addresses Germany's need for skilled talent by creating a more accessible entry route.
Gain Experience Through Trial Work
Explore potential roles and employers firsthand. The German Opportunity Card permits you to undertake trial work for up to two weeks, offering valuable insights into different companies and positions.
Who is Eligible for the Opportunity Card?
Determining eligibility for the German Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) is key to your plans. There are two main ways to qualify, depending on your professional background.
Pathway 1: Qualify Directly (Recognised Skilled Worker)
Explore potential roles and employers firsthand. The German Opportunity Card permits you to undertake trial work for up to two weeks, offering valuable insights into different companies and positions.
Even via this direct route, you must still meet the basic requirements for language skills (German A1 or English B2) and show you have enough funds to support yourself in Germany.
Pathway 2: Qualify with Points (Minimum 6 Points Needed)
If your qualification is valid in your home country but not yet fully recognised as equivalent in Germany, you can still qualify! You need to meet these Basic Requirements AND earn at least 6 points from the points system criteria below.
Basic Requirements for this Pathway:
- Your Qualification: Hold a recognised university degree (at least 2 years) or vocational training (at least 2 years) from your home country.
- Language: Prove basic German (A1) OR good English (B2) skills from a recognised test.
- Funds: Show you can cover your living costs in Germany (around €1,027 per month currently). Proof is often via a Blocked Account or sponsor.
Opportunity Card Points At-a-Glance
| Criteria | Condition | Points Awarded |
|---|---|---|
| Qualification Recognition | Partial Equivalence / Compensatory Measures Required | 4 points |
| Professional Experience | 5+ years (in last 7 years) | 3 points |
| 2-4 years (in last 5 years) | 2 points | |
| German Language Skills | B2 Level or higher (CEFR) | 3 points |
| B1 Level (CEFR) | 2 points | |
| A2 Level (CEFR) | 1 point | |
| English Language Skills | C1 Level or higher (CEFR) | 1 point |
| Age | Under 35 years | 2 points |
| 35 - 40 years | 1 point | |
| Connection to Germany | Previous Legal Stay (6+ months in last 5 years) | 1 point |
| Qualification/Experience | In a designated Shortage Occupation ('Mangelberuf') | 1 point |
| Spouse/Partner Application | Spouse/Partner also qualifies and applies concurrently | 1 point |
| Minimum Required Points | 6 points |
Frequently Asked Question
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Why is Atlantis Migration known as the Best German Consultancy in Kochi?
Atlantis Migration has earned a reputation as the Best German Consultancy in Kochi by offering expert, up-to-date guidance on visa rules, document processing, and post-landing support. We stay informed on policy changes in Germany so our clients don’t get caught off guard. That continual updating ensures a smooth and reliable experience for those seeking migration.
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What services does Atlantis Migration provide for German migration?
As the Best German Consultancy in Kochi, Atlantis Migration offers services such as skilled worker visa processing, recognition of professional qualifications, job search assistance, and language exam preparation. We also assist with document attestation, translation, and interview readiness. Our holistic support covers every step of the migration journey.
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Is there any recent update in German migration law I should know about?
Yes — Germany recently made significant changes to migration and citizenship policies. In May 2025, the government restricted family reunification rights for migrants with “subsidiary protection” status by suspending it for two years and also eliminated the fast-track citizenship provision for three-year residency, now requiring a minimum of five years.
These changes directly affect applicants and are especially relevant when choosing a consultancy — the Best German Consultancy in Kochi must be aware of these shifts to guide you effectively. -
How does Atlantis Migration help skilled professionals migrate to Germany?
We evaluate your education, work experience, and language proficiency to identify appropriate visa routes. Then, using our expertise as the Best German Consultancy in Kochi, we assist in matching you with German employers and preparing applications. Every step is tailored for success under current German rules.
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Do I need to learn German before migrating via Atlantis Migration?
Yes, language competence is often required by German immigration authorities. We support clients with A1/B1 German training or provide guidance to registered language centers. As the Best German Consultancy in Kochi, we ensure your language credentials align with Germany’s updated expectations during visa review.
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How long does the migration process take with Atlantis Migration?
Processing times vary depending on visa category and document readiness. Typically, from application to approval may take 4 to 12 months. As the Best German Consultancy in Kochi, we streamline processes and monitor changes (like policy shifts) to avoid delays.
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Can Atlantis Migration assist migrants in obtaining family visas under current restrictions?
While Germany has recently restricted family reunification for certain groups (i.e., those with subsidiary protection) for two years, our team monitors eligibility and advises accordingly.
As the Best German Consultancy in Kochi, we help you explore alternative pathways or prepare to apply when restrictions ease.
