Who can get the Opportunity Card?

Someone whose degree or vocational qualification is recognised in Germany (a skilled worker) qualifies without points. Otherwise you need a university degree or at least two years of state-recognised vocational training, German A1 or English B2, and at least 6 points.

How much money do I need for the Chancenkarte?

€1,091 a month for the time you plan to stay, according to the German missions in India: about ₹1,18,919 a month, or ₹14,27,028 for a full year. A blocked account or a formal declaration of commitment is accepted.

Can I work on the Opportunity Card?

Yes: up to 20 hours a week on average, and trial jobs of up to 2 weeks at a time while you look for qualified work.

How long is the Opportunity Card valid?

Up to 12 months. With a contract or binding offer for qualified work and the Federal Employment Agency’s approval it can be extended by up to 2 years; with a fitting job you can also switch to an EU Blue Card or a skilled-worker permit.

Jobs · India → Germany

Chancenkarte (Opportunity Card) from India: points, money and how to apply

The Opportunity Card lets people with a degree or vocational training go to Germany for up to 12 months to look for a job. You qualify as a recognised skilled worker, or with at least 6 points.

Figures last confirmed 1 October 2026 against the official sources linked below.

The basic requirements (points route)

A university degree, or vocational training of at least two years, state-recognised in India.
German A1 or English B2, with a certificate.
€1,091 a month for your stay (blocked account or declaration of commitment).

The points (at least 6 needed)

Partial recognition of your qualification in Germany	4
German B2 (or B1: 2, A2: 1)	3
English C1	1
5 of the last 7 years in your profession (or 2 of the last 5: 2)	3
A shortage occupation (IT, engineering, health, teaching…)	1
Aged 35 or under (36 to 40: 1)	2
Six months in Germany in the last five years	1
A partner who also qualifies	1

Only your highest German level, one experience row and one age row count. Each point needs proof: certificates and employer letters.

Skilled worker: no points needed

If anabin rates your university H+ and your degree “entspricht” or “gleichwertig”, or a ZAB Statement of Comparability says so, you qualify as a skilled worker without points and without a language test.

How to apply

Collect your degree, marksheets, recognition proof, language certificate, experience letters and CV.
Fund the blocked account and buy health insurance valid from your arrival.
Apply online on the Consular Services Portal and bring the originals to your appointment at the German mission.

Residence Act §20a · points table (§20b annex) · German missions in India · Consular Services Portal · anabin · ZAB

Questions people ask

Who can get the Opportunity Card?: Someone whose degree or vocational qualification is recognised in Germany (a skilled worker) qualifies without points. Otherwise you need a university degree or at least two years of state-recognised vocational training, German A1 or English B2, and at least 6 points.
How much money do I need for the Chancenkarte?: €1,091 a month for the time you plan to stay, according to the German missions in India: about ₹1,18,919 a month, or ₹14,27,028 for a full year. A blocked account or a formal declaration of commitment is accepted.
Can I work on the Opportunity Card?: Yes: up to 20 hours a week on average, and trial jobs of up to 2 weeks at a time while you look for qualified work.
How long is the Opportunity Card valid?: Up to 12 months. With a contract or binding offer for qualified work and the Federal Employment Agency’s approval it can be extended by up to 2 years; with a fitting job you can also switch to an EU Blue Card or a skilled-worker permit.

Your own numbers and dates

Ambiful Abroad works this out for your degree, city and intake, then dates every step back from your deadline. Free on iPhone and Android.

General information, not legal or visa advice. The German mission and the authorities decide.