Opportunity Card Germany: Top 60 Questions Answered Before You Apply

To be eligible for the Opportunity Card, you need a minimum of 6 points if you don’t have a recognized degree or vocational training. You don’t need to meet the points requirement if you have a recognised qualification.

You’re not automatically eligible if you don’t have a formal degree or vocational training. However, you can still qualify if your work experience, language skills, age, and other factors add up to at least 6 points under the Opportunity Card system.

Here’s the catch: Germany still expects some certified training or proof of skills—even if it’s not a university degree. Pure work experience without recognized credentials is usually not enough.

So, if you’ve worked in a skilled trade or a shortage occupation for several years, it’s worth checking if your experience can be formally recognized or backed by certificates. That can make all the difference.

Germany doesn’t just look at your diploma—they want to know if your degree is officially equivalent to a German qualification. The first place to check is the Anabin database, which lists recognized universities and degree types. If your university has an H+ status, that’s a good sign—it’s accepted.

But it’s not just about the university. The field of study and type of degree also matter. If there’s any uncertainty—say, your degree isn’t listed or the info is unclear—you’ll need to get a Statement of Comparability from ZAB (Germany’s Central Office for Foreign Education).

That certificate basically says, “Yes, this degree meets German standards.” Immigration officers rely on it when assessing your Opportunity Card application. So if you’re serious about applying, start checking Anabin or applying for ZAB validation early. Processing can take weeks, and without it, your points or eligibility could fall short; without

Yes, Goethe Institute certificates are fully recognized. If your certificate matches CEFR levels (A1, A2, B1, etc.), it will count toward your points. Just make sure it’s valid and recent—some offices prefer certificates no older than two years.

No, tourist or Schengen visits don’t count toward Opportunity Card points. Only previous stays for study, work, or training in Germany are valid. Short visits like vacations or business trips won’t earn you any points.

Online or distance learning only counts if the degree is from a recognized university, leading to an officially accredited qualification. It must be listed in Anabin or supported by a ZAB certificate. If it’s not formally recognized in Germany, it won’t help your application.

Yes, you can still apply, but you’ll need a Statement of Comparability from ZAB. This document proves that your degree is equivalent to a German qualification. Without it, your degree won’t be accepted for the Opportunity Card, even if it’s genuine. Start the process early—it can take several weeks.

No, a one-year diploma doesn’t meet the requirement. Germany explicitly requires at least two years of formal vocational training. If your program was shorter, it won’t count unless you have additional training or a recognized qualification to support your application.

No, you can’t apply while on a tourist visa in Germany. You must apply from your home country or a country where you have legal residence. Switching from a tourist visa to the Opportunity Card isn’t allowed inside Germany.

Processing times vary by country and embassy, but they usually take 6 to 12 weeks. Sometimes, it can take longer, especially if your documents need extra verification or if ZAB evaluation is pending. Always apply early and expect delays.

Yes, most documents, especially your degree, transcripts, and certificates, must be translated into German by a certified translator. Some embassies may also accept English documents, but providing German versions is safer to avoid delays or rejection. Always check your local embassy’s requirements.

You can apply from your home country or any country where you have legal residence. You can’t apply from a country where you’re staying temporarily, like on a tourist visa.

You must visit the German consulate or embassy to submit biometrics and original documents. Some parts of the process—like filling out forms or booking appointments—can be done online, but personal appearance is required to complete the application.

If you miss your appointment, you’ll need to reschedule it, which could delay your application by weeks. Some embassies have long wait times, so always cancel or rebook in advance if you can’t make it. No-shows may be penalized or blocked temporarily from booking again.

No, freelancing is not allowed on the Opportunity Card. You can only work part-time for up to 20 hours per week as an employee and take on short trial jobs. Freelance work requires a different type of visa.

No, you can’t work remotely for a non-German company. The Opportunity Card only allows local part-time employment and trial jobs in Germany. Remote work for a foreign employer is considered freelancing or self-employment, which isn’t permitted under this visa.

Yes, internships can help—especially if they lead to a job offer. While internships don’t directly convert your visa, they allow you to gain experience, network, and prove your skills. If a company offers you a full-time position afterward, you can switch to a work visa or Blue Card.

No, you don’t have to wait. When you have a valid job offer that meets visa requirements, you can apply to switch from the Opportunity Card to a work visa or Blue Card immediately—no need to wait out the 12 months.

You can try different trial jobs, but only one at a time, and each must be limited to two weeks per employer. Also, you still can’t exceed the 20-hour work limit per week across all jobs combined.

No, you can’t work full-time—even during probation—while on the Opportunity Card. You can only work up to 20 hours weekly until you switch to a full-time work visa.

No, the Opportunity Card doesn’t allow immediate family reunification. Your spouse and kids can’t join you right away. They can only apply to join you after you secure full-time employment in Germany and switch to a suitable residence permit.

If your spouse meets the requirements independently, they can apply for their Opportunity Card. You both would apply separately, and each must meet the eligibility criteria independently—points, qualifications, and financial proof.

Yes, you can get married in Germany while on the Opportunity Card. But the process involves strict paperwork and local registration and doesn’t automatically change your visa status. After marriage, your spouse must apply for their visa unless you’ve switched to a work permit that allows family reunification.

You become eligible for family reunification once you find a full-time job and switch to a residence permit or Blue Card. Your spouse and children can then apply for a family reunion visa to join you in Germany.

You can’t extend the Opportunity Card if you don’t find a job within 12 months. You’ll need to leave Germany unless you qualify for another type of visa. There’s no automatic renewal, so planning and staying within the time limit is essential.

No, the Opportunity Card cannot be extended, even if you’re close to getting a job. Your only option is to switch to a work visa once you have a valid job offer. Otherwise, you must leave Germany when your card expires.

Yes, absolutely. Once you have a valid job offer that meets the salary and qualification requirements, you can switch to a Blue Card or another work-related residence permit. The main goal of the Opportunity Card is to help you land a job and transition to long-term residency.

No, the Opportunity Card only allows you to live and work in Germany. If you get a job in another EU country, you must apply for a separate visa or work permit there. The card doesn’t give you EU-wide work rights.

Most embassies prefer a blocked account, but some may accept a regular bank balance if you can prove it’s reliable, accessible, and covers your stay. Always check with your local German embassy for specific requirements.

You must show you can cover at least €1,027 monthly, or about €12,324 for one year. This amount may vary slightly depending on exchange rates and embassy guidelines.

Yes, the Opportunity Card allows you to work up to 20 hours per week in part-time jobs. This can help cover basic expenses, but it’s not guaranteed you’ll find work quickly—so plan your budget accordingly.

Living costs vary by city. You’ll need around €900–€1,200 per month. Rent, food, transport, and health insurance are your biggest expenses. Cities like Berlin or Leipzig are cheaper than Munich or Frankfurt.

The job must be relevant to your qualifications, be full-time, and meet the criteria for either a Blue Card or a standard work visa. It should be in a skilled field—not a mini-job or casual role.

Yes, ideally. The job should match your educational background or professional training. Immigration officers assess if your role fits your skills and qualifications before approving a long-term permit.

In 2025, the minimum gross salary is €45,300 per year, or €3,775 per month. The threshold for shortage occupations (IT, engineering, nursing) is lower—around €41,041 annually. These figures change yearly, so always double-check.

No, there’s no waiting period. You can switch immediately once you have a valid job offer that meets the visa requirements. The 12 months are just the maximum time to search—not a required wait.

No, it’s not mandatory—but it helps. You can apply without German, but knowing the language earns you points and improves your job chances significantly.

No, only the language level you prove at the time of application counts. If you pass a higher level later, it won’t add points unless you reapply. Still, improving your German will help with job offers.

Yes, many Volkshochschulen (public adult education centers) offer affordable or free courses. Some local integration programs may also provide free language classes, especially in larger cities.

Top portals include LinkedIn, Indeed, StepStone, Monster, and EnglishJobs.de. You can also try Startup Jobs Europe, Berlin Startup Jobs, or Xing for local opportunities.

Yes, absolutely. You’re allowed—and encouraged—to attend career fairs, job expos, and networking events. These are great for meeting employers, recruiters, and industry insiders in person.

It’s still new, so not all employers know it well. Be ready to briefly explain it—that it’s a legal residence permit allowing you to work part-time and apply for full-time jobs.

Yes, but keep it simple. Say you hold a valid residence permit that allows you to work in Germany. If asked, explain that it’s the Opportunity Card and that you’re ready to switch to a full work visa.

Some cities offer integration or employment services, but these vary. Make it in Germany provides job search tools and guidance. After registering your address, you can also ask your local Jobcenter.

Yes, but it’s tricky. Some landlords may rent remotely, but most want to meet you first. Temporary housing or short-term rentals are a good starting point.

Yes, you need a valid rental contract and a confirmation letter from your landlord (Wohnungsgeberbestätigung) to register your address (Anmeldung).

Sometimes, yes—but only for short-term stays. For Anmeldung and visa extension, you’ll eventually need long-term accommodation with proper paperwork.

You usually need your passport, proof of address (Anmeldung), visa/residence permit, and sometimes a tax ID. Some online banks require fewer documents.

You can buy private health insurance for job seekers. Providers like Feather, Ottonova, or Mawista offer plans tailored for visa applicants without employment.

Common reasons include unrecognized degrees, missing documents, insufficient proof of funds, low points, or poorly translated documents. Always follow embassy instructions closely.

Yes, you can reapply. Just make sure you’ve corrected the issue that caused the rejection—whether it’s documents, points, or degree recognition.

No, you can’t. You must apply from outside Germany, usually from your home country or a place where you have legal residence.

Yes, in most cases, you can appeal the decision. The process and timeline depend on the embassy. You’ll need to submit a written objection and provide any missing or corrected documents.

You must leave before or on the last day your card is valid. There’s no grace period, and overstaying can affect future visa applications.

It’s open to all non-EU nationals as long as you meet the eligibility criteria. Your nationality doesn’t affect your chances—your qualifications do.

Yes, even if you’re visa-exempt (like the U.S., Canada, and Australia), you still need to apply for the Opportunity Card within 90 days of arrival in Germany.

It depends. You may apply if you have cleared any bans or penalties, but past overstays can negatively affect your application. It’s best to consult the embassy first.

Yes, indirectly. Once you find a full-time job and switch to a work permit or Blue Card, your time in Germany starts counting toward permanent residency.

The Opportunity Card is a Germany-only program. It doesn’t apply in other EU countries or grant EU-wide work rights.