Germany's Opportunity Card: how many points your German is worth
Redaktion · 12 October 2026 · 3 min read
In short
For the Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) via the points system you need at least 6 points, plus at least A1 German or B2 English and a qualification recognised in your home country. German earns points: A2 one, B1 two, B2 three. English C1 earns one point. If your qualification is already fully recognised in Germany, you need no points.
What is the Opportunity Card?
The Opportunity Card lets you live in Germany for up to one year to look for work or to prepare the recognition of your qualification (§ 20a AufenthG). During that time you may work on average up to 20 hours a week and do trial work of up to two weeks each. If you find a suitable job, a follow-up card for up to two years is possible.
Who needs points?
If your qualification is fully recognised in Germany, you count as a skilled worker and need no points. Everyone else takes the points route. For that you need:
- a vocational qualification with at least two years of training or a university degree, each state-recognised in your home country,
- at least A1 German or B2 English,
- at least 6 points,
- secured means of subsistence for the time of your search.
The points table
| Criterion | Points |
|---|---|
| Partial recognition of your qualification in Germany | 4 |
| German B2 | 3 |
| German B1 | 2 |
| German A2 | 1 |
| English C1 | 1 |
| At least 5 years of work experience in the last 7 years | 3 |
| At least 2 years of work experience in the last 5 years | 2 |
| Qualification in a shortage occupation | 1 |
| Under 35 | 2 |
| 35 to under 40 | 1 |
| At least 6 months of lawful stay in Germany in the last 5 years | 1 |
| Spouse or partner applies too and meets the requirements | 1 |
What does a German certificate add?
A1 is only the entry ticket and earns no points. From A2 on, German counts: with B1 you already have 2 points, with B2 even 3. An example: you are 32, have two years of work experience and German at B1. That is 2 + 2 + 2 = 6 points, enough for the card. With only A1 it would be 4 points, too few.
So a B1 or B2 certificate pays twice: for the points and for job hunting in German. You can practise under real conditions with us, for example Goethe-Zertifikat B1 or telc Deutsch B2.
Frequently asked questions
How many points do I need for the Opportunity Card?
At least 6 points if your qualification is not fully recognised in Germany. With full recognition you need no points.
How many points is German B1 worth for the Opportunity Card?
2 points. A2 is worth 1 point, B2 is worth 3. A1 is required but earns no points.
Is English enough for the Opportunity Card?
Yes, as the basic requirement English at B2 can replace A1 German. English C1 adds 1 point.
Can I work with the Opportunity Card?
Yes, on average up to 20 hours a week, plus trial work of up to two weeks each (§ 20a AufenthG).
Sources
- Residence Act (AufenthG), § 20a Opportunity Card, checked 9 October 2026
- Residence Act (AufenthG), § 20b points, checked 9 October 2026
- Residence Act (AufenthG), annex (to § 20b): points table, checked 9 October 2026
