Are you dreaming of working in Europe’s economic powerhouse but don’t have a job offer yet? In 2026, the Germany Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) is your golden ticket. Under the modernized Skilled Immigration Act (FEG), Germany has simplified the entry process for global talent.
Whether you are an IT specialist from India, an engineer from Brazil, or a healthcare professional from the Philippines, this guide will show you exactly how to navigate the 2026 points-based system and calculate your chances of success.
2026 Core Requirements & Eligibility
Before you reach for the calculator, you must meet the non-negotiable “Option 2” requirements. These act as the foundation of your application and establish your E-A-T (Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness) in the eyes of the German Federal Foreign Office.
- Basic Language Need You need to know some language. You must have German at A1 level (very basic). Or English at B2 level (good level). You need a certificate to prove it.
- Your Qualification You must have a degree from university. Or vocational training that lasts at least two years. This must be official in your home country.
- Minimum Points If your qualification is not fully accepted in Germany, you need the points system. You must get at least 6 points.
- Money Proof: Blocked Account Update for 2026 You must show you have enough money to live in Germany. You can use a blocked account. Or a part-time job contract. For 2026, you need to prove about €1,091 per month (net). This is around €13,092 for one year. If you have a part-time job that pays this much, you may not need the full blocked account.
These are the main rules. Everyone must follow them. Now, let us see how to get points.
How to Calculate Your Chancenkarte Points for 2026
The points system is clear. You add points from different things. You need 6 or more points. Here is how it works.
- Qualification Recognition If your degree or training is fully accepted in Germany, you can get the card directly. No points needed. If not, you can get points like this:
- Partial or Full Recognition If your qualification is partly or fully equal (checked by ZAB or Anabin), you get points. Full recognition gives direct access. Partial helps with points.
- Professional Experience Your work experience gives points.
- How Many Points for Experience 5 years or more experience in the last 7 years: 3 points. 2 years or more experience in the last 5 years: 2 points.
You need proof like job letters.
- Language Skills Language is important.
- German Language Points German B2 or higher: 3 points. German B1: 2 points. German A2: 1 point.
- English Bonus English C1 (very good): 1 point extra.
- Age Points Young people get more points.
- Age Bonus Under 35 years: 2 points. 35 to 40 years: 1 point. Over 40: 0 points.
- Other Bonus Points There are more ways to get points.
- Shortage Jobs If your job is in a shortage field (like IT, healthcare, STEM, engineering): 1 point.
- Previous Stay in Germany If you lived legally in Germany for 6 months or more in the last 5 years (not as tourist): 1 point.
- Spouse Bonus If you come with your spouse, and they also qualify for the card: 1 point. Add all your points. If you have 6 or more, you can apply.
Many people get points from experience, language, and age. For example, if you are 30 years old (2 points), have 3 years work (2 points), German A2 (1 point), and English C1 (1 point), you have 6 points already.
Work Rights: 20-Hour Part-Time Limit & Trial Jobs
The Opportunity Card is good because you can work a little.
- Part-Time Work You can work up to 20 hours per week. This can be any job, like in a shop or delivery. It helps you pay for life in Germany.
- Trial Jobs You can do trial work for two weeks with any employer. You can do as many as you want. This helps you meet companies and show your skills.
The card is for one year first. You can extend it if needed.
Summary Table: 2026 Point System At-A-Glance
Here is a simple table to see the points fast.
| Category | Requirement | Points |
|---|---|---|
| Qualification | Partial or relevant recognition | Up to 4 |
| Work Experience | 5 years in last 7 years | 3 |
| Work Experience | 2 years | 2 |
| Language | German B2 or higher | 3 |
| Language | German B1 | 2 |
| Language | German A2 | 1 |
| Age | Under 35 years | 2 |
| Age | 35-40 years | 1 |
| Shortage Occupation | IT, healthcare, STEM, etc. | 1 |
| English | C1 level | 1 |
| Previous Stay | 6 months legal in last 5 years | 1 |
| Spouse | Spouse also qualifies | 1 |
You need at least 6 points in total. This table helps you check quickly. Count your points now.
Transitioning to the EU Blue Card in 2026
When you find a good job, you can change your card. You can get a skilled worker visa or EU Blue Card. The EU Blue Card is popular for high-skilled jobs.
Salary Needs for 2026
- Normal jobs: At least €50,700 gross per year.
- Shortage jobs (like STEM, IT, health): €45,934.20 gross per year.
If your job pays this much, you can switch easily. The Blue Card lets you stay longer and bring family. Many people start with Opportunity Card and then get Blue Card. Ready to apply?
Go to the official German website or embassy. Use the Consular Services Portal. It is online now. Make sure your money proof is ready. Check everything twice.
Next Step: Do you want help with recognition of your degree? Or more guides?
Disclaimer: This article is for information only. It is to help you learn. Always check official sources like “Make it in Germany” website or German embassy. Rules can change. Get advice for your case.