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  1. Home/
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  3. Germany launches the Chancenkarte (Opportunity Card)

1 June 2024·Federal Republic of Germany·Material change·In force

Germany launches the Chancenkarte (Opportunity Card)

By Sam Parks · Last reviewed: 22 June 2026

Germany launched a new points-based residence permit for job seekers under the Skilled Immigration Act reforms.

What changed

  • Policy claim 1

    The Chancenkarte is a 1-year job-search permit assessed against a points test (qualification, experience, language, age, Germany ties).

    Claim ID: de-2024-06-chancenkarte-launch#claim-1·Cite this claim

    Source: Make it in Germany — Opportunity Card (German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action)·source verified 22 June 2026·page reviewed 22 June 2026

  • Policy claim 2

    Holders may work up to 20 hours per week and undertake 2-week trial employment periods.

    Claim ID: de-2024-06-chancenkarte-launch#claim-2·Cite this claim

    Source: Make it in Germany — Opportunity Card (German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action)·source verified 22 June 2026·page reviewed 22 June 2026

  • Policy claim 3

    Conversion to an EU Blue Card or §18a/18b skilled-worker residence permit is permitted once a qualifying job offer is secured.

    Claim ID: de-2024-06-chancenkarte-launch#claim-3·Cite this claim

    Source: Make it in Germany — Opportunity Card (German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action)·source verified 22 June 2026·page reviewed 22 June 2026

Routes affected

  • Chancenkarte (Germany Opportunity Card)
  • EU Blue Card (Germany)
  • Skilled Worker residence permit (§18a/§18b AufenthG)

Primary source

Primary source

Make it in Germany — Opportunity Card ↗ · German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action

Link last verified: 22 June 2026

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This is not legal advice

We publish neutral, sourced information about immigration routes. Rules and thresholds change often — always verify details on the official government source linked on this page and consult a regulated immigration advisor before applying.