Germany Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) for Pakistanis 2026

2 min read · Updated 1 October 2026

One year in Germany to look for a job, without a job offer. That's the Opportunity Card. But you need 6 points, and about 13,000 euros. Here's who actually qualifies.

Germany launched the Opportunity Card, or Chancenkarte, in June 2024. It's a visa to come and search for work. Think of it as a one year ticket to job interviews in person.

There are two ways in.

The direct way. If your degree or professional qualification is already fully recognised in Germany, you qualify straight away. No points needed.

Most people from Pakistan take the second way: the points system. First, you need a university degree or at least two years of vocational training, recognised by the state in Pakistan. And you need basic German at A1 level, or English at B2. Then you need at least 6 points.

So how do you get 6 points?

Partial recognition of your qualification in Germany: 4 points. That's the biggest one.

Experience counts too. Five years of experience in your field: 3 points. Two years: 2 points.

Language is where many people win points. German at B2: 3 points. B1: 2 points. A2: 1 point. And English at C1 adds 1 more.

Age helps. Under 35: 2 points. 35 to 40: 1 point.

And a few extras. A job in a shortage occupation, like IT, engineering or nursing: 1 point. Six months spent in Germany before: 1 point. And if your spouse qualifies too, you get 1 point.

Let's try an example. A 29 year old software developer from Lahore, with a degree, three years of experience, and English at C1. Age: 2 points. Experience: 2. English C1: 1. Shortage occupation: 1. That's 6. She qualifies.

Now the money. You must show you can support yourself. In 2026, that's 1,091 euros a month, so about 13,000 euros for the year. Most people use a blocked account.

Once you're in Germany, you can work part time, up to 20 hours a week, and do trial work with an employer for up to two weeks.

And the goal is to find a real job. When you find a qualified job, you switch to a work permit or an EU Blue Card, without leaving the country.

The catch? A year can go by fast. You'll need a CV in the German style, and real German helps a lot in interviews. And appointments at German missions in Pakistan can take time, so plan early.

In short: The Opportunity Card isn't a job. It's a chance. With 6 points, the money, and a plan, it can be the start of a career in Germany.