Chancenkarte vs Job Seeker: which German visa is right for you?
Two ways to enter Germany to look for work: the points-based Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte), which also lets you do part-time work while searching, and the classic Job Seeker visa.
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) (Chancenkarte) | Job Seeker Visa for Qualified Professionals (Job Seeker) |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Points-based | Temporary |
| Who it's for | Skilled jobseekers who score enough points to look for qualified work in Germany. | Degree-holders who want to enter Germany to look for skilled employment. |
| Government cost | ~€75 | ~€75 |
| Processing time | ~4-8 weeks | ~4-8 weeks |
| Length of stay | Up to 1 year (extendable up to 2) | Up to 6 months |
| Where to apply | At a German consulate abroad | At a German consulate abroad |
| Work rights | Part-time work (20 hrs/week) and trial jobs while searching | No work during the search (trial work limited) |
| Points-tested | Yes | No |
| Pathway to PR | Switch to a skilled-worker permit or Blue Card once you find qualifying work. | Convert to a skilled-worker permit or Blue Card after finding a job. |
Which is right for you?
Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) (Chancenkarte)
Skilled jobseekers who score enough points to look for qualified work in Germany.
Full Chancenkarte guide →Job Seeker Visa for Qualified Professionals (Job Seeker)
Degree-holders who want to enter Germany to look for skilled employment.
Full Job Seeker guide →Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, Chancenkarte or Job Seeker?
On indicative 2025-26 government costs, Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) (Chancenkarte) is the lowest at ~€75. Government fees change periodically - confirm before applying.
Which is processed faster, Chancenkarte or Job Seeker?
Indicatively Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) (Chancenkarte) is the quickest at ~4-8 weeks. Actual timeframes depend on caseload and how complete your application is.
What's the main difference between Chancenkarte and Job Seeker?
Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) (Chancenkarte) is for skilled jobseekers who score enough points to look for qualified work in Germany. Job Seeker Visa for Qualified Professionals (Job Seeker) is for degree-holders who want to enter Germany to look for skilled employment.