On 1 March 2024, § 20a of the Aufenthaltsgesetz (AufenthG) entered into force as part of Phase 2 of the Fachkräfteeinwanderungsgesetz reform, creating the Chancenkarte — Germany's first points-based immigration instrument.
The core concept
Unlike all prior German work permit categories, the Chancenkarte does not require a concrete employment offer before issuance. Applicants who meet the points threshold may enter Germany to search for work. This removes the circular dependency — the need to find an employer willing to sponsor a permit before the applicant can legally be present — that previously made German job searching from abroad extremely difficult.
The four scoring criteria
Points are awarded across four pillars:
- Qualifications: A recognised German university degree scores highest. Comparable foreign degrees (assessed via ANABIN or the IQ network) and state-recognised vocational qualifications also score, with degree-level qualifications weighted above vocational ones.
- Professional experience: Years of documented work in the relevant occupation. Longer and more recent experience scores more points.
- German language proficiency: Certified level from A1 to C1. Higher proficiency scores more points; no language requirement to apply, but any certified level contributes.
- Connection to Germany: Prior study, training, or work experience in Germany scores additional points.
What the Chancenkarte permits
The card is a 12-month residence permit (extended to 24 months by a March 2026 amendment). During validity, holders may: - Enter Germany and conduct a structured job search - Work up to 20 hours per week in any occupation during the search phase — without prior qualification recognition or a Vorrangprüfung - Attend interviews, complete trial workdays (Probearbeit), and engage with employers directly
Transition to a work permit
The Chancenkarte is not itself an employment permit. Once an applicant secures a qualifying employment offer, they apply for the appropriate work permit (Fachkräftevisum under § 18a or § 18b AufenthG, or an EU Blue Card under § 18g) from within Germany, without needing to leave. This in-country transition is a material practical advantage.
What the Chancenkarte does not cover
Full-time self-employment and the commencement of a new independent business are not permitted under the card. Applicants who do not secure employment within the validity period must leave Germany at expiry.