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The Chancenkarte (§20a AufenthG) is a new type of residence permit introduced in June 2024 that allows you to come to Germany to search for a job — without a prior job offer. It is based on a points system: a minimum of 6 points from qualifications, experience, language skills, and age is required.
The Chancenkarte (literally: "opportunity card") is a residence permit for job searching in Germany. It was introduced as part of the Skilled Workers Immigration Act (Fachkräfteeinwanderungsgesetz) reform in June 2024.
Unlike all other work permits, the Chancenkarte does not require a job offer. Instead, it uses a points system that evaluates your qualifications, experience, language skills, and age.
The goal is to attract qualified workers from non-EU countries who want to explore the German labor market before committing to a specific position.
Alternative path: without points
The points system under §20a/§20b AufenthG is not a 100-point scale — the realistic maximum attainable is roughly 14 points, because categories with the same criterion (e.g., different German levels or two age brackets) are mutually exclusive. You need at least 6 points from the following categories to qualify.
Recognized university degree or vocational training
Depends on the degree of recognition: partially recognized = 1, fully recognized = 3 points. The degree must be verified through the anabin database or ZAB.
Work experience in your field (in the last 7 years)
2+ years in your field = 2 points, 5+ years = 3 points. Experience must be related to the recognized qualification.
German language certificate (Goethe, telc, ÖSD)
B1 = 1 point, B2 or higher = 2 points. A2 is not scored for the Chancenkarte.
English language certificate (IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge)
B2 or higher level of English = 1 point.
Younger applicants receive more points
Under 35 years = 2 points. Between 35 and 40 = 1 point. Over 40 = 0 points.
Previous stay of at least 6 months
The stay must have been legal and documented (studies, work, language course).
Degree in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics
Applies to degrees in MINT/STEM fields (Mathematics, Computer Science, Natural Sciences, Technology).
Married partner who also holds a Chancenkarte
If your spouse already has an approved Chancenkarte, you receive an additional point.
In addition to the points, you must also meet the following general requirements:
You must prove that you can support yourself during your stay — approximately 12,324 EUR in a blocked account (Sperrkonto) or proof of regular income.
Health insurance for the entire period of stay is mandatory. This can be private travel health insurance or statutory health insurance.
That is exactly the point of the Chancenkarte — you do not need a job offer. You come to Germany to search for a job.
Your degree or vocational training must be at least partially recognized in Germany (check via anabin or ZAB).
Validity period
The Chancenkarte gives you certain rights, but also limitations while job searching:
You may do trial work with an employer for up to 2 weeks per employer, so both sides can assess whether the job is a good fit.
You may work up to 20 hours per week (side job / Nebentätigkeit) to finance your stay while searching for a permanent position.
Once you find a job, you can switch to a Blue Card EU, Fachkraft permit, or another work permit without returning to Serbia.
With the Chancenkarte, you cannot bring your family. Family reunification is only possible after you switch to a work permit (Blue Card, Fachkraft, etc.).
How does the Chancenkarte differ from other residence permits?
| Permit | Job offer | Language | Duration | Family |
|---|---|---|---|---|
ChancenkarteNew since June 2024 | Not needed | Points system | 1 year | No |
| Blue Card EU | Required | No requirement | 4 years | Yes (no A1) |
| Fachkraft | Required | B1 German | 4 years | Yes (A1) |
| Westbalkanregelung | Required | No requirement | Tied to contract | Yes (A1) |
Last updated: March 2026. All information is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.