Germany continues to face a shortage of skilled workers, with an estimated 600,000 to 1.7 million job vacancies across sectors such as IT, AI, engineering, healthcare, nursing, renewable energy, and skilled trades.
If you are a skilled professional living in Saudi Arabia, the Germany Opportunity Card can help you enter Germany and search for a job for up to one year.
In this guide, our visa experts explain everything you need to know about the Germany Opportunity Card from Saudi Arabia, including the eligibility requirements, required documents, application process, costs, and benefits.
So, let’s take a detailed look at the Germany Opportunity Card.
What is the Germany Opportunity Card?
The Germany Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) allows skilled professionals to enter Germany and stay for up to one year while searching for a job.
To qualify, you must meet the eligibility requirements through one of two pathways.
You can either qualify as a fully recognized skilled worker or apply through the points-based system, where you need to score at least 6 points based on factors such as your qualifications, work experience, language skills, age, and connection to Germany.
Now, let’s look at these two eligibility pathways in detail.
Two Ways to qualify for the Germany Opportunity Card from Saudi Arabia
You can qualify for the Germany Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) from Saudi Arabia in two ways.
If your qualification is fully recognized in Germany, you do not need to meet any language requirement to apply for the Germany Opportunity Card.
You only need to show German (A1) or English (B2) language skills if you are applying through the Points-Based System.
-
Fully Recognized Skilled Worker
If Germany fully recognizes your university degree or vocational qualification, you can apply for the Germany Opportunity Card without using the points-based system.
To prove your qualification, you need:
For University Degrees
To prove that your degree is fully recognized, your university must have an H+ status in the Anabin database (The Anabin database is the official German database that helps determine whether a foreign university and degree are recognized in Germany. It is managed by the Central Office for Foreign Education (ZAB)) and your specific degree must be listed as equivalent (entspricht/gleichwertig).
You do not need a ZAB Statement if:
- Your university has H+ status in Anabin.
- Your degree is listed as equivalent.
- You can submit printouts of both Anabin search results as proof.
You need a ZAB Statement if:
- Your university has H+/- status.
- Your university or your degree is not listed in Anabin.
- Your degree has a conditional listing.
In these cases, you must apply for a Statement of Comparability from the ZAB.
For Vocational Qualifications
The Anabin database does not apply to vocational qualifications.
You must get an official Recognition Notice (Anerkennungsbescheid) from the German authority responsible for your profession. This notice confirms whether your qualification has full or partial recognition.
2. Points-Based System
If your qualification is not fully recognized, you can still qualify through the points-based system in the following ways:
| Category | Eligibility Criteria | Points |
| Qualification | Your university degree or vocational qualification is partially recognized in Germany, or you need additional training/exams for a regulated profession. | 4 |
| Shortage Occupation | Your qualification is in a profession that Germany currently needs. | 1 |
| Work Experience | You have at least 2 years of work experience in the last 5 years. | 2 |
| Work Experience | You have at least 5 years of work experience in the last 7 years. | 3 |
| German Language Skills | You have German language skills at A2 level. | 1 |
| German Language Skills | You have German language skills at B1 level. | 2 |
| German Language Skills | You have German language skills at B2 level or higher. | 3 |
| English Language Skills | You have English language skills at C1 level or you are a native English speaker. | 1 |
| Age | You are 35 years old or younger. | 2 |
| Age | You are between 35 and 40 years old. | 1 |
| Previous Stay in Germany | You have legally lived in Germany for at least 6 months within the last 5 years (tourist visits do not count). | 1 |
| Partner Eligibility | Your spouse or partner also qualifies for the Germany Opportunity Card and you apply together. | 1 |
Benefits Of Germany opportunity Card
- No job offer needed: You do not need a job offer before moving to Germany. You can stay in Germany for up to one year to look for a suitable job.
- Work part-time: While searching for a full-time job, you can work up to 20 hours per week to help cover your living expenses.
- Attend job trials: You can take part in job trials or work trials for up to two weeks with potential employers before accepting a job.
- Move to a work permit: Once you get a qualified job, you can apply for a German work or residence permit. This can also lead to permanent residency in the future.
- Bring your family: If you meet the requirements, your spouse and children can join you in Germany and apply for residence permits.
- Travel within the Schengen Area: You can visit other Schengen countries without applying for separate visas, as long as you follow the Schengen travel rules.
How to apply for a Germany Opportunity Card from Saudi Arabia
Follow these steps to apply for a Germany Opportunity Card from Saudi Arabia:
- Check your eligibility. Make sure you qualify either as a fully recognized skilled worker or through the points-based system.
- Collect the required documents. Prepare your passport, educational certificates, language test results, proof of work experience, proof of financial support, health insurance, and other supporting documents.
- Complete the online visa application. Fill out the Germany Opportunity Card visa application through the German Consular Services Portal or the official visa application system.
- Book your visa appointment. Schedule an appointment with the German Embassy or Consulate in Saudi Arabia if required.
- Submit your application. Attend your appointment, submit your documents, provide your biometric data, and pay the visa fee.
- Wait for a decision. The visa process usually takes about four weeks, although it may take longer depending on your application. Once your visa is approved, you can travel to Germany and start looking for a job.
Reminder: For an easy Germany visa application from Saudi Arabia, contact our visa consultants at The Visa Guy.
Documents Required for a Germany Opportunity Card from Saudi Arabia
When applying for a Germany Opportunity Card from Saudi Arabia, you will generally need the following documents:
- A valid passport with at least two blank pages.
- A completed Germany national visa application form.
- Two recent biometric passport-size photographs.
- A copy of your Saudi Iqama or valid Saudi visa.
- Your university degree or vocational qualification certificates.
- Proof that your qualification is recognized in Germany, such as a Statement of Comparability (ZAB), an Anabin printout, or a recognition notice, depending on your qualification.
- German (A1) or English (B2) language certificate, if required.
- Work experience documents, such as experience letters, employment certificates, or your CV.
- Proof of sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in Germany, such as a blocked account, bank statements, a declaration of commitment, or proof of part-time employment.
- Health insurance that is valid in Germany and the Schengen Area.
- A cover letter explaining your career goals, the type of job you are looking for, and how you plan to support yourself in Germany.
- Any additional documents that support your points under the points-based system, such as proof of previous legal residence in Germany or your spouse’s qualifications, if applicable.
Germany Opportunity Card vs. Germany Job Seeker Visa
The Germany Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) came into effect on June 1, 2024. It gives skilled professionals more flexibility than the traditional Germany Job Seeker Visa. With both visas, you can travel to Germany without a job offer.
However, the Germany Opportunity Card offers more benefits, including a longer stay, part-time work rights, and a more flexible eligibility process.
So, let’s look at the differences between the Germany Opportunity Card and the Germany Job Seeker Visa.
| Feature | Germany Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) | Germany Job Seeker Visa |
| Job Offer | Not required before travelling to Germany. | Not required before travelling to Germany. |
| Stay Duration | Stay in Germany for up to 12 months to look for a job. | Stay in Germany for up to 6 months to look for a job. |
| Work While Job Hunting | Yes. You can work up to 20 hours per week and take part in job trials. | No. You cannot work while searching for a job. |
| Eligibility | Qualify as a recognized skilled worker or through the points-based system (minimum 6 points). | Must meet the standard qualification requirements (fully recognized degree/qualification) without a points system. |
| Financial Support | To get a 12-month Germany Opportunity Card, you must show that you have at least €1,091 per month to cover your living expenses. This equals €13,092 for one year.
For applicants in Saudi Arabia, the German Embassy in Riyadh states that this amount is approximately SAR 4,760.63 per month, depending on the current exchange rate. |
You must show proof of funds and cannot earn income through part-time work. |
How to Start Your Career in Germany
Choosing between the Germany Opportunity Card and the Germany Job Seeker Visa can be confusing, especially if you are applying from Saudi Arabia. Each option has different eligibility requirements, documents, and application steps.
If you want a smooth and hassle-free application process, contact our visa experts at The Visa Guy Saudi. Our team will help you check your eligibility, prepare the required documents, complete your application correctly, and guide you through every step of the process. With the right support, you can apply with confidence and avoid unnecessary delays or mistakes on your journey to working in Germany.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the processing time for a Germany Opportunity Card from Saudi Arabia?
The Germany Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) from Saudi Arabia is usually processed in about 3 to 4 weeks. However, in some cases, it may take upto 12 months, depending on your application and document verification.
How much does the Germany Opportunity Card cost from Saudi Arabia?
The Germany Opportunity Card visa fee is €75. You may also need to pay for document translation, language tests, health insurance, and proof of financial support.
Is there an age limit for the Germany Opportunity Card?
There is no official age limit. However, younger applicants receive more points under the points-based system. Applicants aged 35 or below receive the highest age-related points.
What qualifications do I need to apply for the Germany Opportunity Card from Saudi Arabia?
You need a recognized university degree or vocational qualification. You must also meet the language requirement in German (A1) or English (B2). If your qualification is not fully recognized, you must score at least 6 points under the points-based system.
Where do I apply for a Germany Opportunity Card in Saudi Arabia?
You can apply through the German Consular Services Portal or submit your application through the German Embassy or Consulate in Saudi Arabia, depending on your location and the application process.
For a smooth and hassle-free application, contact The Visa Guy. Our visa experts will guide you through every step of the Germany Opportunity Card application process.
Can I extend the Germany Opportunity Card?
Yes, in some cases. If you meet the required conditions, you may be able to extend your stay or switch to a German work or residence permit after finding a qualified job.
Can I study in Germany with the Opportunity Card?
The Germany Opportunity Card is designed for job seekers, not for full-time study. However, you may be able to attend short courses or training related to your career while looking for a job.
How many points are required for the Germany Opportunity Card?
If you apply through the points-based system, you must score at least 6 points to qualify for the Germany Opportunity Card.
