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Visa Tips

Preparing your Chancenkarte application checklist

Apr 2026 · 7 min read

Germany's Chancenkarte, introduced in June 2024, allows skilled workers from non-EU countries to come to Germany and search for employment. It uses a points system based on qualifications, experience, language skills, and age.

What is the Chancenkarte?

It is a residence permit valid for 12 months, during which you can work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) while looking for a full-time position that matches your qualifications.

Points system overview

You need at least 6 points to qualify:

  • Qualifications: 1–3 points (depending on how your qualification is recognised)
  • Work experience: 1–3 points (2+ years in the last 5 years)
  • Language: 1–3 points (German B1 = 1 point, B2 = 3 points; English C1 = 1 point)
  • Age: 1 point (under 35)
  • Connection to Germany: 1 point (previous stay, family, job offer)

Your application checklist

  1. Valid passport — at least 6 months validity remaining
  2. Proof of qualification — university degree or vocational certificate, ideally with anabin recognition
  3. CV (Lebenslauf) — German-format, chronological, with no gaps
  4. Proof of language skills — Goethe certificate, TestDaF, or TELC for German; IELTS/TOEFL for English
  5. Proof of work experience — employment letters, contracts, or reference letters
  6. Proof of financial means — blocked account (€11,208 for 12 months) or scholarship letter
  7. Health insurance — travel insurance for the initial period, or proof of German health insurance
  8. Proof of accommodation — hotel booking, rental agreement, or host letter
  9. Points self-assessment — use the official Make it in Germany calculator

Where to apply

Book an appointment at the German Embassy in Abuja or the Consulate General in Lagos. Processing times vary — apply at least 3 months before your planned travel date.

After arriving in Germany

Register your address (Anmeldung), open a bank account, and start networking. The Chancenkarte gives you 12 months — use them wisely. Attend job fairs, reach out to companies directly, and consider volunteering or internships in your field.