Germany

Germany job-search opportunity card

Policy overviewReviewed 2026-09-03

For non-EU/EFTA nationals seeking qualified work in Germany, through either a recognized-qualification route or a six-point route.

Core requirements

Qualification routeConditional

Route 1 requires a German or fully recognized foreign qualification; route 2 requires a degree recognized in its country of award or generally at least two years of vocational training.

LanguageConditional

The recognized-qualification route has no statutory language minimum; the points route requires at least German A1 or English B2.

Points testConditional

Only the points route requires at least six points in addition to its basic qualification and language conditions.

Financial supportRequired

Job-search funds are required; 2026 guidance lists a blocked account of at least €1,091 net monthly or a declaration of commitment.

Job offerNot required

No job offer is required initially; the job-search opportunity card is first issued for up to one year.

Official sources

General educational information only, not personalized immigration or legal advice. Requirements can change; confirm them with the responsible government authority before acting. Next scheduled review: 2026-12-03.