How the Chancenkarte Points System Works

Germany’s Chancenkarte (Opportunity Card) is a points-based visa that lets skilled professionals from outside the EU come to Germany to search for work. It was introduced under the 2024 Skilled Immigration Act reform. To qualify, you need a minimum of 6 points from a defined set of criteria.

The point calculation follows a simple additive formula:

The maximum possible score is 9 points. Most applicants who qualify fall between 6 and 8 points. Scoring 9 is possible but rare.

What Each Criterion Means

Qualification (up to 3 points)

A recognised foreign university degree is worth 3 points. A vocational or technical qualification that is recognised under German or international standards scores 2 points. Partial or still-in-progress qualifications score 1 point. If you have no formal recognised qualification, you get 0 points here.

For Nigerians, the key word is “recognised.” Many Nigerian universities are listed in the anabin database, which is Germany’s official database for evaluating foreign academic qualifications. Check your university there first. If it is graded H+ or H, your degree will generally count.

Work Experience (up to 2 points)

Five or more years of professional experience in your qualified field scores 2 points. Two to four years scores 1 point. Less than two years or unrelated experience scores 0. Self-employment, freelancing, and formal employment all count as long as the work relates to your degree or training.

Language Skills (up to 3 points)

This is the criterion where most Nigerian applicants have the most room to grow. German at B2 or above scores 3 points. German at A1 to B1 scores 2 points. English at C1 or above also scores 2 points (this is a recent 2024 update that benefits many Nigerians). English at B2 scores 1 point. No qualifying language scores 0.

Since English is the first language for most educated Nigerians, the majority can reasonably claim at least 1 to 2 points here. Investing time to get to German B1 before applying changes your scoring picture significantly.

Age (up to 2 points)

Applicants under 35 get 2 points. Those aged 35 to 40 get 1 point. Those over 40 get 0 points in this category. Age is one of the few criteria you cannot change, so if you are close to a threshold, timing your application matters.

Bonus Criteria (up to 1 point each)

Two additional bonus categories exist. One point is available if you have previously studied or worked in Germany. Another point is available if your degree or occupation is in a shortage area: STEM fields, IT, healthcare, or skilled trades. Both can add 1 point each, but only one of each applies.

Table of Truth: Sample Score Scenarios

These are illustrative examples to help you sanity-check your inputs.

* Points are capped at the maximum of 9 for eligibility purposes. The system does not reward scores above the cap.

Why Germany Attracts Nigerians

Germany has the largest economy in Europe and a well-documented shortage of skilled workers across IT, engineering, healthcare, and construction. The government has been actively opening legal pathways for non-EU professionals to fill these gaps. The Chancenkarte is the most accessible of these pathways because it does not require a job offer upfront.

For Nigerians specifically, Germany also offers tuition-free public university education, a large existing Nigerian community, and a high quality of life at a cost lower than the UK or the US. The route is harder than Canada in terms of language, but more open than the UK in terms of cost and post-study rights.

Realistic Scenarios

Single applicant, no German

A 27-year-old with a BSc in Engineering, 4 years experience, and English C1 scores 3 + 1 + 2 + 2 + 1 (STEM) = 9 points. Strong candidate. The main challenge is the recognition process for the degree and funding the 1-year job search stay without a guaranteed income.

Applicant with a spouse

The Chancenkarte covers the primary applicant. Your spouse can accompany you on a dependent visa but is not scored in the points system. Your spouse’s right to work in Germany during the job search period depends on whether they also have a qualifying visa or a work permit. Budget for two people covering living costs of roughly EUR 1,200 to 1,800 per month combined for a basic setup in smaller German cities.

Applicant with spouse and child

A family of three significantly raises your cost threshold. Germany requires you to show sufficient funds before entry (typically EUR 12,000 to 15,000 as a proof of funds equivalent). Childcare is available but competitive in cities. Many families in this situation apply after securing a job offer directly via the EU Blue Card route, which does not require points.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Chancenkarte the same as a German work permit?

No. The Chancenkarte is a job search visa valid for 1 year. You can work up to 20 hours per week in any role while you search for a qualifying job. Once you receive a job offer in your field, you convert the visa to a work permit or EU Blue Card.

Does my HND count as a degree for the Chancenkarte?

An HND from a recognised Nigerian polytechnic may qualify as a vocational qualification (2 points) rather than a university degree (3 points), depending on the subject area and how the credential maps in the anabin database. You should check your specific institution before assuming 3 points.

Does the NYSC certificate add points?

Not directly. Your NYSC service year can count toward your work experience total if it was in your professional field. It does not add points as a separate qualification.

How much money do I need to apply?

You typically need to show proof of EUR 1,027 per month for the duration of your stay (approx. EUR 12,000 to 13,000 for the full year) in a blocked account or equivalent. This is an estimate and the official amount can change. Always verify with the German embassy or the official make-it-in-germany.com portal.

What if I score exactly 6 points?

6 points is the minimum. You are eligible to apply. A borderline score does not reduce your chances once you submit a complete application. The points threshold is a yes/no gate, not a ranking system.

Can I apply with a degree not listed in the anabin database?

Yes, but it takes longer. You would need to get a Statement of Comparability from the German academic evaluation centre (anabin/KMK) or a recognition assessment from the relevant German authority. This process takes 3 to 6 months typically.

Is there an age limit for the Chancenkarte?

There is no hard age cutoff. However, applicants over 45 score 0 age points, which makes it harder to reach 6 points without a very strong profile across other criteria.

What happens if I cannot find a job within 1 year?

The Chancenkarte expires after 1 year and cannot usually be extended for the same purpose. If you have not found a qualifying job, you would need to leave Germany or apply for a different visa category if eligible.