Enter Germany without a job offer and look for work on the ground. Here is who qualifies and what you need.
What the Opportunity Card is
The Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) is a German residence permit for skilled people from outside the EU. It lets you enter Germany for up to one year to look for a job — you do not need a job offer to apply.
While you search, you may work part-time for up to 20 hours a week, or take trial employment with a company.
Two ways to qualify
If your degree or vocational qualification is fully recognised in Germany, you qualify directly and no points are needed.
If it is only partly recognised, you need at least 6 points. Points come from qualification recognition, German or English language level, work experience, age, an earlier stay in Germany and a partner who applies with you.
What you need
A valid passport, your degree with the ZAB recognition statement, a language certificate (German A1 or higher, or English B2 or higher), a blocked account of about €12,000–€13,000 and health insurance for your stay.
Visa processing in India typically takes 6–12 weeks, so apply well before your travel date.