Opportunity Card for job search
In brief
The Opportunity Card under section 20a of the Residence Act can be accessed through a recognised qualification or the points system. In both routes, the applicant must secure their livelihood; the competent authority decides the application.
Type of sources used
The page is based exclusively on the official sources listed below, reviewed on 19 August 2026.
Two access routes
Official guidance distinguishes applicants with a qualification recognised in Germany from applicants qualifying through the points system. This website does not assess recognition or points.
Financing and health insurance
The visa process requires proof that living costs are secured. Official guidance lists options such as a blocked account or declaration of commitment. A current Federal Foreign Office checklist states that the Opportunity Card health-insurance proof can be either private German health insurance valid throughout the Schengen area, with at least €30,000 coverage and validity for the full validity period of the Opportunity Card, or German public health insurance evidenced by a letter from the German health insurer together with travel health insurance for the first three weeks. Proof must be provided no later than visa collection. The checklist of the competent German mission remains decisive.
Work while searching
While searching for work, the official rules allow one or more secondary jobs totalling no more than 20 hours per week. Trial employment of up to two weeks per employer is also permitted when it is aimed at qualified employment, vocational training or a qualification measure. The issued residence title and current official rules remain decisive.
Questions about this page
- Is the Opportunity Card automatically a work visa for any job?
- No. It is a job-search residence title with limited permitted work; a different title may be needed for lasting employment.
- Will any insurance certificate be accepted?
- The competent mission or authority decides that; this website does not approve documents.
Where to verify this authoritatively
Always confirm the individual case with the competent mission, authority or institution using the linked official source.
Sources
- Opportunity Card for job search
- Publisher:
- German Federal Government – Make it in Germany
- Classification:
- Official source
- Scope:
- Official requirements, financing and permitted activities
- Reviewed on:
- Opportunity Card: health insurance
- Publisher:
- Federal Foreign Office – German Embassy Dhaka
- Classification:
- Official source
- Scope:
- Official requirements on Schengen validity, minimum coverage, policy duration and proof timing
- Reviewed on:
- Applying for a visa
- Publisher:
- German Federal Government – Make it in Germany
- Classification:
- Official source
- Scope:
- Official overview of the application route and the bodies involved
- Reviewed on:
Note
General source-based information only. No legal, visa or insurance advice and no individual assessment.