Germany Jobseeker Visa

Germany's job seeker permit for skilled workers abroad no longer exists. Its status is closed: the job search permit under Section 20 of the Residence Act for qualified people coming from abroad was replaced on June 1, 2024.

Its successor: Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte). Skilled workers with a fully recognized qualification get it without points. The Opportunity Card page has the current rules.

Section 20 now covers only a job search after study, training, research or a recognition measure completed in Germany. The Germany guide compares the routes that remain open.

New applications are not possible. Skilled workers abroad who want to look for a job in Germany apply for the Opportunity Card instead.

Graduates of a German university, vocational training, research stay or recognition measure can still get a job search permit under Section 20 for up to 18 months after finishing.

The old requirements no longer apply. The documents for the successor route are on the Opportunity Card page.

No fee applies, since the permit cannot be applied for. The Opportunity Card page lists the current visa fee and proof of funds.

German missions no longer accept applications for this permit. Job seekers abroad apply for the Opportunity Card through the responsible German embassy or consulate.

The permit is no longer issued or extended. The post-study job search under Section 20 lasts up to 18 months. The Opportunity Card runs for up to 12 months, with a follow-up card of up to two years for holders with a qualifying job offer.

Tax residency in Germany does not depend on the permit. It starts with a home in Germany or a continuous stay of more than 6 months under Section 9 of the Fiscal Code. The Germany guide covers the tax basics.