In short: The Opportunity Card (§ 20a Residence Act) lets skilled people from non-EU countries come to Germany for up to one year to look for a job. You qualify either with a fully recognised qualification or with at least 6 points. For 2026 you must prove funds of at least EUR 1,091 net per month. Important for nurses: the card is for job searching – you may not work as a registered nurse until you hold the German professional licence.
Note: This page provides general information and is not legal advice. The law and the decisions of the competent authorities are decisive; rules can change. As of October 2026.
Two ways to qualify
- Full recognition: if your qualification is already fully recognised in Germany, you can apply as a skilled worker without points.
- Points system: otherwise you need a qualification recognised by the state where you obtained it (a university degree or at least two years of vocational training), German at level A1 or English at level B2, and at least 6 points.
How points are awarded
- Partial recognition of your qualification in Germany: 4 points
- Work experience: 5 years in the last 7: 3 points; 2 years in the last 5: 2 points
- German language: B2: 3 points, B1: 2, A2: 1; English C1: 1 point
- Age: up to 35: 2 points; 36 to 40: 1 point
- Qualification in a shortage occupation: 1 point (nursing counts as a shortage occupation)
- At least 6 months of legal stay in Germany in the last 5 years: 1 point
- Spouse or partner who also qualifies and comes with you: 1 point
Proof of funds
For 2026 the guideline is at least EUR 1,091 net per month, usually proven with a blocked account (Sperrkonto), a formal declaration of commitment by a sponsor in Germany (§ 68 Residence Act) or a part-time job contract. Check the exact requirements with the German mission responsible for your country.
What you may do with the card
- Look for a qualified job for up to 12 months.
- Work part-time up to 20 hours per week and do trial work of up to two weeks per employer.
- Switch to a work residence permit (for example § 18a, Blue Card or a recognition-related permit under § 16d) once you find a suitable job and meet its conditions.
Is it a good route for nurses?
Nursing is a regulated profession in Germany: to work as a registered nurse (Pflegefachfrau/Pflegefachmann) you need a licence from the competent state authority. Many international nurses therefore use the recognition partnership (§ 16d (3)) or the adaptation-measure visa (§ 16d (1)) with a concrete employer instead. The Opportunity Card can make sense if you already have strong German, want to find an employer on site, and have the funds to cover your stay. Compare the routes in our guides before you decide.
How Berlin Tehran helps
We help healthcare professionals prepare their documents in an orderly way and coordinate with employers in Germany, following a transparent 8-step process with up to 90 days of support after arrival. We are specialised in Iran and support healthcare professionals from all countries where private recruitment is permitted. We do not provide legal advice; authorities make all decisions.
Apply as a healthcare professional Our ethical recruitment rules
Related guides
- Recognition partnership (§ 16d (3))
- Blue Card or § 18a?
- Knowledge test or adaptation course?
- Apply with Berlin Tehran
Frequently asked questions
Can I work as a nurse with the Opportunity Card?
Not as a registered nurse until you hold the German professional licence. You may work part-time up to 20 hours per week, for example in a non-regulated assisting role, and do trial work.
How much money do I need for the Opportunity Card in 2026?
At least EUR 1,091 net per month according to the official guideline for 2026, usually proven with a blocked account, a declaration of commitment or a part-time job contract.
How many points do nurses typically get?
It depends on your profile. Partial recognition alone gives 4 points; nursing counts as a shortage occupation (1 point); language, experience and age add more. You need at least 6.
Is the Opportunity Card better than the recognition partnership?
For most nurses with a job offer, the recognition partnership under § 16d (3) is more direct. The Opportunity Card suits people who want to search for a job in Germany and can finance their stay.