Job Seeker Visa (Chancenkarte) vs Skilled Worker Visa (Qualified)

If you're choosing between these two, the question usually comes down to whether you already have a job offer lined up. Germany's Job Seeker Visa gives you a year to find employment without needing an employer sponsor first, while the Skilled Worker Visa fast-tracks you into a role you've already secured. Your situation determines which path makes sense.

1. 01

   You have a job offer

   Pick §20 AufenthG

   Job Seeker Visa if you want flexibility to negotiate or explore other roles first.

   Pick §18a AufenthG

   Skilled Worker Visa if your offer is confirmed and you're ready to commit immediately.

2. 02

   Path to permanent residency

   Pick §20 AufenthG

   Job Seeker Visa offers no direct PR pathway after the visa expires.

   Pick §18a AufenthG

   Skilled Worker Visa leads to PR in roughly 4 years of continuous employment.

3. 03

   Time to start working

   Pick §20 AufenthG

   Job Seeker Visa gives you 1 year to find and secure a position.

   Pick §18a AufenthG

   Skilled Worker Visa is valid for 4 years once you're in the job.

4. 04

   Employer sponsorship needed

   Pick §20 AufenthG

   Job Seeker Visa requires no employer sponsor to apply.

   Pick §18a AufenthG

   Skilled Worker Visa requires employer sponsorship and commitment.