Germany · for applicants from Nigeria
A points-based job-seeker residence permit (Section 20a Residence Act) letting skilled non-EU nationals live in Germany up to 12 months to look for qualified work. Two routes in: (a) already a recognised skilled worker (no points needed), or (b) the points system needing at least 6 points. Part-time work up to 20 hrs/week and 2-week trials allowed.
Rules last verified: 20 August 2026 · by Elizabeth O
Embassy processing
Varies by mission
Our turnaround
5–7 working days
Done-for-you Standard
Government fees
~£64
≈ ₦116,608
Below 6 points
Points route applicant does not reach 6.
Fix: Add points: German level, experience, age, or a joint-applicant partner.
Qualification not assessable
Degree/vocational qualification not on ANABIN / not comparable.
Fix: Check ANABIN (H+) or get a ZAB assessment before applying.
Funds not shown
Below €1,091/month proof for 2026.
Fix: Open a blocked account at the current required amount.
Required
Valid passport
When: "all"
Degree / vocational qualification certificates
When: "all"
ANABIN/recognition evidence (or proof points reached)
When: "all"
Language certificate (A1 German or B2 English)
When: "all"
Proof of funds (blocked account / declaration of commitment)
When: "all"
Health insurance
When: "all"
1. Prepare your application
Gather documents, draft supporting letters, complete forms
1–3 weeks
2. Rekoja review (if Done-for-you)
Specialist checks your file before you submit
5–7 working days
3. Submit online or at visa centre
Biometrics appointment may be required
1 day
4. Embassy decision
Standard processing. Priority options may be available.
Varies by mission
These are the fees you pay to the government, not Rekoja's service fee. Shown at the indicative exchange rate.
Mandatory
Opportunity Card visa
£64
₦116,608
Total government fees
~£64
≈ ₦116,608
Proof of funds (must hold, not pay)
Financial self-sufficiency
£11,210
₦20,424,620
Indicative. 1 GBP = 1,822 NGN · 16 September 2026. Government fees change. Confirm on the official website before paying.
A free AI can tell you the rules. Rekoja does the harder part: we verify them against the official government source, prepare the actual application file, catch what gets people refused, and a specialist checks everything before you submit. We stand behind our work.
Free. The documents this route asks for and the all-in cost, in your currency. No signup to see them.
We carry Germany and the work route over from this page. The first screen shows both so you can change them, then it is two answers about you and picking your route. Your full profile is checked later, with your desk team.
Sourced answers to the most-searched questions about this corridor are being verified and will appear here. Start the free assessment or ask the desk directly.
Real, consented, initials-only outcomes with days-to-decision will appear here as cases close. The embassy decides; past results do not guarantee future outcomes.
Many work routes include an interview or credibility check. Done-for-you Premium includes a live interview-preparation session with a specialist: the questions officers actually ask on this route, practised with you before the real thing.
Preparation improves your readiness, not the decision. Practice, never a guarantee.
Other routes to Germany
Free. Two answers about you, then your checklist and the all-in cost for this route. No signup to see them.
Get my checklist and prices free →Not a visa decision or legal advice. Rules shown are as of the last verification date above. Immigration rules change. Confirm before filing. The embassy decides, not Rekoja.