Work in Germany and the Opportunity Card for Nigerians

Route overview

Who this route is for

Nigerians with a recognised qualification or vocational training, or graduates, who want to work or look for skilled work in Germany.

Who this route is not for

People without a recognised qualification or relevant experience, or who expect a job without applying. The Opportunity Card is a job-seeker route, not a work permit by itself.

Choose your situation

Pick the category closest to your situation.

Eligibility overview

Routes depend on your qualification and points. The Opportunity Card uses a points system (qualification, experience, language, age, ties). The EU Blue Card needs a recognised degree and a qualifying salary. Check recognition of your qualification first.

Step-by-step preparation

1. Use the Make it in Germany Quick-Check to see your route.
2. Get your qualification recognised where required.
3. Apply for the Opportunity Card, or with a job offer the relevant work visa, at the German mission in Nigeria.
4. After arrival, register and, for the Opportunity Card, find qualifying work.

Forms and documents

Official forms

• Visa application via the German mission in Nigeria
• Qualification recognition (where required)

Document requirements

Recognised qualification or proof of vocational training, CV, proof of funds for the job-seeking phase, and health insurance. Language evidence where relevant.

Nigerian-specific issues

Degrees and certificates usually need recognition and may need verification by the German mission. Nigerian documents often need MFA authentication and German Embassy verification. Use genuine NPC and Federal records.

Common mistakes

• Assuming the Opportunity Card is a work permit – it is a job-seeker route.
• Skipping qualification recognition.
• Underestimating the funds needed for the job-seeking period.

Official sources

Make it in Germany ↗Federal Foreign Office ↗Recognition in Germany ↗

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