1. Basic Language Requirement (Mandatory)

To apply under Option 2 (points-based route)—meaning your foreign qualification is not fully recognized in Germany—you must demonstrate either:

• German at CEFR level A1, or

• English at CEFR level B2.

This requirement is mandatory to be even considered, regardless of whether your qualification is recognized or partially recognized.

2. Certification and Official Proof

You need official certificates from recognized institutions:

For German

• Goethe-Institut

• telc

• ÖSD (Austrian Language Diploma)

• TestDaF (for higher levels)

For English

• IELTS (ALTE-certified)

• TOEFL

• Cambridge English (B2 First)

• PTE Academic (for English B2)

Note: Pearson (PTE Pearson) is not accepted in some cases

3. Language Proficiency and Points (for Scoring)

After fulfilling the basic requirement, your language level can earn you points in the overall scoring system—important if your qualification doesn’t grant automatic eligibility:

• You can combine points from both languages (e.g., B1 German + C1 English → 3 total language points).

Context & Practical Insights

• If your qualification is fully recognized, you can apply directly—language certification is not strictly required, although having one may strengthen your case.

• From real-world experiences (Reddit discussions):

  “Since 01.06 as a graduate from a foreign university your way to come to Germany to seek a job is the Opportunity Card. You need to prove your language skills via a English proficiency test certified by ALTE or TOEFL.”

  “Basically, you can certainly get this opportunity card if a) you have B2 or higher language certificate and b) more than 5 years of work experience.”

Summary Checklist: Language for Opportunity Card

• Mandatory Requirement: German A1 or English B2

• Valid Certificate:

  • German: Goethe, telc, ÖSD

  • English: IELTS (ALTE), TOEFL, Cambridge B2, PTE Academic (but note Pearson limitations)

• For Partial-Recognition Applicants: Language skills count toward points:

  • German: A2 (1), B1 (2), B2+ (3)

  • Add English C1 for +1 point

• Combine languages for higher total language score.