Germany · Jobs & visas
Scoring Six Points: A Step-by-Step Opportunity Card Points Guide for Nigerians
The points route turns on one number: six. Below is how each category scores, followed by sample applicants that show how Nigerians typically clear the bar.
The entry conditions come first
Before any points count, two basics must be in place: a qualification recognised by the state in Nigeria — a degree, or vocational training of two years or more — and minimum language skills, either A1 German or B2 English.
Miss either one and a high points score will not help.
Recognition: the four-point block
If German authorities partly recognise your qualification, or confirm you could reach full recognition with extra training, you gain 4 points — the biggest single item on the table.
That makes an early recognition application doubly useful: more points now, and a faster path into a real job later.
Experience: two or three points
Two years of relevant work in the last five years is worth 2 points; five years in the last seven is worth 3. It has to match your qualification — an accountant counts accounting roles, not unrelated jobs.
Ask past employers for reference letters that state your title, dates and hours; they are your evidence.
Languages: up to four points
German scores in steps — 1 point at A2, 2 at B1, 3 at B2 or above — and English at C1 or higher adds 1. Certificates must come from recognised exam bodies.
For many Nigerians, German is the quickest win: going from A1 to B1 takes a few months of focused study and adds 2 points.
Age, prior stays and extras
Under-35s get 2 points, and 35- to 40-year-olds get 1. Six months or more of legal residence in Germany in the last five years — for study or work, not holidays — adds 1 point.
A shortage occupation earns another point, and so does a spouse or partner who applies with you and meets the conditions.
Sample applicants
Tunde, 28, data analyst: BSc in statistics, 3 years' experience (2), B1 German (2), under 35 (2), shortage field (1) — 7 points.
Ngozi, 37, welder: 3-year trade certificate partly recognised (4), 7 years' experience (3), aged 35–40 (1) — 8 points.
Ibrahim, 30, pharmacist: recognition under way, 4 years' experience (2), A2 German (1), under 35 (2), shortage field (1) — 6 points, right on the line; more German would give him a cushion.
Estimating your own score
Go through the categories one by one and keep the proof for each beside it. Germany's official 'Make it in Germany' portal has the current table and a self-check; only the embassy's decision is final, so treat every calculator — this guide included — as an estimate.
Common questions
Do I always need six points?Six is the threshold for the points route. If your qualification is fully recognised, points do not apply.
Will my IELTS result count?Recognised English certificates at the right level count — confirm the accepted list with the German mission before booking an exam.
Can my score change over time?Yes. Age and experience are measured on the application date, so when you apply can move your total.
General information only — not legal or immigration advice. Fees, thresholds and rules change, so check current requirements with the responsible German mission or official German government portals before applying or paying.