A method for sorting optoelectronic semiconductor components is specified. The semiconductor components each include an active region for emission or detection of electromagnetic radiation. The method includes the following steps: introducing the semiconductor components into a sorting region on a specified path; irradiating the optoelectronic semiconductor components with electromagnetic radiation of a first wavelength range to generate dipole moments by charge separation in the active regions of the optoelectronic semiconductor components; and deflecting the optoelectronic semiconductor components from the specified path as a function of their dipole moment by means of a non-homogeneous electromagnetic field. A device for sorting optoelectronic semiconductor components is further specified.