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The EU Blue Card , Date: 2023.11.18 , format: Article , area: Migration and residence

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The EU Blue Card is a residence permit for University graduates and third-party nationals with specific professional experience, which facilitates and promotes the permanent immigration of highly-qualified workers to Germany from non-EU countries.

Further information on the detailed requirements for an EU Blue Card application can be found at www.make-it-germany.com .

Competent authorities

Validity of the eu blue card.

The EU Blue Card is a temporary residence permit that is issued for a period of four years as a matter of principle. If the duration of the employment contract is shorter than four years, the EU Blue Card is issued for the duration of the employment contract, plus three months. However, an employment contract or binding offer of employment for a period of at least six months is required in all cases. If the conditions are met, it can be extended. The competent foreign office can suspend a change in job of an EU Blue Card holder for 30 days and reject it within this period in the first twelve months of employment.

If you live outside the EU, you will generally require a visa for the purpose of gainful employment which will be issued by the competent German diplomatic mission. You can enter Germany on this visa. Prior to expiry of the visa, you must subsequently apply to the local immigration authority for the EU Blue Card.

The following exceptions apply:

• Nationals of Australia, Canada, Israel, Japan, the Republic of Korea, New Zealand, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the United States of America may enter Germany without requiring a visa, and must subsequently apply for the EU Blue Card at the immigration authority that is responsible for the place where they live within three months. They may take up employment once the EU Blue Card has been issued.
• Individuals who have held an EU Blue Card in another EU Member State for at least 12 months may enter Germany without requiring a visa. They have to apply for an EU Blue Card in Germany at the immigration authority that is responsible for the place where they live within one month of entering the country.
• Individuals who are already living in Germany and hold another residence title may file an application for the EU Blue Card with the immigration authority competent for their place of residence.

Benefits of the residence title

Good to know.

An EU Blue Card can be applied for in all EU Member States apart from Denmark and Ireland. Slight differences apply with regard to the conditions, such as the amount of the gross annual salary.

• There is a legal entitlement to an EU Blue Card if the conditions are met.
• The EU Blue Card simplifies the requirements for mobility within the European Union.
• Relaxation of the conditions for family reunification: Your family members enjoy less stringent conditions pertaining to family reunification. Spouses are entitled to issuance of a residence title without requiring a knowledge of German, for example, and are granted immediate and unlimited permission to take up employment.

Faster acquisition of a settlement permit: Holders of an EU Blue Card will receive a settlement permit after 33 months in Germany if they have been in highly-qualified employment and paid contributions into a pension fund during this period, and are able to make themselves understood in German on a basic level. The qualification period is shortened to 21 months for persons with an adequate knowledge of German (level B1).

You must meet the following additional pre-conditions:

• basic knowledge of the legal and social order and of living conditions in Germany,
• sufficient living space for you and your family members living with you in the same household,
• secured subsistence,
• proof of holding all permits required for permanent employment,
• the granting of a settlement permit must not be precluded by reasons of public safety and order.

The legal basis

• Section 18 of the Residence Act Policy on immigration by skilled workers
• Section 18c of the Residence Act Settlement permit for skilled workers
• Section 18g AufenthG (German Residence Act) EU Blue Card
• Section 19f of the Residence Act Grounds for rejection
• Directive (EU) 2021/1883

Further information

Texts and articles.

• Mobility: EU Blue Card
• Settling in Germany
• Subsequent immigration to join third-country nationals
• Make it in Germany: EU Blue Card
• Make it in Germany: Kinds of visa
• Web portal "Recognition in Germany": academic recognition

Working & Researching in Heidelberg Blue Card EU

Scientists and scholars from countries outside of the EU can apply for the Blue Card EU according to §18g (formerly§18b) German Residence Act as a temporary work permit.

Requirements

• Applicants must have completed a university degree (a German university degree or a degree from a foreign university that is either recognized or comparable to a German degree).
• Applicants must have an employment contract or a binding employment offer in Germany with a minimum salary and a minimum duration of six months.
• Minimum gross salary is 45,300 Euro (as of 2024).  Exception: minimum gross salary is 41,041.80 Euro (as of 2024) in so-called STEM disciplines such as the subjects of mathematics, computer science, natural sciences, technology and human medicine, as well as for other bottleneck professions listed on the ISCO classification. It is necessary to obtain the approval of the Federal Employment Agency.
• The residence permit can be issued for up to 4 years, at the most, however, for the length of the employment contract plus three months.
• A permanent residence permit ( Niederlassungserlaubnis ) can be obtained after 33 months of employment (presumably from March 1st 2024 on after 27 months) or after 21 months with proof of good German language proficiency (B1).
• After 12 months, the holder can travel to another EU country and within one month can apply for the Blue Card EU in that country (not valid for Ireland and Denmark!).
• After 12 months, the holder can change the employer within Germany without the consent of the Immigration Office (before completing the 12 months the employer has to inform the Immigration Office).
• Easier application for a visa for family reunion for the holder's family members, in case they have lived in another member state before (the proof of living space and subsistence is no longer required).
• Researchers with a Blue Card EU for Germany are allowed to leave the European Union up to 12 months. 

Documents for a Blue Card EU

Further information.

An employment confirmation letter of the hiring institute is required. It is not possible to use a hosting agreement (according to §18d German Residence Act) for a  Blue Card application.

Blue Card EU

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EU Blue Card

The EU blue card for Germany is a residence title for specific purposes; it provides an evidence for the legal stay of a citizen from a non-EU-country in an EU- member state for the purpose of working. So the blue card is a card for citizens from non-EU-states. For members of EU- states generosity is valid concerning their stay. The EU- regulations concerning the blue card will be valid in Germany as a part of the German law from the 1 st  August 2012, through the law for reaction of the high- qualification –outline of the European Union. In particular, the stay law was modified. The core regulation of the stay law is addressed by the EU blue card. The most important paragraph is section 19a of the German Residence Act – EU Blue Card.

Conversion of the highly qualified directive of the European Union

Conversion of the highly qualified directive of the European Union is the basis of the EU Blue Card; namely, the directive can be found in 2009 / 50 /EG. The blue card grants a stay in the EU to highly qualified non-EU-state members. This should help to combat the shortage of skilled workers. The rules for the administration of the single EU states are outside of the rules of action of the EU. These rules do not control the immigration of citizens from non EU- states, who are staying in the EU to research projects, who enter the EU because of family unification for migrants living in Germany or who cannot be deported. Owners of the EU blue card will get the same salary as citizens of the EU who do in the same job. The equalisation concerning the rights for education or welfare is not yet a law but shall be practiced that way. The EU blue card is limited. The duration of this limit is one to four years. The format in the EU is the same in all member states and belongs to the legal order (EG) 1030/2002.

The following section provides answers to the most important questions concerning the EU blue card.

Who can apply for the EU blue card?

A foreigner, a citizen of a non-EU- country, can apply for the EU blue card if a) he or she has a German or an accredited foreign or a university degree that is comparable to a German one. b) he or she has a working contract with a gross annual compensation of at least €50.800 (4.134 Euros per month), a contract in the so-called shortage occupation (scientists, mathematics, engineers, doctors and IT- skilled workers) with the amount of €39.624 (3302 Euros per month).

Does a foreigner need to apply for the EU blue card before he enters the country?

Yes. The journey into Germany complies with the general entry rules. Therefore, a citizen of a non-EU-country needs to apply for the EU blue card before his entry into Germany. The German representation embassy abroad is responsible in each case.

How long is the blue card valid for?

The EU blue card is at first valid for 4 years. If the working contract covers a period of less than 4 years, meaning it is limited, the EU blue card will be valid for the time of the working contract plus 3 months.

It can be extended or establishment permission can be given.

When can the owner of a blue card qualify for a permanent right of residence?

Foreigners who own the EU blue card can apply for permanent residence after 33 months. If they have German language knowledge at level B1 then they can apply earlier after 21 months (19a, passage 6, law of residence).

Can the EU card become invalid if a person stays in a non-EU country for a longer time?

Owners of the EU blue card can stay out of the EU for up to 12 months without losing the right of staying in Germany or the EU.

Can owners of the EU blue card move to another EU country?

Owners of the EU blue card have the right, after having stayed in Germany for 18 months, to move to another country of the EU.

Will the duration of stay in another state of the EU be considered concerning the permanent right of residence?

If the foreigner has already stayed in another EU-member state with the EU blue card, this will be considered concerning the permanent right of residence in Germany.

Is it necessary to carry out a visa procedure to move around in the EU?

If the foreigner wants to move on in the EU, he / she can be sure that in almost all EU member states a visa is not necessary. The application can be made at home. In Germany the application must be made within one month after entering Germany.

Is a priority check carried out? Are members of the German job market treated better?

Check of priority means that a check will be done to see whether German employees are potential candidates for the job. Such a check is done within the salary borders. But there will be a check of the working conditions. If a salary of at least € 39.624 will be paid there will be a priority check for non- shortage occupations, so the EU blue card can be given.

Can relatives of the EU blue card owners work without limits in Germany?

Relatives of the owners of the EU blue card can work without delay and without limits in Germany.

Do spouses need to have proof of German language knowledge?

The spouse is not required to have proof of German language knowledge. Even simple knowledge of the German language is not necessary for marriage partners.

Immigration to Germany

For more information about the topic immigration to Germany have a look at this site:  immigration to germany . There you can read in detail which visa is necessary for entering Germany, you can inform yourself about the different kinds of residence permit and about the subsequent family immigration.

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On 23 June 2023, the German Bundestag passed a new immigration law for skilled workers (Fachkräfteeinwanderungsgesetz). The new law will come into effect beginning in November 2023 , with new regulations being introduced gradually. We plan to update our website when the law is fully in effect . Until then, please make sure to check individually if information on entry, the EU Blue Card, recognition of qualifications and family reunion is up to date. Some changes also affect refugees who are in an asylum procedure. Please note: the law aims at loosening regulations and will not create more restrictions. An English-language summary of the new regulations can be found on the Make it in Germany website.

iStock.com/Jacob Wackerhausen

As an international researcher, relatively simple entry conditions will apply to you. If you are a citizen of the EU , a citizen of the European Economic Area (ERA) or a Swiss citizen , you do not need any particular permit or visa. You can research and work here. You only need a valid passport or ID card.

If you are an international researcher already working or doing a PhD in the EU , you can also spend a certain period of time – up to 180 days for short-term mobility and up to a year for long-term mobility – conducting research in Germany without applying for any additional residence permit. Your host institution merely has to notify the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees accordingly.

iStock.com/AndreyPopov

Visa requirements for non-EU citizens

In all other cases, a visa will be required if you are not from the EU, a country of the European Economic Area or Switzerland and intend to work as a researcher in Germany. You will have to apply for the respective visa in your country of residence by visiting the relevant German diplomatic mission – an embassy or consulate – in person.

Depending on what you wish to do in Germany, special visa are available to you as a researcher:

• a visa for studying
• a visa for researchers and scientists or
• an EU Blue Card , a special residence title for international academics.

Make sure to check in good time with the German diplomatic mission in your country of residence to find out which conditions apply to you and which requirements you will need to meet. You should also check if there are any documents that need to be translated into German before your visa application or if any of your qualifications need to be officially recognised .

You can find more information on the recognition of foreign professional qualifications on our page for refugee researchers.

After your visa is approved, once you have arrived in Germany you will have to apply for a residence permit , usually at the local foreigners’ office or immigration office (Ausländerbehörde or Landesamt für Einwanderung). Some countries , such as Australia, Israel, Japan and the USA, have agreements with Germany: their citizens do not need an entry visa and only have to obtain the required residence permits after arrival.

Residence permits for international researchers

Upon arrival in Germany, you will apply on the basis of your visa for a corresponding residence permit. You can read here which residence permits are available to you as an international researcher and what rights they give you.

Studying for a PhD

You are interested in a PhD in Germany and have been accepted into a PhD programme at a state-recognised university in Germany? Then you can obtain a residence permit for study purposes . It is valid for up to two years and can be extended.

Besides your confirmation of admission from the university, you also need to demonstrate that you can cover your living expenses – for example with a scholarship. However, as a PhD student you are also permitted to work for up to 120 days (or 240 half days) per year.

There are different ways to obtain a doctorate in Germany. If you work with a contract at a university or research institution while doing your PhD, you can apply for a residence permit for research purposes or an EU Blue Card (see below).

A residence permit for study or research purposes also allows you to study for up to 360 days in other EU member states (with the exception of Ireland and Denmark).

Doing research

If you are a researcher with a university degree that gives you access to doctoral programmes , simple regulations will apply to you: you will receive a residence permit for research purposes . This presupposes that a research institution has signed a contract with you to pursue your research project. The research residence permit also enables you to do teaching work as a scientist.

If your research work is not publicly funded for the most part, your host institution must provide written confirmation that it will cover your costs of living and departure, if necessary.

This residence permit allows you to spend at least one year researching and teaching in Germany with the possibility to extend it for a longer period of time. After four years, you can apply for an indefinite settlement permit in Germany. Another advantage is that you can easily spend a temporary period researching and teaching in other EU countries (apart from Ireland and Denmark).

EU Blue Card

The EU Blue Card is a special residence permit for graduates from outside the EU who wish to work in Germany (or the EU).

You are entitled to an EU Blue Card if you

• have a university degree that is recognised in Germany,
• have a binding offer of a job that matches your qualifications in Germany and
• will earn at least 58,400 euros gross per year in your new job (in exceptional cases, and with the approval of the Federal Employment Agency, only up to 45,552 euros).

The EU Blue Card initially allows you to work in Germany for up to four years (less in the case of fixed-term employment contracts).

After 33 months, it is possible to obtain a settlement permit , which then allows you to live and work in Germany indefinitely . If you have a sufficient command of German (the requirement is level B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages ), this is possible after just 21 months.

As an EU Blue Card holder, you can obtain the right of permanent residence in the EU after five years. In addition to the time you have spent in Germany, any periods in which you lived in another EU member state will also count towards the total.

Highly qualified professionals

If you are a researcher with special technical knowledge or a teacher or research associate in a prominent position with several years of professional experience, you count as highly qualified.

This means that you can obtain a permanent settlement permit immediately after entry. This requires you to prove that you can cover your living expenses in Germany.

Good to know

If you require a visa, check the requirements before starting the process ; some bureaucratic procedures in your country may take time.

Visa application is by appointment only . Arrange an appointment as early as possible and check which (certified) documents you will need to bring with you.

Do not travel on a tourist visa if you wish to work in Germany. A tourist visa cannot be modified or extended.

In general, your visa remains valid for up to six months . Within this period, you must apply to the local immigration office for a residence permit on the basis of your visa.

Citizens of so-called Schengen countries can cross the borders of all Schengen Agreement member states without passport checks. However, not all EU members fully apply the Schengen Agreement, while some non-EU countries do. If you have a Schengen visa, you can spend up to 90 days in the Schengen area. Visiting other EU states which are not Schengen states may require a separate visa.

More information

• Visa navigator of the Federal Foreign Office
• FAQs regarding visas for Germany by the Federal Foreign Office
• Visa and entry regulations explained step by step on the Make it in Germany website
• Interactive world map with an overview of Germany’s diplomatic missions abroad on the Make it in Germany website
• Information for scientists coming to Germany by the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF)
• Information on entry requirements as well as short- and long-term mobility within the EU for non-EU citizens on the EU Immigration Portal

EU Blue Card for Germany in 2024 - salary, requirements

What is the eu blue card, what are the benefits of a blue card.

• You don't need to know German to get a Blue Card
• The holder of the EU Blue Card can obtain a permanent residence permit (Niederlassungserlaubnis) in Germany in as little as 33 months, as opposed to 4 years as with other relocation options. To do this, you need to prove elementary knowledge of the German language. If you can prove your knowledge of German at level B1, then you can get a permanent residence permit in just 21 months instead of 33 months.
• Simplified procedure for moving family members: husband/wife and children can move to Germany with you. To do this, your husband or wife does not need to know German, unlike other residence permit options in Germany
• The spouse of a Blue Card holder can work in Germany without restrictions
• Simplified procedure for obtaining a visa to move to Germany

What salary is needed for a Blue Card for Germany in 2024?

There are two salary limits for a Blue Card: the regular salary limit and the reduced salary limit. The reduced salary limit applies to occupations with a shortage or to applicants who have acquired a university degree within three years before submitting the documents for a Blue Card. The following professions are considered to be in shortage:

• specialists in information technology
• mathematicians
• specialists in natural sciences
• medical workers (excluding dentistry)
• veterinarians
• pharmacists
• nurses and midwives
• educational workers and childcare workers
• communication specialists
• leadership positions in technology, manufacturing, mining, construction, and logistics.

From 1 January 2024, the normal salary threshold for a Blue Card will be 45,300 €, and the reduced threshold will be 41,042 €.

How to get an EU Blue Card for Germany?

• Find a job in Germany and sign an employment contract with a German employer.
• Check your diploma at ANABIN . If your diploma has already been entered there, then proceed to the next point. If your diploma is not there, then you need to order an assessment of your education document from the Central Office for Foreign Education (ZAB - Zentralstelle für ausländisches Bildungswesen).
• Collect a package of documents and apply for a national visa at the embassy or consulate of your place of residence.
• Upon arrival in Germany, contact the Foreigners' Authority (Ausländerbehörde) and apply for an EU Blue Card.

If at the moment your official place of residence is outside the European Union, then usually you need to contact the German embassy or consulate in your place of residence and apply for a national visa. Further, after entering Germany, you must apply for a Blue Card at the Ausländerbehörde (Ausländerbehörde - Foreigners' Authority) in Germany.

• If you are a citizen of Australia, Israel, Japan, Canada, Republic of Korea, New Zealand, UK and USA, you can enter without a visa and must apply for an EU Blue Card within three months at the Foreigners' Authority at the place of residence. After issuing the EU blue card, you can start employment.
• If you have held the EU Blue Card of another EU member state for at least 18 months, you can enter Germany without a visa. An application for an EU Blue Card in Germany must be submitted within one month after entering Germany at the Foreigners' Authority of your place of residence. After issuing the EU Blue Card, you can start employment.
• If you already live in Germany with a different residence permit, you can apply for an EU Blue Card at the Foreigners' Authority in your place of residence.

EU Blue Card

Can I obtain an EU Blue Card?

The EU Blue Card is similar to the American Green Card. It is a special form of residence permit for those who want to work as qualified professionals in Germany.  You can apply for an EU Blue Card whether you are already in Germany or still abroad in another EU country or a so-called "third country". You can find out how to apply in section "Where can I apply for an EU Blue Card?" below.

The new EU Blue Card: From November 18, 2023, the immigration options with EU Blue Card are partially expanded . The requirements are regulated in Sections 18 , 18b , 18c , 18g and 19g of the Residence Act , which are based on the EU Directive 2021/1883 .

The EU Blue Card offers the opportunity to apply for a national residence permit in accordance with Section 18g Residence Act . It can be a great option for academic professionals , experienced IT specialists without a university degree and graduates of so-called "tertiary education programmes".

Advantages of the new EU Blue Card : More occupational groups are taken into account and the minimum salary thresholds have been lowered. German language skills no longer need to be proven in order to apply for an EU Blue Card. This also applies to the reunification of spouses. Easier access to permanent residence ( S ettlement P ermit according to § 18c para. 2 Residence Act ) is also significant: residence periods are much shorter and employment is subject to social security contribution s . In addition, the language requirements for applying for permanent residence have been significantly lowered (A1 is sufficient).

Important : T he new EU Blue Card regulations require quite an adjustment within German bureaucracy . Therefore, the process may be slightly delayed. 

Please note: An EU Blue Card can be applied for in all EU Member States except Denmark, and Ireland. However, the preconditions, such as the amount of the minimum annual salary, differ from country to country.

If you have any further questions, you can visit our community platform “ Together in Germany ”. Our community managers will be happy to help !

*Th e information on this page has been  reviewed and verified by lawyer Astrid Meyerhöfer.

What do I need to know?

The new EU Blue Card regulations ( since November 18, 2023 ) will make it easier for qualified skilled workers to immigrate to Germany. For example, the salary thresholds are lower than before. In addition, more professionals can apply for the EU Blue Card, including:

• Individuals who have a German academic degree , and a binding job offer or a current job contract in their specific field ,
• Individuals who have a foreign academic degree recognised in Germany and a binding job offer or a current job contract in their specific field ,
• Individuals who have a comparable higher education qualification  and a binding job offer or a current job contract in their specific field ,

with a minimum annual gross salary of at least € 43.800 , that is, 50%  of the annual contribution ceiling in the general pension insurance in Germany (“ Beitragsbemessungsgrenze in der allgemeinen Rentenversicherung ”). 

Individuals who have completed a tertiary education programme (e.g., in colleges, technical training institutes, and vocational schools) equivalent to a university degree, with a minimum duration of three years if their qualification corresponds to a level in the International Standard Classification of Education (ISCED 2011) or at least level 6 of the European Qualifications Framework. This now also includes, for example, business administrators, master crafts persons , technical/industrial, agricultural or artistic professions, nursery school teachers and curative education therapists . The training programmes must be comparable to a corresponding German training programme, so an examination is usually still required.  If you are unsure whether you meet the requirements, check out the section “Where can I seek counselling and support?” below.

Skilled workers who work in shortage occupations ("Mangelberufe") and recent graduates who obtained their university degree within the past three years can obtain a Blue Card EU with the approval of the Federal Employment Agency if they meet the salary requirement of at least  € 41.041,80 ( As of Januar y 2024) or  % 45.3 of the annual contribution ceiling in the general pension insurance .

University graduates who have obtained their university degree within the last three years can receive an EU Blue Card with the approval of the Federal Employment Agency if they earn a minimum income of at least % 45.3 of the annual contribution ceiling for general pension insurance , i.e. € 41,041.80 (as of January 2024).

• Special regulation for IT professionals: In certain IT jobs , even if an applicant does not have academic degrees, the Blue Card EU can still be granted with the approval of the Federal Employment Agency if the salary is at least € 41.041,80 , that is, % 45.3 of the annual contribution ceiling in the general pension insurance and the applicant can prove they have achieved certain skills, knowledge, and abilities through at least 3 years of professional experience during the past 7 years .

Important: Make sure that your future job is "qualification-appropriate“, i.e., the job must be related to the qualification you obtained during your time in a university (also University of Applied Sciences) or tertiary education. In other words, the job can not be something for which   vocational training ( within the meaning of § 18b Residence Act) suffices .

Please note : When the new law is enforced, the job offer based on which you apply for an EU Blue Card must provide for a minimum employment duration of six months.

Important: In the  shortage occupations  (“ Mangelberufen “ or   “ Engpassberufen ” ) , the Federal Employment Agency has to approve the recruitment.  This is to ensure that foreign workers are not employed under worse working conditions than German workers, that the job is appropriate to their qualifications and that the individual is actually employed inside Germany. You can find out more by checking this detailed list of shortage occupations in Germany .

Please note that for some professions, such as doctors, lawyers, etc., it is necessary to have a separate professional licence and to prove the equivalence of the qualification. You can learn more in our chapter " Recognition of Qualifications ".

To shorten the approval procedure, your future employer can apply for approval before you enter Germany at the   Central International and Specialist Placement Service (ZAV) .  

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In principle, the Immigration Office is in charge of issuing EU Blue Cards.

If you have a residence permit in Germany, you should contact the Immigration Office responsible to obtain an EU Blue Card.

If you have been holding an EU Blue Card from another EU Member State for at least 18 months, you can enter Germany for the purpose of employment without an employment visa; but you must then apply at the relevant Immigration Office within one month of entering the country for the issuance of an EU Blue Card in Germany. You are not allowed to work until you receive approval from the Immigration Office.

If you are a third-country national who lives neither in Germany nor in another EU Member state, you usually need to obtain a visa "for the purpose of gainful employment" from the German embassy in your country of residence first. After entering Germany (and before the expiry of the visa), you can apply for an EU Blue Card at the competent Immigration Office.

• If you are already in Germany, e.g. with a Schengen visa ( Visitor Visa ), and find a job during your short stay that fulfils the requirements for the EU Blue Card, you can try to apply for the EU Blue Card at the I mmigration Office (see § 39 sentence 1 no. 3 R esidence  O rdinance & § 4 Residence Act ).  But beware: There is no guarantee. Even if you fulfil all the requirements, the I mmigration Office may insist that you go through the visa procedure for the EU Blue Card. T hat means you would have to return to your country of origin and apply for a visa at the German diplomatic mission there. It is best to seek advice from a lawyer beforehand.

You can find the Immigration Office responsible for you at bamf-navi.bamf.de .

If you need an entry visa to come to Germany, the first step is to apply for a visa at the German embassy/consulate in your home country or (in case the German embassy in your country is closed) a neighbouring country and present the required documents. To learn more about the visa application procedure, visit our chapter “ Visa for Skilled Workers ”.

Please note : Your visa application can take several months to process.  However, if you would like to immigrate to Germany as a skilled worker, you may be able to obtain a visa more quickly (in accordance with Section 81a Residence Act). To do so, your future employer in Germany must apply for a so-called "accelerated visa procedure" (“ beschleunigtes Visumverfahren ”) at the Immigration Office.

Keep in mind : Whether you need a visa depends on your country of origin. On Auswaertiges-amt.de , you will find a list of countries whose citizens need an entry visa for Germany.

Important : Citizens of Japan, Canada, Australia, Great Britain, Northern Ireland, the USA, South Korea, Israel and New Zealand may enter Germany without a visa . However, they must apply for a work permit after entering the country.

In our chapter " Visa for Skilled Workers ", you will find a list of documents that all third-country nationals need for a skilled worker’s visa. Depending on where you come from, you might be asked for more documents– it is best to check with the German embassy/consulate in your country.

When applying for an EU Blue Card at the Immigration Office later, you also need the following documents:

a recognised university degree and

an employment contract or a binding job offer in Germany with an annual gross salary within specific limits (Your employer will need to provide you with a signed “Declaration of Employment” )

Please note : You need to have any academic degrees you have obtained abroad recognised in Germany. To learn how, visit our chapter “ Recognition of certificates ”.

After entering the country, you need to register your address . Then, you must report to the Immigration Office at your new place of residence within three months and apply for an EU Blue card. To do so, you must submit the documents mentioned above (again), as well as, in principle, a police registration certificate and a rental agreement. The authorities will check your papers to make sure you meet the requirements mentioned above. If you do, you will be legally entitled to an EU Blue Card.

The EU Blue Card is usually issued for four years. If your employment contract has a shorter duration, your residence  title will  be issued for the duration of the employment contract plus three months. In principle, an extension will be possible with a new work contract.

Yes, you can change your job. Before the new EU Blue Card regulations w ere introduced on November 18, 2023, the responsible Immigration Office ( “ Ausländerbehörde ” ) had to approve the change if you decided to switch jobs within the first 2 years of holding an EU Blue Card . But now, you do not need permission from the immigration authorities to change jobs.

Although y ou do not require permission from the Immigration Office to change jobs , you must inform them if you switch jobs within the first twelve months of your employment .

During this period, the Immigration Office has 30 days to suspend the employment and reject the job change if the new job does not meet the requirements for holding an EU Blue Card.

This can also protect you , as a non-German workforce, from being employed under worse working conditions than German employees.

Please note: If you change your job within the first 12 months after starting employment, the Immigration Office can reject the job switch for 30 days , which means you may not start the new job for 30 days (even if the work has already started). The Immigration Office always checks whether the job fulfils the requirements for the issue of an EU Blue Card.

Important : You must inform the Immigration Office if you change jobs. If you do not do so in good time and the new job does not fulfil the requirements for the EU Blue Card, the Immigration Office can revoke the EU Blue Card and your family members (Section 52 (2b) Residence Act ).

Family reunification is easier for holders of an EU Blue. For instance, with a Blue Card, your spouse does not need to present a German language certificate for family reunification .

If you apply for an EU Blue Card together with your application for family reunification, the applications will be processed at the same time. After entering the country, your family members must also apply for a residence permit in Germany at the I mmigration O ffice. They do not have to prove that the flat is large enough or that they have enough money to live on.  Furthermore, they will be allowed to work immediately after they come here. 

Important : Your family members who move to Germany with you must not receive any social benefits from the state (according to SGB 2 or SGB 12).

Having an EU Blue Card also enables you to obtain a permanent residence permit after only 33 months of residence in Germany,  given you work, make contributions to a pension insurance scheme and can prove you have a basic knowledge of the German language (A1 certificate)– in case you have a B1 certificate, you can apply for a permanent residence permit after only 21 months of residence. 

The new EU Blue Card regulations (since Nov. 18, 2023) allow you more mobility:

Holders of a Blue Card EU issued by another EU member state will be able to work in Germany for 90 days within a 180-day period without requiring a residence permit or work permit if their work is directly related to the job contract based on which they obtained their Blue Card. Additional documentation may be required if your EU Blue Card is issued in a non-Schengen EU member state.

Holders of a Blue Card EU issued in another EU member state who have been residing there for at least twelve months with a Blue Card EU will be able to move to Germany for work. However, in principle, they must also meet the requirements for granting an EU Blue Card in Germany, except for some specific cases.

You can visit our community platform Together in Germany if you have questions regarding the EU Blue Card. For more detailed information on the recognition process, visit www.anerkennung-in-deutschland.de . Furthermore, the hotline “Working and Living in Germany” , which is established by the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees, can provide you with support and answer your questions in English and German on the phone and via email.

As of now, h olders of the EU Blue Card can receive a permanent residence permit (“ Niederlassungserlaubnis ”) after 33 months . From 1 March 2024, this period will be reduced to 27 months, and if you can provide proof of language proficiency at level B1, even up to 21 months. You can learn more in our chapter " Permanent Residence Permit ".

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Additional Links

Learn more about the EU Blue Card on Make-it-in-Germany's website, and call the hotline "Working & Living in Germany" if you have questions (also in English).

Find the German embassy or consulate in your country on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Find out what the prerequisites are for obtaining a visa for Germany. 

Gefördert durch:

‘EU Blue Card’

What is the eu blue card, requirements for applicants, for how long is an eu blue card issued, miscellaneous, when can eu blue card holders obtain a permanent residence permit, persons authorised to apply.

• Persons with a German university degree or
• Persons with a foreign university degree that is comparable to a German university degree or
• Graduates who have obtained their university degree no more than three years before submitting their application or
• Professionals who have completed a tertiary education programme that is equivalent to a university degree, requires at least three years of training and is assigned to at least level 6 of the International Standard Classification of Education (ISCED 2011) or level 6 of the European Qualifications Framework in Germany or
• IT specialists without a university degree who have acquired at least three years of comparable professional experience in the last seven years
• Land use, urban and traffic planners
• Engineers and engineering scientists
• Academic specialists in information and communication technology
• Production managers in manufacturing, mining, construction and logistics
• Academic and comparable nursing and midwifery professionals
• Teachers and educators in the school and extracurricular sector

Approval of the Federal Employment Agency 

• The applicants have a foreign or German university degree AND employment is sought in a shortage occupation AND the gross salary is less than EUR 45,300 (gross)/ EUR 3,775 per month
• The requirement for approval also applies to academics (degree obtained 3 years prior to application) if they earn less than EUR 45,300 / EUR 3,775 per month
• IT specialists without academic degree

Licence to practice a particular profession

Where to apply for an eu blue card.

• Holders of a national visa or a residence permit authorising long-term residence; this includes cases of so-called change of purpose of residence (e.g. after successfully completing a university degree, change from a residence permit for studies to employment with an EU Blue Card)
• Citizens of the privileged states: Australia, Israel, Japan, Canada, the Republic of Korea, New Zealand, USA, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
• Third-country nationals who have held an EU Blue Card issued by another member state of the European Union for at least twelve months and who are applying for an EU Blue Card for the purpose of highly qualified employment
• Third-country nationals who have held an EU Blue Card issued by another Member State of the European Union for at least six months and were previously in possession of an EU Blue Card issued by another Member State

Are holders of an EU Blue Card allowed to change jobs?

Disclosure requirement for holders of an eu blue card and companies.

• the holder of the EU Blue Card continues to be employed in work appropriate to his/her qualifications, AND 
• for the period of no less than 27 months, compulsory or voluntary contributions were made to the statutory pension insurance scheme. Alternatively, the holder can demonstrate that payment has been made which entitles the holder to comparable benefits from an insurance or pension institution or an insurance company. 

• Visa for research

Would you like to join the dynamic world of research in Germany? Then a visa for research is probably exactly what you need.

• Visa & residence
• Types of visa
• Other types of visa
• Special regulation for assistants in nursing
• Visa for self-employment
• Visa for language acquisition
• Visa for a study-related internship EU
• Special regulations for professional drivers
• Special regulations for artists
• Special regulations for language teachers
• Professional athletes and coaches
• Special regulations for esports professionals

Are you looking to work in Germany as a researcher? If so, you will need to apply for a visa for research in accordance with Section 18d on the Residence Act - AufenthG . To find out whether you require a visa to enter Germany, see Who needs a visa?

What are the requirements to receive a visa for research?

• You have concluded a hosting agreement or a work contract with a research institute in Germany.
• The research institute commits itself in writing to cover your living and travel costs back to your country of origin, which otherwise have to be covered by public funds. This commitment applies for up to 6 months after the research position has ended. This clause is not applicable if your research position is primarily funded by public funds. 

Do you meet these requirements? Learn about the procedure for the entry and visa process .

You are considered a “researcher” if you have at least a PhD/doctorate or a suitable university degree enabling you to access PhD degree programmes ( Article 3 of Directive (EU) 2016/801 ).

Are you a highly qualified professional in the fields of science or research? Do you not fulfil the requirements for a research visa in accordance with Section 18d of the Residence Act (AufenthG) ? If so, the EU Blue Card  could be an alternative for you.

What opportunities does the visa for research offer?

The visa or residence permit for research is issued for at least one year and gives you many advantages:

• With this residence permit, you can work at the research institute listed in your work contract or you can take on a teaching position.
• It is possible to extend your residence permit provided you fulfil the same requirements.
• You can conduct research and teach for a limited period of time in other EU states (with the exception of the United Kingdom, Ireland and Denmark).
• After four years, you can receive a settlement permit  in Germany. You must, however, meet the requirements for a settlement permit .

Once your research position has ended, you have up to nine months to find another position in Germany that is in line with your qualifications. You must then apply for a residence permit for job seekers in accordance with Section 20 (3) no. 2 of the Residence Act (AufenthG) at your nearest foreigners authority .

Doctoral students from third countries can obtain a residence permit for research. As a requirement, they must complete their doctoral thesis as part of a work contract with a research facility in Germany. If the research position is a component of the PhD program as a full-time program, only a  visa for studying  can be issued.

Mobility arrangements for international researchers

International researchers from non-EU member states who are legally residing in EU Member States may perform part of their research in Germany. In such cases, there are two options that allow you to stay in Germany:

• A residence permit for short-term research stays is not required: if you already hold a residence title from another EU Member State for the purpose of research, and you would like to stay in Germany for a maximum of 180 days within 360 days as part of a research project, you do not need to apply for a German visa or residence permit. The only requirement to fulfil is that the research institute in Germany for which you will be conducting research must inform the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) about the planned research. Go to the website of the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) to find out what your research institute needs to inform the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees about, in addition to the procedure for doing so.
• You must hold a valid residence title of another EU Member State for research purposes. This permit must be valid for the duration of your planned stay in Germany for research purposes.
• You must submit a copy of a valid passport or travel document issued in lieu of a passport.
• You have a concluded a hosting agreement or a contract with a research facility in Germany. 

You must apply for the residence permit at your local foreigners authority at least 30 days prior to starting your stay in Germany. The application can also be submitted to the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF).

Further information on career opportunities for international scientists and researchers can be obtained in the " Research " section.

At a glance: Visa for research

From the preparations to the application forms: This step-by-step guide shows you how to get a visa for research.

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Getting a visa, or learning German? Contact points all over the world

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Information on the web

• Federal Foreign Office (FFO) You can find out which visa you need in order to come to Germany with the Visa-Navigator.
• Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) Centre of Excellence for Asylum, Migration and Integration in Germany

Do you have any questions?

Let us advise you on your opportunities to work and live in Germany. Our experts will support you with questions regarding job search, visa, recognition and learning German. 

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Hosting agreement

German: Aufnahmevereinbarung

A hosting agreement is concluded between a recognised research institution and an international researcher. It serves as the basis for granting a residence title for research purposes.

Residence permit

German: Aufenthaltserlaubnis

The Immigration Act provides for two titles which govern entry and residence in Germany: the settlement permit (Niederlassungserlaubnis) and the residence permit (Aufenthaltserlaubnis). The residence permit is temporary and is granted for a specific reason, such as gainful employment, training or family reunification, or else for humanitarian, legal or political reasons. 

Theme: Visas

Settlement permit

German: Niederlassungserlaubnis

The settlement permit has permanent validity and entitles holders to exercise gainful employment. People applying for a settlement permit have to satisfy specific requirements which are laid down in the Residence Act.

Theme: Working , Visas

Residence title

German: Aufenthaltstitel

A residence title entitles people from abroad to enter and reside in Germany. Residence titels may be granted in the form of a visa, residence permit, an EU Blue Card, a settlement permit, or a permanent EU residence permit. 

Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF)

German: Bundesamt für Migration und Flüchtlinge (BAMF)

The Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) is the Centre of Excellence for asylum, migration and integration in Germany. It has a highly varied remit today.

Theme: Institutions & Authorities

Blue card Germany

• Moving to Germany
• July 21, 2023
• Louisa Anger

If you’re a highly qualified foreign worker seeking opportunities in Germany and other EU countries, the EU Blue Card might be your ticket to a successful career and even permanent residency.

Here is an overview:

• Familiarize yourself with the benefits and requirements of the EU Blue Card. This visa allows you to work and live in Germany.
• To be eligible for the EU Blue Card, you must possess a university degree or equivalent qualification. This serves as written proof of your educational background and expertise.
• Obtain a job offer from an employer in Germany. The position must be in a highly qualified profession and offer a competitive salary, meeting the minimum income threshold set by the respective country.
• Collect the necessary documents for your application, including your university degree certificate, a valid passport, a job contract or binding job offer, proof of health insurance, and any other supporting documents specified by the relevant authorities.
• Submit your completed application along with the required documents to the designated immigration authorities in Germany.
• Once your application is submitted, follow the instructions provided by the immigration authorities. They will review your application, conduct any necessary background checks, and make a decision on your EU Blue Card application.

Alternatively, you can come to Germany on a tourist/ other kind of visa. Then apply for the EU Blue Card whilst you’re in Germany.

Advantages of a blue card visa Germany

The EU Blue Card offers numerous advantages for foreign workers looking to live and work in Germany. Here are some key benefits to consider:

Duration and Extension of the blue card

The EU Blue Card is initially issued for the duration of your work contract, plus an additional three months. It provides a four-year period of validity. If certain requirements are met, you have the option to extend the validity of the EU Blue Card beyond the initial four years.

Settlement Permit

After holding the EU Blue Card for 33 months, you may be eligible to obtain a settlement permit, granting you long-term residency in Germany. In some cases, a settlement permit can be issued even earlier, after 21 months. To qualify, you must demonstrate language proficiency at a minimum level of B1 according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

Family Reunification

If you wish to live in Germany with your family, the EU Blue Card allows you to do so. However, it is important to meet the corresponding requirements and regulations. Additional information on family life in Germany can be found in the dedicated section.

The EU Blue Card opens up exciting opportunities for skilled professionals seeking to establish a career and a fulfilling life in Germany. It is essential to familiarize yourself with the specific requirements and guidelines associated with the EU Blue Card to make the most of this advantageous visa option.

Blue card requirements Germany 2023

To be eligible for an EU Blue Card, you must meet the following requirements:

• Education Qualifications: You should hold a German degree, a recognized foreign higher education degree, or a foreign higher education degree that is comparable to a German degree. Information on the equivalence and recognition of foreign higher education degrees can be obtained from the Recognition section.
• Job Offer: You must have a concrete job offer from a company in Germany. The position should be suitable for someone with your qualifications, typically requiring a higher education degree.
• Minimum Income Threshold: The remuneration for the position in Germany must meet certain minimum income thresholds. For most professions, the gross annual income should be at least €58,400 (as of 2023). However, for occupations in mathematics, IT, natural sciences, engineering, and human medicine, a gross annual salary of at least €45,552 (as of 2023) is required. If your salary falls within this category, you will also need approval from the Federal Employment Agency (BA) for your employment request.

Meeting these requirements will help you qualify for the EU Blue Card, allowing you to work and reside in Germany while enjoying the benefits and opportunities it offers.

6 Steps how to Get an EU blue card

Getting an EU Blue Card involves several steps and requirements. Here is a general overview of the process:

#1 Obtain health insurance in Germany

Having proof of health insurance is a requirement for your EU Blue Card application. While private health insurance is a suitable option during the application process, you will eventually need to switch to public health insurance once you have the EU Blue Card and begin working in Germany.

To obtain health insurance proof for your application, I recommend considering CareConcept . They offer specialized insurance plans for foreigners applying for a German visa, making it easier for you to meet the health insurance requirement for your EU Blue Card application. It’s important to explore different insurance providers and compare their offerings to ensure you choose the best option for your needs.

Remember, once you have obtained the EU Blue Card and secured employment, it is advisable to review your health insurance options and switch to a suitable public health insurance provider that meets your long-term needs in Germany.

#2 Schedule an Appointment

Are you already in Germany? If so, you can conveniently apply for an EU Blue Card in the country. To begin the process, it’s important to schedule an appointment at the Foreigners Registration Office (Ausländerbehörde), which can typically be done online.

To find the contact information for your local Foreigners Registration Office, simply search “Ausländerbehörde + City” on Google. The office’s website should provide information in English, and you can usually make an appointment online in most cities.

If you require your visa urgently, you can also visit one of the office locations without an appointment. However, be prepared for a potentially lengthy wait.

For those applying for a freelance visa in Berlin, you can make an appointment at the Berliner Registration Office for an EU Blue Card through their online portal.

Not currently in Germany? Not a problem! Many foreigners apply for an EU Blue Card at the German embassy in their home country. In this case, you will need to gather all the necessary documents and then schedule an appointment at the German embassy.

#3 Gather all the Required Documents for the EU Blue Card

After completing the initial steps and scheduling an appointment, it’s crucial to gather all the necessary documents for your EU Blue Card application.

Documents for obtaining the EU Blue Card in Germany:

• Proof of non-EU citizenship
• Evidence of a German or recognized higher education qualification (Bachelor’s/Master’s degree, etc.)
• A binding work contract or a job offer from a German company
• Written confirmation from the employer stating that the job offers an annual minimum gross salary of at least EUR 49,600 (approximately 4,133 Euros per month). Note: Lower salary limits apply to certain professions, such as scientists, mathematicians, engineers, doctors, and IT specialists. Your future employer should provide you with this proof.
• “Application for a Visa or Residence Permit” form, which can be downloaded online.

Documents for obtaining a permanent settlement permit:

• If your work contract is for less than four years, your residence permit will be valid for that duration plus an additional three months.
• Holders of an EU Blue Card can be eligible for a permanent settlement permit if they have been employed in a highly qualified position for 33 months, can provide evidence of paying compulsory contributions or other proof of comparable insurance benefits, and meet the other general conditions for obtaining a settlement permit.
• If you can demonstrate good German language skills at level B1, the settlement permit can be granted after 21 months.

For your application in Germany, you will need the following documents:

• Valid passport
• One recent biometric photo (35mm x 45mm)
• Original and copy of your university or university college qualification, along with an evaluation
• Original and copy of your employment contract or job offer
• “Antrag auf Erteilung eines Aufenthaltstitels” form (Application for Issuance of a Residence Permit) – only required for first-time application
• “Antrag auf Erlaubnis einer Beschäftigung” form (completed) – only required if approval is necessary from the German Federal Employment Agency (Bundesagentur für Arbeit)
• “Stellenbeschreibung” form (filled in by the employer) – only required if approval is necessary from the German Federal Employment Agency (Bundesagentur für Arbeit)
• Occupation practice permit – only if required (see ‘Prerequisites’)
• Health insurance proof (refer to the previous section on obtaining health insurance)

Ensure that you have all the necessary documents ready before your appointment to streamline the application process.

#4 Attend the Appointment and Pay the Fee

When going to the Foreigner’s Office (Ausländerbehörde) in Germany for your EU Blue Card application, it’s important to be well-prepared and bring some food and drinks with you. Even with an appointment, the waiting time can be unpredictable.

Ensure that you have all the necessary documents ready and have thoroughly informed yourself about the EU Blue Card requirements in Germany. It’s beneficial to have some knowledge of the German language, even if it’s just basic proficiency. Speaking German can increase your chances of obtaining a German visa, as officials are more likely to approve applications from individuals with some language skills.

If you have never lived or worked in Germany before, not speaking German is not a problem. However, having some knowledge of the language can be helpful. If possible, consider bringing a friend who is fluent in German to accompany you.

Personally, I recommend seeking professional assistance with your visa application. While it involves a financial commitment, it is well worth it. Professional services can help ensure that your paperwork is in order and even accompany you to the visa interview, significantly increasing your chances of a successful EU Blue Card application.

Remember, it’s essential to strive for accuracy and completeness during the application process. Taking the time to get everything right from the start will save you potential delays or issues later on.

#5 Patience is Key

The waiting period can often be the most challenging part of the visa application process. After submitting your EU Blue Card application, you will usually receive an indication from the immigration officer regarding the likelihood of approval. Additionally, they will inform you of the expected waiting time.

During this period, it’s important to remain patient and hopeful. However, if your application is not successful, don’t be disheartened. You always have the option to try again. It’s worth noting that each unsuccessful application may slightly diminish your chances of obtaining a German visa, as it is an unwritten rule that multiple rejections can impact future applications.

Stay positive and explore any feedback or guidance provided by the immigration officer to improve your chances in future attempts. Remember, persistence and determination can ultimately lead to a successful outcome.

#6 Embrace the News and Take Action

Congratulations! If you have received your EU Blue Card, it’s time to celebrate your achievement. You are now one step closer to pursuing your career goals in Germany.

As you embark on this new chapter, it’s essential to leverage the professional opportunities available to you. Many professionals in Germany utilize platforms like Xing and LinkedIn to expand their professional network and connect with like-minded individuals. Creating a profile on these platforms can provide you with valuable networking opportunities and help you establish a presence within the German job market.

Take the time to optimize your profiles, showcasing your skills, qualifications, and experiences. Connect with colleagues, industry professionals, and potential employers to expand your network. Engage in meaningful conversations, participate in relevant groups, and stay updated on industry trends and job opportunities.

Remember, your EU Blue Card is not just a visa but a gateway to a world of professional possibilities. Embrace the news of your success and take proactive steps to build your career in Germany. Good luck on this exciting journey!

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Expat Info Articles

EU Blue Card 2023: How expats can benefit from Germany's new skilled migration law

The German parliament (Bundestag) has passed a law overhauling and simplifying the EU Blue Card requirements. Schahroch Taleqani, a partner at RT & Partner , a law firm specialising in immigration, gives an overview of the EU Blue Card’s current and new legal framework, and explains how expats can make the most of the upcoming changes.

On August 16, Frank-Walter Steinmeier, the German president, signed the new skilled immigration law ( Fachkräfteeinwanderungsgesetz ), the first major part of which will come into force on November 18, 2023. The new law will have a profound impact on highly skilled expats looking to apply for an EU Blue Card.

What is the EU Blue Card?

The EU Blue Card is a popular option among academically qualified expats looking to work in Germany. And for good reason: it grants access to the German job market with the same rights and protections that German citizens enjoy. It enables recipients to bring their close family with them and opens up the possibility of obtaining a permanent residency title.

However, at the moment, expats wanting to apply for a Blue Card must, among other requirements, meet relatively high salary thresholds and hold an officially recognised university degree. The new law sets out to lower these eligibility criteria, thus making the EU Blue Card an even more attractive option for highly skilled workers.

What changes will the new law bring?

The new skilled worker law will bring a number of significant changes:

Lower salary limits for EU Blue Cards

Chief among the upcoming changes is a decrease in salary thresholds. For the remainder of 2023, the gross annual salary required for an EU Blue Card will be lowered from 58.400 euros to 43.800 euros. 

For applicants with certain occupations which are especially sought-after (so-called “ Mangelberufe ”), an even lower gross annual salary of just 39.682,80 euros (down from around 43.800 euros) will be sufficient. 

Expanded list of high demand professions

Also, the new law lists more jobs as being in such especially high demand - including veterinarians, teachers and academically trained executives in logistics, child care or elderly care. These occupations have been added to those like IT specialists, architects and engineers who already benefit from the lower Mangelberufe threshold. 

Lower salary limit for career starters

Additionally, the lower threshold will also apply to young professionals who graduated less than three years ago.

Waiver of connection between academic qualifications and employment

Another highly important change is the decoupling of the pursued field of work from applicants’ academic degrees. Currently, EU Blue Card applicants are only allowed to work in jobs for which their degree qualifies them for. The new law does away with this restriction and opens up the whole job market to Blue Card applicants.

IT specialists can also look forward to the new law. Specifically, for them, the Blue Card’s need for an academic degree will be abolished. Instead, IT professionals who can prove three years of work experience and theoretical knowledge on a level comparable to that of academics will be able to acquire a Blue Card without a degree.

New opportunities for expats coming to Germany

When it comes into force on November 18, this new law will have a tremendous impact on expats. The reduced salary thresholds and simplified rules for IT specialists will make it easier to benefit from the many advantages the EU Blue Card has to offer. Additionally, expats who already hold a residence permit for academia will not have to have their degree checked for compatibility when applying for an EU Blue Card.

The new law also makes it easier for expats to manoeuvre Germany’s job market. It abolishes the general need for EU Blue Card holders to request the immigration authority’s approval when changing employers within the first two years of their stay. 

Instead, in the future, EU Blue Card holders will only have to report all relevant changes occurring during their first year of holding the title. Authorities will only be able to halt changes of employer within this first year. If they do so, they then have 30 days to examine whether the new job fulfils all Blue Card criteria. If it does or if they fail to reach a decision within 30 days, the change of employer will go through.

The usual challenges of German bureaucracy can make applying for an EU Blue Card quite complicated. If both you and your future employer want certainty and peace of mind, it is advisable to seek assistance from a law firm specialising in business immigration like RT & Partner. They will provide individual counselling, examine your documents, handle the entire correspondence with the relevant authorities, and, if possible, apply for the accelerated procedure on behalf of you and your employer, enabling you to receive your EU Blue Card as fast as possible. Get in touch with RT & Partner’s lawyers today !

Schahroch Taleqani

Schahroch Taleqani co-founded the law firm RT and Partner Rechtsanwaltsgesellschaft mbH where he currently serves as a managing partner. With his extensive legal knowledge and experience, he provides outstanding support...

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RohitSharma2 14:40 | 24 November 2023

Hello, Is the new law applies to current BlueCard holders as well? I have completed my 16 months in Germany on EU Bluecard. Can I also switch my job or this law applies to future Bluecard holders only?

The EU Blue Card – an opportunity for academic professionals from abroad

As a university graduate from a non-EU country, the Blue Card makes it easier for you to enter the labour market within the EU. Find out here what you should know about the EU Blue Card and how to apply for it in Germany!  

Table of content

What is the EU Blue Card?

Who can apply for the eu blue card and what are the requirements, where and for how long is the eu blue card valid, how much does the eu blue card cost, does the eu blue card enable family reunification, how do i apply for the eu blue card for germany, what happens if i lose my job, when can i apply for a permanent residence permit in germany.

Related Pages

• Job Seeker Visa
• Visa and Work Permit for Germany

The EU Blue Card is a residence permit for academics and professionals who move to the European Union from non-EU countries in order to work here. It is therefore a proof of legal residence in an EU country.   

Any university graduate from a non-EU country can apply for the Blue Card. Usually, proof of German language skills is not required. Members of regulated professions such as doctors or pharmacists are exempt from this . In order to practise these professions, a so-called approbation or licen s e to practi c e is required, for which proof of German language skills must be provided. Approbation ensures that the foreign university degree is comparable with the German degree.  

What are the requirements for the EU Blue Card?

There are four requirements that you must fulfil in order to qualify for an EU Blue Card.  

1. Recognised completion of a higher education degree

The first requirement is the completion of a higher education degree. This must either have already been completed in the desired EU member state, be recognised there or be comparable to a university degree there.   

Tip: In the “ anabin ” database, you can check whether your university degree is comparable with the corresponding German degree.  

2. Employment contract or binding promise of a job

The second requirement is the existence of an employment contract or a binding promise of employment with an employer in the desired EU member state. It is not possible to apply for an EU Blue Card for job search purposes.  

3. Minimum gross annual salary

The third requirement stipulates a gross annual salary of at least 56,800 euros (2022) . However, for some occupational fields a lower salary has been set. These include mathematics, engineering, human medicine, natural sciences and computer science. For university graduates seeking employment in these professions, the annual gross salary must be at least 44,304 euros (2022).  

The minimum annual gross salaries are adjusted every year. The figures mentioned here apply specifically to Germany. They may differ in individual EU member states. Please inform yourself about the minimum gross salaries applicable in your desired EU country before applying.  

4. Type of job

The fourth and final requirement for applying for the Blue Card stipulates that the job in an EU country must correspond to the qualifications of the applicant. In other words, your university degree must be directly related to the desired occupational field.  

The EU Blue Card can be applied for in almost all member states of the European Union. The only two exceptions are Denmark and Ireland. These countries do not issue this residence permit.  

When an EU Blue Card is issued for the first t i me, it is valid for a maximum of four years. If the employment contract is limited to less than four years, the Blue Card is issued for exactly this duration plus three additional months. After the residence permit expires, it can be renewed.  

The cost of an EU Blue Card is 100 euros , regardless of the period of validity. If an existing   Blue Card is to be extended, an extension of up to three months is charged at 96 euros and an extension of more than three months at 93 euros .  

For holders of the EU Blue Card, family reunification is made much easier . Spouses and minor children are entitled to a residence permit. In addition, spouses will receive immediate permission to work. This applies regardless of their German language skills, as long as both spouses are at least 18 years old. The application for a visa and work permit must be submitted by the spouse in person .  

There are two ways to obtain an EU Blue Card for Germany. If you are already in Germany with another residence title, you can apply for the Blue Card at the foreigner’s authority responsible for you.  

In the case that, you are currently still in another EU country, you must first apply for a visa to work in Germany . You can apply for this visa for the purpose of gainful employment in Germany at any German representation abroad. Citizens of the following countries are excluded from this visa requirement: New Zealand, Australia, Israel, Canada, Japan, Republic of Korea, and the United States of America.   

After entering Germany, you apply for the Blue Card at the foreigner’s authority responsible for you.

Do I need a visa for the purpose of gainful employment to apply for the EU Blue Card in Germany?

Since it can take several weeks before the EU Blue Card is issued, it is recommended that you apply for a visa for the purpose of gainful employment even if you have the opportunity to enter Germany without a visa.  

It is strongly advised not to enter Germany with only a tourist visa in order to apply for the Blue Card. In most cases, it is not possible to change to another residence title. In the worst case, you will have to leave the country and re-enter it.  

If you lose the job for which the Blue Card was issued, you must immediately inform the responsible foreigner’s authority as the holder of a n EU Blue Card. The residence title will then remain valid for the time being and can also be used to look for a new job. However, the foreigner’s authority can determine a time limit for the residence permit at its own discretion.  

If you have a Blue Card, you can apply for a so-called permanent residence permit after 33 months. With this permit, unlimited residence in Germany is possible. A prerequisite for this, is that the employment contract has lasted for 33 months without interruption and that contributions to the pension plan have been made during this time.  

In addition, there are some general requirements that must be met in order to apply for a permanent residence permit. One example is proof of basic German language skills (level A1). If, as a holder of the Blue Card, you can prove that you have sufficient German language skills at level B1, you can apply for a permanent residence permit even after just 21 months.  

Even if applying for the EU Blue Card takes some time and effort, it is definitely worth it . So, if you live abroad and have the dream of living and working in the EU after graduation, get started now! We look forward to supporting you on your way!  

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Last update: September 1, 2023

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How can I remain in Germany after my doctoral studies as an eligible worker?

Being a foreign doctoral postgraduate from a German university , there is a common thing if your interest is to remain in the country to jump into a qualification-related job. There is no oddity there as Germany rests as a world-attraction to work and live in, not only to you, but to many more professionals, as of its extensive advantageous job opportunities and high quality of life. Well, that is why Germany is considered the biggest and the most prosperous nation amongst other EU countries.

Remaining in Germany after finishing your doctoral studies , you can largely benefit from a wide-ranging job opportunities, as the quality of your doctoral degree received makes you a competitive candidate for working in a university, non-university research institution or industry. What is more, your chances to have a profitable employment in the global labor market, as a postgraduate doctoral candidate from a German university are incalculable, being aware of the global high reputation of Germany in the world as regards of education in research and innovation.

On the other hand, as an alternative option for you to remain in Germany, is to advance your research activity with a postdoctoral research, something that attracts many other foreigners who finish their doctoral studies in Germany.

Legitimacy of postdoctoral work as a foreigner

There are decent academic and research opportunities for the qualified workers to get a place in the German labor market. As you are already in Germany after finishing your doctoral studies and willing to remain there to get hired at a job matching your education, then make sure you do not forget that Germany welcomes highly qualified worker as you. On the other hand, if you were lucky enough to already have a signed sound work contract related to your qualification then, enjoy your time, because you are on the right way to get the proper eligibility for staying and working there.

Well, you should not be worried anymore! You are allowed to work in Germany as a postgraduate candidate from doctoral studies. You made the right choice having a doctorate in Germany! Congrats and enjoy the new waves of opportunities in your career!

Residence and work permit

Either you have in hand a job offer or not, if you want to remain in Germany after your doctoral studies, you surely will need the proper permit to do so. Involving in an economic activity such as getting a job lacking the proper entitlement – the residence and work permit, you will immediately be deported in the country of origin and against your employer sanctions and other penalty measures will apply.

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If you have signed a work contract while in Germany

If you have there just signed the contract of employment or have a realistic business plan yourself, then surely there are good chances for you to apply and get the proper entitlement to stay and involve into the economic activity of Germany.

Residence and work permit as a researcher

As a highly qualified person, as a researcher – according to the Residence Act, Section 19, you can require a residence and work permit without the consent of the German Federal Employment Agency.

To get the residence and work permit as a researcher, you must:

• Prove having a sound employment contract (i.e. Researcher, academic position, etc.) – with no minimum incomes required,
• Have a secured livelihood.

There is a possibility to change this permit into a permanent residence title.

The EU Blue Card permit as a highly qualified worker

Another option for you is to get the EU Blue Card – also a special residence and work permit for foreign qualified workers.

To get the EU Blue Card you must apply to the following documents:

• The doctoral degree you received in Germany,
• The sound work contract or offer related to your qualification with a minimum salary of 48.800 EUR.

Benefits of EU Blue Card:

• There is a possibility to be changed into a settlement permit after 33 months of highly-qualified employment record and prove a German language proficiency of level B1,
• If the language proficiency can be proved earlier, the settlement permit can be issued after only 21 months of such record.

For more information please click: How to get EU Blue Card for Germany?

Residence and work permit as self –employed research

If your alternative way to involve into the economic activity of the Germany is pumping into your own research-related business, then this is also another optional opportunity to get the residence and work permit.

To get the residence and work permit in such case you must prove:

• Having a doctoral degree received in Germany,
• There is a need for this specific economic activity in Germany,
• Financial coverage for the business plan related to the research activity.
• It is given for a maximum three years,
• After three years of a proven successful activity, secured livelihood you can get a settlement permit.  

If you want to seek for a job while in Germany

There is also a possibility for you to not immediately return after your graduation, but seek for a job for a certain period. For that, you will need to apply for the temporary residence permit. The time you can receive in your disposition from the residence permit for the purpose of job-seeking is up to 12 months after graduation. This residence permit allows you to work during this period in a job that needs no special qualification, in order to cover your living costs during the job-seeking period.

Once you get a gainful employment contract related to your qualification, you must immediately apply for one of the aforementioned residence and work entitlements. There is absolutely no chance for you to get involved in the economic activity of the country without the proper entitlement.

Employment and research prospect

Being a doctoral graduate, is a passport giving you better chances of employment within the German labor market. There are lots of thrilling opportunities of employment for you as a qualified professional, such as in academia, research institutions or in industry. Let us see one by one what are the positions typically offered for the doctoral graduates.

Becoming a university professor

There is an opportunity for you to become a professor in a university after finishing your doctoral studies. To be so, you need to become “Berufungsfähigkeit” or eligible professor. Becoming a professor, your research and teaching experience gained during doctoral studies at university, non-university and even industry can help you in the future. Your scientific research publications you have made during your studies are also another factor supporting you on your way to become a professor. If you possess these qualities you will be eligible to become a junior professor, managing position in research group or industry.

To become a university professor you must have:

• Completed a doctoral degree of an excellent achievement,
• Have pedagogical skills,
• Have extracurricular academic achievement,
• Have been enrolled in the habilitation process (capacity building) and passed the examination that examines the candidates ability to become a professor of the specific academic subject,
• Have published several scientific and research papers in international scientific peer-reviewed journals.

Forms of involve in the teaching process in a university are the followings:

• Junior professor
• Leader of a research group
• Work position in industry

Becoming a postdoctoral researcher or scientist

If your intentions are to continue your research, then you have the possibility to go through the postdoctoral studies. The postdoctoral education is a form where you engage in research activities as well as in a job or other scientific and research activities at university, non-university research institution or in a research-oriented company.

There are several scholarships offered for those interested to do a postdoctoral research in Germany, such as the German Research Foundation (DFG) which gets you in a position to work for two years in a research project in cooperation with an academic institution.

Postdoctoral research in university

Working on a research project after studies is amongst popular forms of postdoctoral engagements of students. Typically the candidate engages in a research project for a certain period in order to advance its academic capacity.

The postdoctoral job you can get into a university can vary, such as as a research assistant, research associate or funded project by a third party.

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A blue card in germany: requirements and eligibility in 2022.

Germany is home to one of the largest foreign-born labor forces and has an admirable work culture. Many expats find the high standard of living, strong economy, impressive productivity levels, and good job opportunities here appealing. If you’re a newcomer looking to enjoy these benefits, you need to understand the basics of the German Blue Card visa application .

The German EU Blue Card is a special work and resident permit for highly-skilled labor. It gives them the opportunity to work in high-demand fields or professions with future prospects. With a Blue Card in Germany, you can stay for four years, which is extendable on demand if you still meet the requirements after the elapsed duration.

If this looks like something you’d love to apply for, here are some requirements to be aware of.

The German Blue Card Eligibility 

The following conditions will affirm your eligibility if you fulfill them:

University Degree

You must have a degree from a German University or from a foreign university that is recognized in Germany. An entirely different degree that could still be compared to a degree in Germany will also suffice.

Qualification Recognition

The competent authorities in your discipline must verify the authenticity of your qualifications. This especially applies to regulated professions such as law, teaching, engineering, and other health service-related jobs. 

Employment Offer

You must have a concrete job offer from a German company to qualify for a Blue Card. Your official work contract must indicate your salary and position before it’ll be considered valid. 

Freelancers and self-employed individuals are excluded from applying for this permit, as it only works for employees in German companies.

Health Insurance

You must sign up for public health insurance before you get your EU Blue Card in Germany. There is an option available for people who would rather sign up for private health insurance, but that’s dependent on your pay grade.

The EU Blue Card Salary Threshold

Before you can qualify for a German Blue Card, you must have secured a job at a company in Germany willing to pay at least €56,400 per year. For professionals whose expertise is “in shortage” like IT, mathematics, natural sciences, human medicine, and engineering, the minimum salary is reduced to at least €43,992 per year.

For people with a salary lower than €56,400 per year, an approval from the German Federal Employment Agency must be requested, before a Blue Card can be granted to them.

How to Apply for the German Blue Card

Here’s a step-by-step process for applying for the German Blue Card:

Secure a Job

Find a job in Germany with an offer of at least one year. In the work contract, your position, duration of employment, and salary (within the required threshold) must be clearly stated. You can seek job opportunities on online job portals like Euraxess.de, Alumniportal-deutschland.org, and EURES.

Apply for a Visa

After securing a job, the next step is to apply for an employment visa from the German consulate or embassy. They will tell you the required documents to bring and schedule a visa interview with you.

Register your Living Address and Get Health Insurance

Register your living address at the local Resident’s Registration Office (Bürgeramt) and enroll with a health insurance provider. You must do this within 14 days of arrival. Your registration certificate and insurance certificate will be requested when you submit your application for the German Blue Card.

Apply for the EU German Blue Card

Gather the required documents and apply for the German Blue Card at the local Immigration Office (Ausländerbehörde) and wait for approval once the application is complete, which usually ranges from four to six weeks.

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