What Is the EU Blue Card?
The EU Blue Card in Germany is a residence and work permit aimed at attracting highly skilled non-EU/EEA workers to fill positions that require specific qualifications and expertise. To qualify for the EU Blue Card in Germany, applicants must hold a recognized university degree or an equivalent qualification, along with a binding job offer or employment contract that meets the minimum salary requirement. As of 2024, the minimum salary for EU Blue Card holders in Germany is EUR 58,800 per year (or EUR 47,184 for shortage occupations such as mathematics, IT, natural sciences, engineering, and human medicine).
Once issued, the EU Blue Card allows holders to live and work in Germany for up to four years. It also provides a route to permanent residency, typically after 33 months of employment in a highly skilled role, or 21 months if the applicant attains a B1 level of proficiency in the German language. The EU Blue Card is especially beneficial as it allows holders and their families to travel freely within the Schengen Area. It plays a crucial role in attracting and retaining skilled professionals in Germany’s labor market, supporting the country’s economic growth and fostering innovation.
