EU Blue Card
A major German work route for qualifying professionals from outside the EU. It may provide a pathway toward permanent residence, while qualification recognition, salary, family rights and other criteria require current verification.
Processing time
4-12 weeks
Potential residence pathway
Potential permanent residence route from 21-33 months
Employer sponsorship
Required
Job offer
Required
Salary threshold
Annual national threshold, reduced for shortage occupations
Cost
About EUR 100 in fees
Permit duration
Up to 4 years, renewable
Criteria to verify
- Recognised university degree, verified on the ANABIN database.
- Binding employment contract or offer in a matching field.
- Gross salary above the current Blue Card threshold.
Indicative employer steps
- Issue a contract stating salary, role and duration.
- Complete the declaration of employment for the authorities.
- Support the fast-track procedure where available.
Watch out for
- Unrecognised degrees are the single most common rejection reason.
- Job changes in the first year need authority approval.
- B1 German may shorten the permanent residence timeline where current criteria are met.
General educational information only, not immigration or legal advice or an eligibility assessment. Rules change. Confirm current criteria, thresholds, fees and outcomes with the relevant authority or an independent qualified adviser before you act.