EU Blue Card
Germany’s fast-track permit for highly qualified professionals.

Key advantage: Permanent residence can be obtained after 21 months (with B1 German) or 33 months (with A1 German) – significantly faster than other routes.

Who is the EU Blue Card for?

The EU Blue Card is for third-country nationals who have a university degree and a concrete job offer in Germany with a minimum gross annual salary. In 2026, the thresholds are:

  • €50,700 for scientists, mathematicians, engineers, doctors, and IT specialists (so-called STEM occupations) [6†L23-L28]
  • €45,934.20 for all other occupations [6†L28-L29]
  • Reduced thresholds apply for certain professions (e.g., mathematicians, engineers, natural scientists, doctors, IT professionals) [6†L23-L28]

Your foreign university degree must be recognised as comparable to a German degree. Use the ANABIN database to check the status. If your university is classified as "H+" or "H+", your degree is generally recognised. If only "H-", you may need a Statement of Comparability (ZAB) [6†L27-L30].

Path to Permanent Residence & Citizenship

Permanent residence (settlement permit): EU Blue Card holders can apply for a settlement permit after 21 months if they have B1 German, or 33 months with A1 German. This is much faster than the standard 5-year requirement.

Family reunification: Spouses and minor children may join you. Spouses are immediately allowed to work. No proof of adequate living space is required for EU Blue Card holders.

Long-term residence EU: After 5 years, you may qualify for long-term residence status in the EU, allowing you to move to other EU countries more easily.

Application Process

1. Check degree recognition in ANABIN (H+ / H+ status).
2. Secure a job offer meeting the minimum salary threshold.
3. Apply at the German embassy in your home country or via the Consular Services Portal where available [10†L12-L15].
4. After arrival: register your address, apply for a residence permit at the local Foreigners' Office (Ausländerbehörde).

Processing time: usually 4-8 weeks. The Federal Employment Agency (BA) must approve the employment conditions [10†L39-L41].

Do you have a job offer meeting the EU Blue Card salary threshold?

We verify degree recognition, prepare the application, and ensure you meet the salary requirements.

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Related Resources

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