The Residence Act (AufenthG) regulates various types of residence permits, including the EU Blue Card. This permit is specifically aimed at qualified professionals who wish to work in Germany and already have a concrete job offer. On this page, you will find comprehensive information that will be helpful when applying for the EU Blue Card and learn what makes this residence permit so special.
Explanation
According to § 18g of the Residence Act (AufenthG), the EU Blue Card is a residence permit aimed at international academics from third countries who have completed a higher education degree and wish to work in Germany. A prerequisite is the recognition of the foreign degree in Germany or its comparability to a German degree, which usually requires an assessment by a state-recognized institution. Alternatively, having a tertiary education degree or employment in a shortage occupation can also provide access to the Blue Card. More details on the requirements can be found in the following section.
Advantages of the EU Blue Card
The EU Blue Card offers numerous benefits, including:
Freedom of Movement: After one year, you can move and travel freely within Europe. If the permit was issued in another EU country, you may enter Germany without a visa.
Family Reunification: Family members can join you under simplified conditions.
Permanent Residence: After a certain period in a qualified employment and with the appropriate language skills, you can obtain a settlement permit more quickly. A1-level language skills allow for application after 27 months, while B1-level skills permit application after just 21 months.
Requirements for the EU Blue Card
Qualification
Obtaining the EU Blue Card depends on various requirements that go beyond professional qualifications. In addition to university graduates, other qualified professionals may also be eligible for this residence permit.
The qualification requirements for the EU Blue Card are summarized as follows:
A higher education degree recognized in Germany or a German degree.
A tertiary education qualification that is at least equivalent to ISCED Level 6, such as master’s degrees or technical college degrees.
Employment in a shortage occupation (Engpassberufe).
Job Offer or Employment Contract
An employment contract or a binding job offer is another essential requirement for the EU Blue Card. A highly qualified degree alone is not sufficient. When applying, you must submit relevant documentation, such as the employment contract or job offer, along with your university degree certificate. The employment must take place in Germany, and the employer should have a business establishment in the country. Otherwise, the application for the Blue Card may be more difficult.
EU Blue Card and Changing Employers: Is It Possible?
Changing employers is generally unproblematic if you hold an EU Blue Card. However, you are required to notify the competent immigration authority about this change within one year of receiving the residence permit. They will then assess whether you continue to meet all the requirements for the EU Blue Card. Otherwise, there is a risk that your residence permit may be revoked.
Early Termination of Employment
If your employment, which is the basis for your EU Blue Card, ends prematurely, you must also report this to the immigration authority. You have two weeks from the time you learn about the change to do so.
Minimum Salary: What You Need to Earn
To obtain the EU Blue Card, you must demonstrate a minimum salary of €45,300 gross per year. This corresponds to a monthly gross income of €3,775. However, there are exceptions: to address the shortage of skilled workers, reduced salary requirements apply to shortage occupations. In such cases, an annual salary of €41,041.80 is sufficient, equating to a monthly gross salary of €3,420.15.
For recent graduates who obtained their university degree or a comparable qualification less than two years ago, a lower minimum salary requirement also applies.
Application for the EU Blue Card
To apply for the EU Blue Card, you must contact the immigration authority in your place of residence in Germany. Ensure that you submit your application before your visa expires. The responsible authority will provide you with the application form, which is usually also available online.
Required documents include:
Application for the EU Blue Card
Biometric passport photo
Passport
Valid employment visa
Proof of qualification
Employment contract or binding job offer
Work permit (if required)
Proof of health insurance
Rental agreement
Please note that the exact requirements may vary depending on the immigration authority.
Costs
According to § 45 AufenthV, the fee for applying for the EU Blue Card is €100. For extending the residence permit, the costs range from €93 (for over three months) to €96 (for up to three months).
Validity of the EU Blue Card
The EU Blue Card is a temporary residence permit, usually issued for four years. If the employment contract is shorter, the card will be extended by three months beyond the duration of the contract. A valid employment contract or binding job offer for at least six months is required. A change of workplace within the first twelve months may be suspended or denied by the immigration authority for 30 days. Renewal of the permit is possible as long as all conditions are still met. To extend your permit, contact your immigration authority in a timely manner.
What happens after the EU Blue Card?
You may be eligible for a settlement permit for permanent residency. We are happy to assist you in reviewing your chances for a permanent residence permit.