Germany EU Blue Card

Written by Mike Arnold Moderated by Oleksandra Dosii

Mike Arnold

Mike is a freelance writer with eight years of experience and a love for travel, all things business, tabletop games and green tea.

Oleksandra Dosii

Oleksandra is a dedicated marketer with a passion for growing HR-tech products. She believes content marketing is about delivering high-quality content that provides value—not just generating leads. Since 2016, Oleksandra has been involved in tech talent relocation.

Last update: September 21, 2024

Next update: Scheduled for February 1, 2025

If you're a non-EU national qualified professional looking to make your way into Germany to live, work, and discover the opportunities available here, the EU Blue Card might be the ticket you've been looking for.

While common across all EU countries, Germany is actively seeking the top talent of the world to help bolster the economy and to continue to grow itself as the global powerhouse of industry and business that it's been for decades.

Since the Blue Card scheme was established in 2012, over 200,000 blue cards have been issued in Germany alone, making it a popular choice for the best and brightest minds from around the globe.

 

What are the eligibility criteria for the Germany EU Blue Card?

If you're a member of the EU Schengen Area, you won't need a visa or a Blue Card. You can simply fly over to live, work, or study as you wish. However, if you're staying more than 90 days, you'll still need to register your presence in the country.

You can find out more about this processhere.

However, if you're from outside the EU, including the UK, you'll need a visa to move into the country, but only if you meet the high standards and criteria.

• German university degree: If you've earned a degree from a recognised German university, you automatically meet the educational requirement for the Blue Card.
• Recognised equivalent foreign degree: If you hold a foreign degree, it must be recognised as equivalent to a German university degree. This typically involves an assessment process to ensure your qualifications meet the required standards. Those who have studied in the US, UK, Australia, Canada, or the EU have a high chance of having their qualifications recognised. They must be equivalent to the degrees outlined here.
• Binding job offer or employment contract: You must have a concrete and binding job offer or an employment contract from a German employer. This offer should clearly outline the terms and conditions of your employment, including your job title, salary, and duration of the contract.
• General threshold: Your annual gross salary must be at least €45,300* (approximately £37,749) as of 2024.
• Shortage occupations: If your profession is listed on Germany's Shortage Occupation List, which includes IT specialists and mathematics, natural sciences, technology, and health professions, the minimum salary requirement is reduced to €41,041.80 (approximately £34,200.28) as of 2024. These occupations are in high demand in Germany, and the lower salary threshold aims to attract qualified professionals in these fields.
• Regulated professions: If your profession is regulated in Germany, meaning it requires specific qualifications or licences to practise, you may need to obtain recognition of your foreign qualifications before applying for the Blue Card.
• Recognition process: The recognition process can vary depending on your profession and qualifications. It's essential to research the specific requirements and procedures for your field to ensure you meet all the necessary criteria.

The official website for all your Blue Card information is www.make-it-in-germany.com.

It may help to work alongside a visa consultant who can help guide you through the process while ensuring your documentation is complete and ready to submit.

What documentation is needed for the EU Blue Card?

The documentation part of your application process is the most important, as it will make or break your application's validity and ultimate success. There's a lot to consider, so let's break it down.

• Printout of the online application form: This includes the completed VIDEX online application form with barcodes, signed on pages 5 and 6.
• Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Germany, issued within the last 10 years, and have at least two consecutive blank pages. You'll also need to provide a photocopy of the biodata page.
• Biometric passport photos: Submit two recent, fully biometric passport photos measuring 35 x 45 mm.
• Employer's declaration: Your employer in Germany needs to complete the "Erklärung zum Beschäftigungsverhältnis" form, confirming the details of your employment contract and salary.
• Academic degree or tertiary qualification: Provide the original or a certified copy of your degree certificate or qualification. If the document is not in German, English, or French, include a certified translation.
• Proof of recognition (if applicable): If your profession is regulated in Germany, you may need to provide proof of recognition of your foreign qualifications. This could include printouts from the official database, a "Statement of Comparability," or formal recognition documentation.
• IT professionals (without formal qualification): If you're an IT professional without a formal degree, you must submit evidence of your full employment history for the past seven years, including reference letters detailing your roles and responsibilities.
• Health insurance confirmation: Provide proof of health insurance coverage that meets the standards of statutory German public health insurance.
• Academic/professional curriculum vitae: Submit your CV or resume outlining your educational and professional background.
• Pre-approval from the Federal Employment Agency (if available): If you have pre-approval from the Federal Employment Agency, include a copy with your application.
• Prepaid, self-addressed return envelope (if applicable): If you're applying directly at the German embassy or consulate, you'll need a prepaid, self-addressed Special Delivery return envelope (up to 500g) to return your passport. This is not required if you apply through a TLScontact Visa Application Centre.

There may also be some other considerations here, which include:

• Originals and copies: Always present the original of each document along with its copy during your appointment.
• Translations: Any documents not in German, English, or French must be accompanied by a certified translation.
• Visa fees: Visa fees are applicable and vary depending on the embassy or consulate. See below for more information.

What is the application process for the Germany EU Blue Card?

Once your documentation is in check and ready to go, you can start to move into the application process. Fortunately, the German EU Blue Card process is structured and relatively straightforward.

You just need to be prepared and organised to ensure the smoothest process possible.

Where to apply

• From your home country: If you are currently residing outside of Germany, you must submit your application at the German embassy or consulate in your home country.
• From within Germany: In some instances, such as if you are already legally residing in Germany on another visa, you may be able to apply for the Blue Card directly at the foreigners' authority (Ausländerbehörde) in your place of residence. However, it's crucial to confirm the specific requirements and procedures with the relevant authorities beforehand.

Steps to apply

1. Complete the VIDEX online application form: The first step is to fill out the VIDEX online application form. This form captures your personal information, employment details, and other relevant information required for the Blue Card application. Once completed, print one copy of the form, including the barcode page, and sign it in the designated areas.
2. Compile supporting documentation: Gather all the necessary supporting documents as outlined in the "Documentation" section below. Ensure all documents are originals or certified copies, and any non-German, English, or French documents are accompanied by certified translations.
3. Book an appointment: Schedule an appointment at a Visa Application Centre operated by TLScontact. The location centres will depend on the country you’re in when applying.

Additional considerations

• Processing time: In most cases, Blue Card applications are processed within two weeks. However, the processing time may be longer if your application requires approval from other German government agencies, such as the Federal Employment Agency, or if you have previously lived in Germany.
• Communication: The German embassy or consulate will contact you if they have any questions or require additional documentation. They will also inform you once a decision has been made on your application.
• Family members: If you're planning to bring your spouse and children with you to Germany, they will need to submit separate visa applications.

What is the valid duration of the EU Blue Card?

The Germany EU Blue Card is valid up to the duration of your employment contract, plus an additional three months.

However, the maximum validity period for the initial Blue Card is four years. This allows you ample time to establish yourself in your new role and contribute your skills to the German workforce.

But, if you have a shorter employment contract, let's say two years, your Blue Card will be issued for two years plus three months.

Renewal

• Continued eligibility: You can apply to renew your Blue Card if your employment continues and you still meet the eligibility criteria, including the minimum salary threshold and any relevant professional qualifications.
• Extension period: Renewals are typically granted for the remaining duration of your employment contract, up to a maximum of three years.

Pathway to permanent residency

• Settlement permit: After holding the EU Blue Card for a specific period and meeting certain conditions, you can apply for a settlement permit, which grants you permanent residency in Germany.
• Language skills and residency duration: The required residency period for obtaining a settlement permit depends on your German language proficiency:
  • 33 months: If you can demonstrate German language skills at level B1 according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
  • 21 months: If you have a higher level of German language proficiency, at least B2 or above.

With all this in mind, the Germany EU Blue Card, therefore, not only provides immediate work and residence authorisation but also opens a pathway to long-term settlement and integration into German society.

What are the application costs for the Germany EU Blue Card?

The cost of the Germany EU Blue Card is €110 (approximately £92), a processing fee that's payable upon application submission.

Specific categories of applicants may be eligible for fee waivers or reductions. Details on these exemptions can be found on the website of the German Missions in the United Kingdom.

Note: If you are submitting your application through a Visa Application Centre operated by TLScontact, you will also need to pay additional service fees.

You can pay the visa fee directly at the German embassy or consulate using Mastercard or Visa credit or debit cards. The cardholder must be present to sign the debit voucher. Digital wallet or mobile payments are not accepted.

Important notes

• Non-refundable: Visa fees are non-refundable, even if your application is denied or withdrawn.
• Payment timing: Fees are payable at the time of application submission.
• Up-to-date information: Always check the official websites for the most current fee information and payment options.

Other important things to know

Beyond everything in the guide above, there are several other aspects that warrant your attention when considering the Germany EU Blue Card.

Family reunification

As an EU Blue Card holder, you have the right to bring your spouse and children to Germany with you.

Family members enjoy simplified family reunification conditions. Spouses are not required to demonstrate German language proficiency and are granted immediate and unrestricted access to the German labour market.

Self-employment

After holding the EU Blue Card for at least 18 months, you may be eligible to pursue self-employment in Germany, provided you meet certain conditions and obtain the necessary approvals.

Travel within the Schengen Area

The EU Blue Card not only allows you to live and work in Germany but also grants you the freedom to travel within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180 days.

Additional considerations

• Legal entitlement: If you meet all the eligibility criteria for the EU Blue Card, you have a legal entitlement to receive it.
• EU-wide program: The EU Blue Card scheme is available in all EU Member States except Denmark and Ireland, although specific conditions, such as the minimum salary threshold, may vary slightly between countries.

Important note: Remember that immigration regulations and visa requirements can change. Always consult the official German Federal Foreign Office website or seek professional advice for the most up-to-date and accurate information.

While Germany has spent a lot of time investing in their EU Blue Card scheme, juggling all the different aspects of the application process, the forms, and still working and managing other areas of your life can be stressful and overwhelming.

That's why it can pay to partner with an experienced visa consultant to help iron out the creases, overcome the challenges, and streamline everything to make your journey smooth and successful.

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