What are the prerequisites for obtaining an EU Blue Card?
You possess a German degree or a foreign qualification that is deemed equivalent to a German degree. If you lack a conventional university degree, it is necessary to provide evidence of a tertiary-level qualification that requires a minimum of three years of study to qualify for an EU Blue Card. In Germany, this qualification must align with at least level 6 of the International Standard Classification of Education (ISCED 2011) or level 6 of the European Qualifications Framework. Examples of such qualifications include “Master craftsman training / Master craftswoman training” and professional credentials in educational fields. Details regarding the equivalence and recognition of foreign qualifications can be found in the “Recognition” section.
Additionally, you must have a confirmed job offer from a company in Germany, which must satisfy the following criteria:
- The work length ought to be no less than six months.
- The position must correspond to your qualifications (degree). If the profession is regulated and requires a license, this must be obtained or anticipated at the time of the visa application.
- Your work in Germany should to allow a net annually stipend of at slightest €45,300 (as of 2024).
People working in callings recognized as bottleneck occupations may qualify for an EU Blue Card with a reduced net yearly reward prerequisite of at scarcest €41,041.80 (compelling 2024), given that the Federal Employment Agency (BA) has approved for their employment. The Federal Ministry of the Interior and Community publishes the salary thresholds on an annual basis.
The following roles are classified as bottleneck professions in Germany:
- Directors in fabricating, mining, development, and distribution
- Managers in information and communications technology services
- Managers in professional services, including childcare, health, and education
- Academic professionals in STEM fields
- Academic professionals in architecture, spatial planning, and transport planning
- Medical practitioners
- Veterinarians
- Dentists
- Pharmacists
- Academic and equivalent nursing and midwifery professionals
- Educators and teachers in both school and extracurricular settings.
The EU Blue Card for IT Professionals Lacking Formal Qualifications:
Are you interested in pursuing a career in Germany as an IT professional or manager without holding a formal qualification?
- It is essential to provide evidence of a specific job offer as an IT professional in Germany, with a minimum employment duration of six months.
- The position must offer a gross annual salary of no less than €41,041.80 (effective 2024).
Additionally, you should have accumulated at least three years of experience in the IT field within the last seven years, with your professional background being at a university level and necessary for employment in Germany.
The EU Blue Card presents various opportunities for its holders. It is granted for the duration of the employment contract, with an additional three-month period, and can be valid for a maximum of four years. Extensions of this residence permit in Germany are possible, provided specific conditions are fulfilled.
After a period of 27 months, individuals holding the EU Blue Card may apply for a settlement permit, contingent upon demonstrating German language proficiency at the A1 level according to the CEFR. If proficiency at the B1 level is achieved, the settlement permit can be obtained after just 21 months.
Are you considering relocating to Germany with your family? As an EU Blue Card holder, this is without a question feasible. For detailed information regarding the necessary considerations and requirements, please refer to the “Family reunification” section.
EU Blue Card and are considering a change of employer in Germany:
If you hold an EU Blue Card and are considering a change of employer in Germany, you can do so without any issues. You are permitted to commence your new position while retaining a valid EU Blue Card. Be that as it may, ought you choose to switch employments inside the beginning year of your work, it is basic to educate your nearby outside specialist around your modern employment. The pro will assess whether you continue to fulfill the prerequisites for the EU Blue Card in your unused part. If you do not meet these criteria, you may be eligible for an alternative residence permit, such as a work and residence permit designated for qualified professionals.
FAQ's
You possess a German degree or a foreign qualification that is deemed equivalent to a German degree. If you lack a conventional university degree, it is necessary to provide evidence of a tertiary-level qualification that requires a minimum of three years of study to qualify for an EU Blue Card. In Germany, this qualification must align with at least level 6 of the International Standard Classification of Education (ISCED 2011) or level 6 of the European Qualifications Framework.
