Germany EU Blue Card
Residence Permit for Highly Qualified Professionals via Section 18g AufenthG
Key Takeaways
- Legal Basis: Section 18g German Residence Act (AufenthG)
- 2025 Minimum Salary: €48,300 gross/year (€43,759.80 for shortage occupations)
- University Degree Required: Recognized degree or IT specialist with 3+ years experience
- Initial Permit Duration: Up to 4 years (employment contract + 3 months)
- Permanent Residence: After 21 months with B1 German or 27 months with A1 German
- Citizenship Eligibility: After 5 years lawful residence (June 2024 reform)
- Family Reunification: Spouse and children under 18 eligible with privileged rules
- Job Change Freedom: Unrestricted after 1 year of employment
About Germany
Germany, officially the Federal Republic of Germany, is Europe's largest economy and a global leader in manufacturing, engineering, technology, and innovation. The EU Blue Card enables highly qualified professionals to access this dynamic labor market.
Legal Framework and Competent Authority
Governing Legislation
Section 18g of the German Residence Act (Aufenthaltsgesetz, AufenthG)
The EU Blue Card is a special residence permit for highly qualified third-country nationals who wish to take up qualified employment in Germany. The legal basis is Section 18g AufenthG, which implements EU Directive 2021/1883 (revised EU Blue Card Directive) into German national law.
Key Legislative Features:
Section 18g establishes requirements for university qualifications, minimum salary thresholds, employment conditions, and fast-track permanent residence pathways. The law was amended in November 2023 as part of the Skilled Immigration Act (Fachkräfteeinwanderungsgesetz) to expand access for IT specialists without formal degrees and reduce permanent residence waiting periods.
Competent Authorities
Ausländerbehörde (Foreigners' Office / Immigration Office)
The local Foreigners' Office (Ausländerbehörde) is the government authority responsible for issuing EU Blue Cards. Applications are submitted to and processed by the Ausländerbehörde with jurisdiction over the applicant's intended place of residence in Germany.
Federal Employment Agency (Bundesagentur für Arbeit, BA)
The Federal Employment Agency provides approval for employment in shortage occupations and for salary levels below the general threshold. BA approval is automatically integrated into the visa application process.
German Embassy or Consulate
Applicants residing outside Germany must apply for an initial national visa (D-visa) at the German embassy or consulate with jurisdiction over their country of residence. After entry to Germany, the visa is converted into an EU Blue Card at the local Ausländerbehörde.
Salary Requirements for 2025
The Federal Ministry of the Interior and Community sets minimum salary thresholds annually based on the statutory pension insurance contribution assessment ceiling.
General Occupations
- Standard threshold for all occupations
- No Federal Employment Agency approval required
- Calculated as 50% of pension insurance assessment ceiling
- Updated annually each January
- All professions eligible at this level
Shortage Occupations
- Reduced threshold for professions with labor shortages
- Federal Employment Agency approval required
- Calculated as 45.3% of pension assessment ceiling
- Includes scientists, engineers, IT professionals, physicians
- Full list published by Federal Ministry
Recent Graduates
- For graduates who completed degree within last 3 years
- Applies regardless of occupation
- Federal Employment Agency approval required
- Facilitates entry for young professionals
- Same threshold as shortage occupations
Shortage Occupations List (Official)
The following professions qualify for the reduced salary threshold of €43,759.80 gross per year:
- Scientists in natural science disciplines (physicists, chemists, biologists)
- Mathematicians and statisticians
- Engineers (all specializations: mechanical, electrical, civil, software, etc.)
- Architects, urban planners, interior designers, traffic planners
- Information and communications technology professionals and managers
- Physicians (human medicine)
- Manufacturing, mining, construction, and distribution managers
- Professional services managers (healthcare, childcare, education services)
Eligibility Requirements
University Degree
A university degree recognized in Germany or a foreign university degree comparable to a German degree. The degree must correspond to at least level 6 of the International Standard Classification of Education (ISCED 2011) or level 6 of the European Qualifications Framework.
Concrete Job Offer
A binding job offer or employment contract from a German employer for qualified employment corresponding to the degree. The contract must be for at least 6 months and specify salary meeting the applicable threshold.
Salary Threshold
Gross annual salary must meet or exceed the applicable threshold: €48,300 for general occupations, or €43,759.80 for shortage occupations and recent graduates (2025 figures).
Recognized Qualifications
Foreign degrees must be officially recognized in Germany. Use the anabin database to verify recognition status. For regulated professions (doctors, lawyers, teachers), professional license required.
Health Insurance
Valid German statutory health insurance or private health insurance meeting German requirements covering all risks. Foreign insurance generally not accepted.
Clean Criminal Record
Police clearance certificates from country of citizenship and country of current residence (if different). Certificates must be recent (within 6 months) and apostilled.
Special Provision for IT Professionals Without Formal Degree
IT specialists without university degrees may qualify for the EU Blue Card if they meet the following criteria:
- At least 3 years of professional experience in IT at university-graduate level
- Concrete job offer in IT sector at university-graduate level
- Salary meets shortage occupation threshold (€43,759.80 for 2025)
- Federal Employment Agency approval required
- Professional experience must be within the past 7 years
Note: This provision was introduced in November 2023 under Section 18g(2) AufenthG to address IT sector labor shortages.
EU Blue Card Benefits and Advantages
Fast-Track Permanent Residence
Settlement permit available after only 21 months with B1 German language proficiency, or 27 months with A1 level. Significantly faster than the standard 3-year requirement for other residence permits.
EU Mobility Rights
After 18 months of holding an EU Blue Card in Germany, you may move to another EU member state (except Denmark and Ireland) and apply for an EU Blue Card there without visa requirements.
Privileged Family Reunification
Spouse and children under 18 eligible for residence without German language requirement for spouse. Spouse receives unrestricted work authorization immediately. No proof of sufficient living space required for EU Blue Card holders coming from another EU state.
Job Change Flexibility
After 1 year of employment, you may change jobs without restrictions and without needing to notify the Ausländerbehörde, as long as your EU Blue Card remains valid.
Path to German Citizenship
German citizenship available after 5 years of lawful residence (reduced from 8 years as of June 27, 2024). Dual citizenship now permitted. No need to renounce previous citizenship.
Extended Absence Rights
EU Blue Card holders may leave Germany for up to 12 months without their residence permit expiring, compared to 6 months for standard residence permits.
Education and Healthcare Access
Full access to Germany's excellent public education system and comprehensive healthcare services. Children attend public schools at no cost.
Equal Treatment Rights
Equal treatment with German nationals regarding working conditions, salary, social security, pension benefits, and recognition of qualifications.
Application Process
The complete process from job offer to EU Blue Card issuance typically takes 4 to 8 weeks for visa processing, plus additional time for document preparation.
Secure Job Offer in Germany
Obtain binding job offer or employment contract from German employer. Verify that position corresponds to your qualifications and salary meets applicable threshold. Contract must be for minimum 6 months.
Verify Degree Recognition
Check anabin database to confirm German university is recognized (H+ status) or obtain Statement of Comparability from Central Office for Foreign Education (ZAB) if university not listed. For regulated professions, obtain professional license.
Gather Required Documents
Collect passport, university degree, employment contract, CV, police clearance certificates, health insurance certificate, and proof of accommodation. All foreign documents must be apostilled and translated into German by certified translators.
Apply for National Visa (D-Visa)
Submit visa application at German embassy or consulate in country of residence. Complete application forms, provide all supporting documents, and pay visa fee (€75 for most applicants). Many embassies allow online application through Consular Services Portal.
Embassy Processing and BA Approval
Embassy forwards application to German Ausländerbehörde, which requests Federal Employment Agency approval if required. Processing time typically 4 to 8 weeks, though longer periods possible.
Visa Approval and Entry to Germany
Upon approval, D-visa issued for entry to Germany. Visa typically valid for 3 months. Travel to Germany within visa validity period.
Register Address in Germany
Within 2 weeks of arrival, register address at local residents' registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt). Obtain registration confirmation (Meldebescheinigung).
Convert Visa to EU Blue Card
Schedule appointment at local Ausländerbehörde to convert D-visa into EU Blue Card. Bring registration confirmation, health insurance, passport, employment contract, and any additional requested documents. Electronic residence permit card (eAT) issued, typically within 4 weeks. Fee: €100.
Commence Employment
Begin work once EU Blue Card is issued. Employer registers employee for social security (health insurance, pension insurance) and tax purposes.
Visa-Exempt Nationals (Simplified Process)
Nationals of the following countries may enter Germany without a visa and apply directly at the local Ausländerbehörde for the EU Blue Card:
Australia, Canada, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, Republic of Korea, United Kingdom, United States of America
Note: Employment may not commence until the EU Blue Card is issued. All other requirements and documentation remain the same.
Required Documents
Identity Documents
- Valid passport (minimum 12 months validity)
- Passport-size biometric photographs
- Birth certificate
- Marriage certificate (if applicable)
Educational Qualifications
- University degree certificate or diploma
- Academic transcripts
- Statement of Comparability from ZAB (if required)
- Professional license (for regulated professions)
Employment Documentation
- Signed employment contract or binding job offer
- Detailed job description (Erklärung zum Beschäftigungsverhältnis)
- Employer company registration documents
- CV documenting professional experience
Criminal Record Certificates
- Police clearance from country of citizenship
- Police clearance from country of current residence (if different)
- Must be recent (within 6 months)
- Apostilled and certified German translation
Health Insurance
- German statutory health insurance certificate, or
- Private health insurance meeting German requirements
- Coverage must be valid from entry date
- Proof of coverage scope compliant with §257(2a) SGB V
Accommodation Proof
- Rental contract or property ownership documents
- Letter of accommodation from host (if applicable)
- Hotel reservation for initial period
All documents issued outside Germany must be apostilled or legalized by the competent authority of the issuing country according to the Hague Apostille Convention. Documents in languages other than German must be translated by certified translators, and the translations must also be apostilled or certified.
Government Fees and Costs
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| National Visa (D-Visa) | €75 | Initial visa application at German embassy/consulate |
| EU Blue Card Issuance | €100 | Standard fee for adults (Turkish nationals: €37 for 24+, €22.80 under 24) |
| EU Blue Card Extension | €93-€100 | Renewal after initial period |
| Settlement Permit (Permanent) | €124-€147 | After 21-27 months for EU Blue Card holders (Turkish nationals: €22.80 total) |
| Degree Recognition (ZAB) | €200 | Statement of Comparability if degree not in anabin database |
Additional Professional Costs (Not Included Above)
The following costs are typically incurred but are not government fees:
- Document translations: €30-€100 per document (certified translator required)
- Document apostille/legalization: €15-€50 per document
- Police clearance certificates: Varies by country
- German language courses: €200-€1,000 depending on level and provider
- Immigration lawyer/advisor fees: Variable based on service scope
Fast-Track Permanent Residence (Settlement Permit)
EU Blue Card holders benefit from accelerated access to permanent residence under Section 18c(2) AufenthG.
21-Month Pathway
- German Language: B1 level proficiency required
- Employment: Continuous qualified employment for 21 months
- Pension Contributions: 21 months paid into statutory pension insurance
- Civic Knowledge: Pass "Living in Germany" test
- Sufficient Living Space: Adequate housing documented
27-Month Pathway
- German Language: A1 level proficiency required
- Employment: Continuous qualified employment for 27 months
- Pension Contributions: 27 months paid into statutory pension insurance
- Civic Knowledge: Pass "Living in Germany" test
- Sufficient Living Space: Adequate housing documented
Settlement Permit Advantages
The settlement permit (Niederlassungserlaubnis) is a permanent, unlimited residence title providing:
- Unlimited right to reside in Germany with no renewal requirements
- Unrestricted access to employment and self-employment
- No minimum salary requirements
- Enhanced social security and pension rights
- Foundation for German citizenship application after 5 years total residence
| Residence Type | EU Blue Card | Settlement Permit |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | Up to 4 years (renewable) | Unlimited (permanent) |
| Salary Requirement | Must maintain threshold | No minimum salary |
| Employment Flexibility | Qualified employment required | Unrestricted employment and self-employment |
| Renewal Required | Yes | No |
| Absence Allowed | Up to 12 months | Up to 6 months (special cases longer) |
| German Language | Not required initially | A1 or B1 required (depending on pathway) |
Path to German Citizenship
Following the June 27, 2024 reform of German nationality law, foreign nationals may apply for German citizenship after 5 years of lawful residence.
5 Years Legal Residence
Continuous lawful residence in Germany for 5 years (reduced from 8 years). Half of study or vocational training periods count toward this requirement.
Permanent Residence Title
Must hold settlement permit or a residence permit that can lead to permanent residence (such as EU Blue Card or skilled worker residence permit).
Financial Independence
Ability to support oneself and dependent family members without recourse to public assistance funds (Arbeitslosengeld II or Sozialhilfe).
German Language B1
Sufficient knowledge of German language at B1 level of Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
Civic Knowledge
Pass naturalization test demonstrating knowledge of German legal system, society, democratic principles, and way of life in Germany.
Clean Criminal Record
No serious criminal convictions. Minor offenses may be overlooked depending on severity and time elapsed.
Constitutional Commitment
Declaration of commitment to the free democratic basic order of the Federal Republic of Germany and renunciation of extremist activities.
Dual Citizenship Allowed
As of June 27, 2024, dual citizenship is permitted. Applicants no longer need to renounce previous citizenship when obtaining German citizenship.
Germany eliminated the "fast-track naturalization" option that previously permitted citizenship after 3 years for applicants with exceptional integration achievements. The standard 5-year residence requirement now applies uniformly to all applicants. EU Blue Card holders follow the same 5-year pathway as other skilled workers.
Job Change and Employment Flexibility
| Period | Job Change Rules | Notification Required |
|---|---|---|
| First 12 Months | Job change requires approval from Ausländerbehörde. New position must still meet EU Blue Card requirements (salary threshold, qualified employment). | Yes - prior approval required before starting new job |
| After 12 Months | Unrestricted job change allowed. May change employers or positions without restrictions as long as EU Blue Card remains valid. | No notification required to immigration authorities |
| Job Loss | If employment terminates, residence rights continue for at least 3 months for job seeking. May take up new qualified employment during this period. | Should notify Ausländerbehörde of employment termination |
Important Notes on Job Changes
- After 1 year, new employment does not need to meet EU Blue Card salary thresholds, though lower salary may affect permanent residence eligibility
- If new job does not meet EU Blue Card requirements, may need to convert to different residence permit type
- Ausländerbehörde will reassess whether new position still qualifies for EU Blue Card when extending the permit
- Employers must register any new employee with social security and tax authorities
NTL Professional Advisory Services
NTL provides comprehensive professional advisory services for Germany's EU Blue Card programme, coordinating qualified German immigration lawyers and credential evaluation specialists throughout the application process.
Eligibility Assessment
Comprehensive review of educational qualifications, professional experience, job offer details, and salary verification to confirm EU Blue Card eligibility.
Degree Recognition Coordination
Verification of degree recognition status using anabin database, coordination of Statement of Comparability from ZAB if required, and professional licensing support for regulated occupations.
Document Preparation and Authentication
Complete document gathering, apostille coordination, and arrangement of certified German translations through authorized translators.
Immigration Lawyer Coordination
Connection with specialized German immigration lawyers (Rechtsanwälte) experienced in EU Blue Card applications and Federal Employment Agency approval processes.
Visa Application Support
Complete visa application package preparation and submission support at German embassy or consulate, including form completion and appointment scheduling.
Relocation and Settlement Assistance
Support for entry to Germany, address registration, Ausländerbehörde appointment scheduling, health insurance arrangement, and initial settlement logistics.
Extension and Settlement Permit Support
Ongoing support for EU Blue Card extensions and settlement permit (permanent residence) applications after 21-27 months.
Citizenship Application Coordination
Guidance and support for German citizenship applications after 5 years of lawful residence, including naturalization test preparation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Start Your Germany EU Blue Card Application
Contact NTL for professional assessment and guidance on the EU Blue Card pathway. Our advisors coordinate with licensed German immigration lawyers and credential evaluation specialists.
Request ConsultationOfficial Sources and References
-
German Residence Act (Aufenthaltsgesetz, AufenthG) - Section 18g
Federal Law
Type: Legal Basis for EU Blue Card
https://www.gesetze-im-internet.de/englisch_aufenthg/englisch_aufenthg.html -
Make it in Germany - EU Blue Card Information
Federal Government Portal
Type: Official Government Immigration Portal
https://www.make-it-in-germany.com/en/visa-residence/types/eu-blue-card -
European Commission - EU Blue Card Germany
EU Directive 2021/1883 Implementation
Type: EU Official Documentation
https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/policies/migration-and-asylum/legal-migration-and-integration/work/eu-blue-card_en -
Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF)
Official German Government Immigration Authority
Type: Government Agency Statistics and Guidance
https://www.bamf.de/EN/Themen/Statistik/BlaueKarteEU/blauekarteeu-node.html -
Federal Ministry of the Interior and Community
Annual Salary Threshold Announcements
Type: Official Regulatory Authority
Date: Annual updates each December for following year
https://www.bmi.bund.de/ -
German Nationality Act (Staatsangehörigkeitsgesetz, StAG)
Federal Law
Type: Legal Basis for Citizenship
Date: As amended June 27, 2024
https://www.gesetze-im-internet.de/englisch_stag/englisch_stag.html -
anabin Database - Foreign Education Recognition
Central Office for Foreign Education (ZAB)
Type: Official Degree Recognition Database
https://anabin.kmk.org/ -
Skilled Immigration Act (Fachkräfteeinwanderungsgesetz)
Federal Government Information
Type: Legislative Reform Documentation
Date: Effective March 1, 2024
https://www.make-it-in-germany.com/en/visa-residence/skilled-immigration-act
Germany's EU Blue Card programme operates under Section 18g of the German Residence Act (Aufenthaltsgesetz), which is subject to legislative amendment by the German Bundestag. Programme requirements, salary thresholds, qualification standards, fees, procedures, and eligibility criteria may change through regulatory reform.
Applications are adjudicated by local Ausländerbehörden (immigration offices) with Federal Employment Agency involvement for salaries below the general threshold. Each application is evaluated on individual qualifications, employment contract terms, and completeness of documentation.
NTL provides professional advisory services through coordination with licensed German immigration lawyers but does not guarantee approval, processing timelines, or programme outcomes.