EU Blue Card in Germany

EU Blue Card (§18g AufenthG)

Residence permit for university graduates and certain experienced professionals (e.g. IT specialists) with a qualifying job offer meeting a salary threshold; facilitates fast settlement and EU mobility.

Processing time

Several weeks to a few months; varies by mission. No fixed published time.

Validity

Up to 4 years (or contract duration plus 3 months).

Language requirement

No German required for issuance; A1 reduces settlement-permit clock to 27 months, B1 to 21 months.

Permanent residence

Settlement permit after 27 months with A1 German, or 21 months with B1 German (§18c(2)).

Citizenship

Naturalisation after 5 years (3 years with C1 and special integration achievements).

Requirements

• Valid passport
• University degree (anabin-verified) or, for IT, at least 3 years comparable professional experience
• Employment contract of at least 6 months meeting the salary threshold
• Proof of health insurance

Required Documents

• Valid passport required
• Visa application required
• University degree verified via anabin, or proof of 3+ years comparable experience for IT required
• Employment contract meeting the salary threshold (min. 6 months) required
• Proof of health insurance required

Official fees

• National D visa 75 EUR
• EU Blue Card issuance (approx.) 100 EUR

Process Steps

1. 1

   Confirm qualifying job offer

   Secure an employment contract meeting the 2026 threshold: approx. EUR 50,700 standard occupations, or EUR 45,934.20 for shortage occupations and recent graduates.

2. 2

   Apply on Consular Services Portal

   Submit the application via the Federal Foreign Office portal.

3. 3

   Embassy appointment

   Attend the mission with originals and biometrics.

4. 4

   Enter and obtain Blue Card

   Register and collect the EU Blue Card at the foreigners authority.

Official Sources

• EU Blue Card — BAMF Official
• What is the Blue Card? — Federal Foreign Office FAQ Official