EU Blue Card Requirements
If you're considering applying for an EU Blue Card in Germany, here are the key requirements you'll need to meet:
1. Educational Qualifications
- You must hold a German degree or a foreign degree that is recognized as comparable to a German qualification.
- If you don't possess a traditional university degree, you need to demonstrate a tertiary-level qualification that took at least three years to complete.
- This qualification should correspond to at least level 6 of the International Standard Classification of Education (ISCED 2011) or level 6 of the European Qualifications Framework.
Examples of qualifying credentials include:
- “Master craftsman training”
- Professional qualifications in fields such as education
For information on the equivalence and recognition of foreign degrees, check the “Recognition” section.
2. Job Offer
You must have a specific job offer from a German company that meets the following criteria:
- The employment period must be at least six months.
- The job should align with your qualifications. If your profession is regulated, you must have the necessary licenses at the time of your visa application.
- Your gross annual salary must be at least €45,300 (as of 2024).
3. Salary Exceptions for Bottleneck Professions
If you're employed in a shortage occupation, you may qualify for the EU Blue Card with a lower salary threshold of €41,041.80 (as of 2024), provided that the Federal Employment Agency has approved your employment. The Federal Ministry of the Interior and Community publishes these salary thresholds annually.
Bottleneck professions in Germany include:
- Managers in manufacturing, mining, construction, and distribution
- Information and communications technology service managers
- Professional services managers (e.g., childcare, health services, education)
- Academic professionals in STEM fields
- Medical doctors, veterinarians, dentists, and pharmacists
- Nursing and midwifery professionals
- Teachers and educators in various settings
For a detailed list of recognized bottleneck professions, you can find more information on the official websites.
By ensuring you meet these requirements, you can take the first steps toward obtaining an EU Blue Card and starting your professional journey in Germany!
