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GermanyWork permitsLast checked October 16, 2026

EU Blue Card

Blaue Karte EU, Section 18g Residence Act

The EU Blue Card is a German residence permit for qualified professionals taking up a job that matches their qualification and meets a minimum salary. Most applicants need a German or recognised or comparable foreign university degree, but IT specialists can qualify through experience. You apply for a national (D) visa at a German mission, then get the Blue Card from the local foreigners authority in Germany. It can lead to a permanent settlement permit after 21 to 27 months.

See requirements ↓

Life in Germany

Money

3

Currency

Euro

EUR

Euro

Cost of living

81

Price level · US = 100

World Bank price levels, 2025

Tax

14–45%

Income tax (national)

VAT 19%

Basic allowance EUR 12,348; 42% from EUR 69,879 and 45% above EUR 277,825 (single); solidarity surcharge of 5.5% of the tax for high earners and optional church tax.

Official rates, 2026 · headline only

Living

1

Happiness

6.9

#16 of 145 countries

World Happiness Report 2025

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Who it’s for

University graduates (or equivalent tertiary graduates) and experienced IT specialists with a German job offer of at least 6 months paying at least the Blue Card salary threshold.

Eligibility

  • Qualification

    You need a German degree, a recognised foreign degree, or a foreign degree comparable to a German one.

    • A tertiary programme of at least 3 years at ISCED or EQF level 6 can also count
    Official wording

    You need a German degree, a recognised foreign degree, or a foreign degree comparable to a German one. A tertiary programme of at least 3 years at ISCED or EQF level 6 can also count.

  • Concrete job offer

    You need a specific job offer in Germany that matches your qualification.

    6 months

    Job offer length

    Official wording

    You need a specific job offer in Germany that matches your qualification and lasts at least 6 months.

  • Standard salary threshold 2026Standard

    Your gross annual salary must reach the standard threshold for 2026.

    EUR 50,700

    Minimum gross salary (standard)

    2026
    • Equals 50% of the pension insurance contribution ceiling
    • Federal Employment Agency approval is not needed at this level
    Official wording

    The gross annual salary must be at least 50,700 EUR in 2026 (50% of the pension insurance contribution ceiling). Federal Employment Agency approval is not needed at this level.

A sneak peek at what's inside

  • Next requirementReduced salary threshold 2026
  • Document checklistOnline visa application (Consular Services Portal)
  • FeesNational (D) visa

The full requirements are for members

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  • 5 more requirements
  • 12 documents
  • 4 fees
  • 7 steps
  • Processing times and conditions
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