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Long-stay visas (Type D)

German EU Blue Card

The EU-wide residence permit for university graduates with a qualifying job offer above a set salary threshold, with a fast track to settlement.

Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
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Under review — check current rules

EU Blue Card salary thresholds vary by year and source: the Federal Foreign Office FAQ cited approx. €56,400 general / €43,992 shortage, while a 2026-specific Make-it-in-Germany result cited approx. €50,700 general and €45,934.20 shortage/new-entrant. These figures conflict and were not confirmed via a single authoritative fetch (make-it-in-germany blocks automated fetches). Reverify the exact current-year thresholds and the settlement-permit month counts (27/21) before publishing.

Important information

Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Germany government website before you apply.
On this page
Issued by
German mission abroad (entry visa), Blue Card issued by the Ausländerbehörde
Legal basis
Section 18g Residence Act (EU Directive 2021/1883)
Core requirement
University degree + qualifying job at/above the salary threshold
Salary threshold
Annual gross salary threshold (lower for shortage occupations and new entrants)
Figures change yearly; verify current amounts before relying on them
Settlement
Permanent settlement possible after 27 months, or 21 months with German at B1
Reduced-language timelines apply; confirm current rule

Who it's for

  • University graduates from outside the EU with a recognised or comparable degree
  • Professionals with a German job offer meeting the salary threshold
  • Shortage-occupation specialists (IT, engineering, sciences, medicine) who benefit from the lower threshold
  • Recent graduates / new entrants to the labour market

Requirements

  • A university degree recognised or comparable to a German degree (or, in IT, recognised professional experience in defined cases)
  • An employment contract or binding job offer, generally of at least six months
  • Gross annual salary at or above the applicable threshold (lower for shortage occupations/new entrants)
  • In regulated professions, permission to practise
  • Valid passport

What you can do

  • Work for your employer in the qualified position
  • Bring your spouse and children, who gain immediate labour-market access
  • Move to another EU state under Blue Card mobility rules after a qualifying period
  • Reach permanent settlement faster than most other routes

How to apply

Secure a job offer meeting the salary threshold and confirm your degree is recognised/comparable (anabin/ZAB).

Apply for a national (category D) visa 'for the purpose of taking up employment / EU Blue Card' at the German mission abroad if you require a visa to enter.

After arrival, register your address and apply for the EU Blue Card at the local foreigners' authority.

Documents

  • Valid passport and biometric photos
  • University degree certificate plus recognition/comparability evidence
  • Employment contract or binding job offer stating the salary
  • Completed visa application form
  • Proof of health insurance

Frequently asked questions

  • You must meet an annually set gross salary threshold, with a lower threshold for shortage occupations and for recent graduates/new entrants. Because these figures are revised each year and are tied to the pension contribution ceiling, check the current amount on the official sources before applying.

Official sources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.

Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.

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