Months of employment
As a rule, the specific job offer or employment contract must cover a period of at least six months.
Complex requirements. A clear process.
The EU Blue Card is a residence permit for qualified employees from third countries. The key requirements are a suitable qualification, a job offer appropriate to that qualification and the applicable salary threshold.
Standard salary threshold for 2026
Minimum gross annual salary for the standard EU Blue Card in calendar year 2026.
Lower threshold for 2026
For certain shortage occupations and career starters; approval from the Federal Employment Agency is generally required.
SERVICES
What we assess and guide you through
We combine legal precision with a clear and transparent approach.
QUALIFICATIONS
Degree and recognition
Comparability of a university or other tertiary qualification, as well as special routes available to certain IT professionals.
EMPLOYMENT
Employment contract and role
Minimum duration, connection between the role and the qualification, any required professional licence and the applicable salary threshold.
ENTRY
Visa procedure
Document checklist, application strategy and communication throughout the procedure before entering Germany.
RESIDENCE
Applying in Germany
Support in dealings with the competent immigration authority and review of any existing residence permit.
MOBILITY
Changing employers
Assessment of notification requirements and review by the authority during the first twelve months of employment.
LONG-TERM PROSPECTS
Settlement and family
Assessment of facilitated routes to a settlement permit and family reunification.
OUR APPROACH
The application process
Clear priorities, transparent communication and a strategy tailored to your circumstances.
Arrange an initial consultation →- 01
Check the requirements
Your qualifications, role, contract, salary and personal circumstances are brought together in one comprehensive assessment.
- 02
Prepare the documents
Supporting documents are organised, recognition issues are clarified and the correct application route is determined.
- 03
Apply for a visa or residence permit
Depending on your circumstances, we guide the procedure before the German mission abroad or the competent immigration authority.
ANNUAL UPDATE
The salary thresholds apply for 2026
The figures change every calendar year. The current threshold must be checked before publication and before advice is provided in each individual matter.
Official federal government portal →Frequently asked questions
What clients want to know
What qualification is required?
Eligible qualifications include, in particular, a recognised or comparable university degree or certain tertiary educational qualifications. Under strict conditions, IT professionals may also qualify on the basis of relevant professional experience.
May I change employers?
Prior approval from the immigration authority is generally not required to change employers. If the change occurs during the first twelve months of employment, the competent immigration authority must be informed of the new job. It may suspend the change for up to 30 days and reject it if the new employment no longer meets the EU Blue Card requirements.
When can I obtain a settlement permit?
On application, generally after 27 months of qualifying employment with German at level A1; with level B1, after 21 months. Pension insurance contributions or comparable provision and all other statutory requirements must also be met.
Personal initial consultation
Your matter deserves a clear next step.
Legal information last updated on 16 August 2026. This general information does not replace individual legal advice. The applicable law and the competent authority’s decision remain decisive.