Last updated 20 September 2026, 00:00 (UTC+0)
EU Blue Card D Germany
Blaue Karte EU
EU Blue Card — what you need to know
The EU Blue Card is intended for highly qualified professionals who have received a job offer in Germany with a salary not lower than the established threshold. Higher education is required or, in cases prescribed by law, proven professional experience. Some professions require recognition of qualifications or obtaining a work license in Germany.
A job offer or contract for at least 6 months
For IT professionals: 3 years of professional experience within the past 7 years
A higher education qualification or at least 5 years of equivalent professional experience is required
Salary: from €50,700 gross per year in 2026 (reduced threshold for shortage occupations: €45,934.20 gross per year)
The card is issued for a maximum of 4 years
Process: job offer from a German employer → apply for a national visa (D) at the embassy → entry → apply for a Blue Card at the local foreigners' authority
The permit is not cancelled immediately if employment is lost
Relocation for work to another EU country after 12 months
Relocation with family, and family members are allowed to work
Permanent settlement is available after 27 months of qualifying employment and pension contributions with German at level A1, or after 21 months with German at level B1
Eligible individuals:
- Expert
- Professional
- Medical employee
- IT expert
How does this visa work?
Don’t postpone the application
The visa is processed from 7 days to 20 days. Many people contact us 3–5 days before their trip, so start the process in advance
How can you prove the basis for the visa?
They clarify the purpose of the visit and future activities in the country
What must be prepared?
Basic package — always required, regardless of the application conditions
What additional documents may be required?
Documents required vary depending on individual circumstances, specific visa conditions, the place, and the method of application.
*Foreign official documents must be apostilled and legalized in accordance with the regulations of the country whose consular or diplomatic mission they are being submitted to. Additionally, they must be accompanied by a certified translation into the official language of that country or into English, unless otherwise specified by the mission's requirements.
**Prior to submitting the documents, it is strongly advised to verify the specific procedures and requirements with the relevant mission.
Are you eligible for this visa?
Clear purposes of the visit and documents confirming them, in accordance with the visa conditions.
The applicant does not pose a threat to public order, internal security, public health or international relations of one or more member states.
Insurance policy for the entire period of stay, meeting the minimum mandatory or recommended requirements for the country.
Valid permanent resident status or proof thereof; all preliminary procedures for visa application have been completed.
Official visa information
English international
Category code
D
Type of visa
National visa
Category
EU blue card