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Residence & Migration

Apply for an EU Blue Card

Residence permit for highly qualified professionals from non-EU countries who hold a recognized university degree and have an employment contract.

Processing: approx. 2 months
Success rate: 85.0 %

How to proceed

  1. 1

    Check whether the degree is recognized

    Check with the "anabin" database or the relevant accreditation offices.

  2. 2

    Secure an employment contract with adequate pay

    The minimum salary threshold is adjusted annually.

  3. 3

    Application at a diplomatic mission or immigration office

    Apply for a visa or residence permit.

Required documents

  • College degree, including recognitionMandatory
  • Employment ContractMandatory

Responsible authority

The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →

Fees

Varies by case

Processing time

approx. 2 months

Official: max. approx. 3 months

Online application

In person or by post

Common mistakes

  • • Foreign degree not recognized
  • • The employment contract specifies a salary below the minimum threshold

Common reasons for rejection

  • • Salary below the minimum threshold
  • • Degree not recognized as equivalent

You can usually file an objection against a rejection.

The essentials before applying

Who is eligible?

Graduates from non-EU countries with an employment contract that meets the minimum salary requirement.

Income limit

The minimum salary is adjusted annually; in 2024, it will be approximately €45,300 gross (approximately €41,000 for occupations facing labor shortages).

Processing time

Nationwide: approx. approx. 2 months

Success rate

approx. 85.0 % (estimate)

Most common mistakes

  • •Foreign degree not recognized
  • •The employment contract specifies a salary below the minimum threshold

Common reasons for rejection

  • •Salary below the minimum threshold
  • •Degree not recognized as equivalent

Alternatives

  • Check related services in the application assistant
  • Use social counselling before applying

If rejected

File a written objection within 30 days – with reasons why the decision is wrong and any missing evidence.

Related services

Residence permit for employment

For non-academic professionals

Questions & Answers

How quickly can a residence permit be obtained with a Blue Card?▼

With B1-level German proficiency after 21 months; otherwise after 33 months.

Read more