Your Pathway to a High-Skilled Career in Europe
The EU Blue Card is one of Germany’s most attractive residence options for highly qualified professionals. It offers skilled non-EU citizens the opportunity to live and work in Germany while enjoying fast-tracked access to permanent residency and enhanced mobility across the European Union.
What is the EU Blue Card?
The EU Blue Card is a special residence permit under Section 18g of the German Residence Act (AufenthG). It is designed for highly qualified professionals with a recognized university degree and a confirmed job offer from a German employer.
As of 2025, the minimum salary threshold is €48,300 per year, with lower thresholds applying for shortage occupations such as IT, engineering, and healthcare — €43,759.80 per year (as of 2025).
The Blue Card not only allows you to work in Germany but also grants you and your family many rights similar to those of German citizens, including access to social benefits and permanent settlement opportunities.
Key Benefits of the EU Blue Card
- Fast Track to Permanent Residence – Become eligible for a Settlement Permit after just 33 months, or 21 months with B1-level German proficiency.
- Higher Earning Potential – Competitive salary thresholds ensure well-compensated, qualified employment.
- Work and Live Anywhere in the EU – Enjoy greater freedom to move and work within other EU countries after 18 months.
- Bring Your Family – Spouses and dependents can join you easily with the right to work and study.
- Switch Employers with Ease – Change jobs within your qualified field after the initial two-year employment period.
- Equal Benefits – Access social security, healthcare, and other benefits comparable to German citizens.
Eligibility Criteria (2025)
- To qualify for an EU Blue Card in Germany, you must meet the following requirements:
- Recognized University Degree
Your academic qualification must be recognized or comparable to a German university degree. - Valid Job Offer or Employment Contract
You must have a job offer from a German employer in a qualified profession.
- Minimum Salary Requirement
General professions: €48,300 per year (as of 2025). - Shortage occupations (IT, engineering, medicine, etc.): €43,759.80 per year (as of 2025).
- Health Insurance Coverage
Proof of valid German health insurance must be provided at the time of application. - Proof of Accommodation and Financial Stability
Evidence of a place to stay and financial means to support yourself and any dependents.
Documents Required
- Valid passport and biometric photos
- Completed EU Blue Card visa application form
- Employment contract or official job offer
- Degree recognition certificate (or comparability proof from ANABIN database)
- Health insurance proof valid for Germany
- Proof of salary meeting the required threshold
- Accommodation proof and financial means
- Police clearance certificate
- Visa fee payment (approximately €75)
After entering Germany, you must register your address and apply for the EU Blue Card residence permit at the local Foreigners’ Authority.
Germany Work Visa vs. EU Blue Card (2025)
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Confirm Degree Recognition
Verify your qualification using the ANABIN database or recognition authority. - Get a Qualified Job Offer
Secure an employment contract meeting the minimum salary requirement. - Apply for a Blue Card Visa
Submit your application and supporting documents at the German Embassy or Consulate. - Enter Germany & Register Address
Register your residence at the local Residents’ Registration Office. - Apply for the EU Blue Card Residence Permit
Complete the process at the local Foreigners’ Authority. - Start Your Career in Germany
Once approved, you can live, work, and build your future in Germany.
How Waymax Global Helps You
At Waymax Global, we simplify your journey toward obtaining an EU Blue Card and settling in Germany successfully.
Our Services Include:
- Eligibility & Profile Assessment – Evaluate your academic background and salary criteria.
- Recognition Support – Assistance with degree equivalence verification.
- Employer Coordination – Connect you with approved employers for Blue Card-eligible positions.
- End-to-End Documentation – Prepare and submit all embassy and immigration paperwork.
- Post-Arrival Support – Guidance for residence registration, health insurance, and family relocation.
At Waymax Global, we help you make your European dream a reality – one step at a time.