Blue Card Work visa Germany

Germany’s Blue Card, an EU-wide work visa, offers many opportunities for highly skilled professionals who want to live and work in Germany. This document gives an overview of both the Blue Card visa and the application process.

What is the Blue Card?

The Blue Card is a full time work visa that allows highly skilled, third-country national (non-EU) professionals to live and work in Germany for up to four years. This card can be used to work in Germany in the skilled professions, including IT, engineering, finance, science, and media.

Who is Eligible for the Blue Card?

The Blue Card is designed for talented individuals from outside of the EU/EEA, who have the following qualifications:

• • A recognized university degree

• • Proof of professional experience

• • A job offer with a minimum salary of €49,600 per year (this amount is lower in some states)

• • Proof of language proficiency

• • Health insurance

What is the Process for Applying for the Blue Card?

The process for obtaining a Blue Card is quite simple. Here are the steps to follow:

1. 1. Find a job in Germany that meets the criteria of the Blue Card program. This includes minimum salary requirements and that the job must require a recognised university degree.

1. 1. Gather the necessary documents required for the application:
      • • Passport

       

      • • Proof of academic qualifications and professional experience

       

      • • Certificate confirming German language skills (level B1/B2 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages)

       

      • • Proof of health insurance

       

      • • Job contract or work contract

       

       

1. 1. Submit the application. This can be done either online, or in person at a German embassy or embassy in your home country.

1. 1. Wait for processing. The application can take several weeks, depending on the authorities’ processing times.

1. 1. Receive your Blue Card and begin your job in Germany!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How long is the Blue Card valid for?

The Blue Card is valid for up to four years. After that, it can be renewed for another four years, provided the holder meets the employment and/or residency criteria.

Q. Do I need a work permit to work in Germany?

No. The Blue Card does not require a work permit and is the only visa available to highly skilled foreign nationals outside the EU/EEA.

Q. How much does it cost to apply for the Blue Card?

It can cost around €110 to apply for the Blue Card.

Q. Are there any exceptions to the Blue Card salary requirements?

Yes, in some cases the minimum salary requirements could be lower, depending on the state. Research the requirements for the state in which you want to work.

Conclusion

Germany’s Blue Card is an excellent opportunity for highly skilled professionals from outside of the EU/EEA to work in Germany. The application process is relatively straightforward and can take up to several weeks to complete. The Blue Card comes with a number of benefits, such as the ability to live and work in Germany for up to four years and the potential for renewal after that period. If you meet the necessary qualifications and have a job offer with a minimum salary of €49,600 per year (or lower, depending on the state), then the Blue Card is an excellent pathway to working in Germany.