Step 29 of 30
After Graduation
Graduation & Career
Updated 2026-01EU Blue Card
Highly-skilled work permit — fast track to permanent residence.
Your progress on this step0 / 6
The EU Blue Card is Germany's residence permit for highly qualified workers. In 2026 the general salary threshold is €48,300 gross/year and the shortage-occupation threshold is €43,759.80 (STEM, IT, medicine and select others). Under 30 graduates from a German university also qualify at the shortage threshold.
Why it's needed
Fast lane to permanent residence (21 months with B1 German, 27 with A1) and family reunion is straightforward.
Who requires this
Non-EU workers with a recognised degree and a qualifying job offer.
- Recognised university degree (German or foreign, verified via anabin)
- Employment contract meeting the salary threshold
- Contract duration at least 6 months
Click a document to open its official website.
- Passport
- Degree certificate + transcript
- Employment contract
- Job description / salary confirmation
- Health insurance
- Meldebescheinigung
- Application form + biometric photo
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- Verify degree recognition on anabin.kmk.org
- Sign a qualifying contract
- Book appointment at the Ausländerbehörde
- Submit all documents
- Pay €100 fee
- Receive Blue Card in 4–12 weeks