EU Blue Card guide for 2026
The EU Blue Card is a work and residence permit for highly qualified non-EU professionals. It offers a faster path to permanent residence and easier family reunification than most work permits.
Who can get an EU Blue Card?
- A university degree (or, in some countries and for IT roles, several years of relevant professional experience instead).
- A job offer or contract in an EU country that issues Blue Cards, usually for at least six months.
- A salary above the country's threshold, which each country sets every year.
The Blue Card is available in EU member states except Denmark and Ireland, which use their own national schemes.
Germany: 2026 salary thresholds
| Category | Minimum gross salary per year |
|---|---|
| Standard | €50,700 |
| Shortage occupations (for example IT, engineering, medicine, nursing) and recent graduates | €45,934.20 |
Other countries set their own amounts. Check the official immigration website of the country where your employer is based.
IT professionals without a degree
Germany allows IT specialists without a university degree to qualify if they have at least three years of relevant professional experience within the last seven years and meet the salary threshold. See our IT jobs in Europe guide.
Benefits of the Blue Card
- Your spouse and children can usually join you, and your spouse can usually work.
- In Germany, permanent residence is possible after 27 months, or 21 months with German at B1 level.
- After a period of living in one EU country, you can move more easily to another EU country to work.
How to apply
- Get a qualifying job offer.
- Check that your degree is recognised; in Germany, use the anabin database or get a statement of comparability.
- Apply for a national visa at the embassy in your country, then receive the Blue Card after arrival.
Frequently asked questions
What is the EU Blue Card salary for Germany in 2026?
€50,700 gross per year as standard, and €45,934.20 for shortage occupations and recent graduates.
Can I get an EU Blue Card without a degree?
Generally a degree is needed. Some countries, including Germany, accept IT professionals without a degree if they have at least three years of relevant experience within the last seven years.
How fast can a Blue Card holder get permanent residence?
In Germany, after 27 months, or 21 months with German language skills at B1 level. Other countries have their own rules.
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