Germany EU Blue Card (2026): eligibility, cost and timeline
The EU Blue Card is a residence permit for university-qualified professionals with a qualifying job offer above a salary threshold. Thresholds are set yearly; check the official page.
Written by AlternateVisa editorial team · Reviewed by Dipika S, Director, Innovexsis Consulting LLP (not a licensed immigration adviser)
Last verified 2026-10-23 · against Make it in Germany — Opportunity Card · How we check facts
Quick facts
| Route type | work |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Recognised university degree, or IT professionals with qualifying experience; Job offer in Germany matching your qualification; Salary at or above the yearly threshold |
| Typical timeline | Issued for the length of the contract plus 3 months, up to 4 years. |
| Official page | https://www.make-it-in-germany.com/en/visa-residence/types/eu-blue-card |
Steps
- Get a job offer and check the salary threshold.
- Confirm degree recognition (anabin/ZAB).
- Apply for the visa at the German mission.
- Apply for the Blue Card at the local foreigners' office after arrival.
Costs
| Item | Amount | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Government application fee | €75 (national visa) | https://digital.diplo.de/visa |
| Salary threshold | €50,700 gross/year (2026); €45,934.20 for shortage occupations and recent graduates | https://www.make-it-in-germany.com/fileadmin/1_Rebrush_2022/a_Fachkraefte/PDF-Dateien/3_Visum_u_Aufenthalt/Visagrafik_EN/Lebensunterhaltssicherung_Uebersicht_EN.pdf |
Common refusal reasons
- Salary below the threshold
- Degree not recognised or job doesn't match it
- Missing or inconsistent documents
Who should not use this route
- People without a job offer
- Jobs below the salary threshold
Compare with
Official sources
Next step
Add up your costs with the visa cost calculator, then get your evidence checked with a Human Evidence Review.
AlternateVisa is an information platform operated by Innovexsis Consulting LLP. It is not a law firm and does not give legal advice. Check official sources and a licensed professional before acting.