How to obtain the EU Blue Card to work in Germany

2023-07-28
in Career Development, Diversity

The EU Blue Card is a work-related visa that allows highly skilled workers from outside the European Union to live and work in Germany. It is a popular option for individuals who are seeking to pursue their careers in Germany, given the country’s strong economy and thriving job market. In this article, we will outline all the necessary steps involved in obtaining the EU Blue Card in Germany.

Applying process from your home country

The first step in obtaining the EU Blue Card is to ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria. To be eligible, you must have a university degree or comparable qualification, and you must have a job offer from a German employer that pays a salary of at least €55,200 per year. For certain fields, such as mathematics, computer science, and engineering, the minimum salary requirement is lower at €43,056 per year. Additionally, your job offer must be in a field that corresponds to your qualifications.

Once you have confirmed your eligibility, you can begin the application process. The first step is to apply for a visa from the German embassy or consulate in your home country. You will need to provide a variety of documents, including your passport, your job contract, proof of your qualifications, and evidence of your financial means to support yourself while in Germany. You will also need to provide proof of health insurance.

After you arrive in Germany

Once you are in Germany, you must apply for a residence permit within 90 days of your arrival. You will need to provide additional documentation, including your visa, your job contract, and proof of health insurance. You will also need to provide proof of your address in Germany, such as a rental agreement or a letter from your landlord.

Once your application is processed, you will receive your EU Blue Card, which is valid for up to four years. You can renew your card if you continue to meet the eligibility criteria, and after 33 months, you can apply for a permanent residence permit.

It is important to note that the application process for the EU Blue Card can be lengthy and complex. We recommend you begin the application process well in advance of your intended start date of employment. Additionally, you may want to consider hiring an immigration lawyer to help guide you through the process.

Document checklist for Germany EU Blue Card application

When submitting your application for a German EU Blue Card, you will need the following documents:

Your passport. Your passport must contain the relevant entry visa or stamp, proving you have entered Germany legally.
Recent biometric picture.
Application form for a residence permit. You have to complete this form entirely and sign it at the end. You can download the form from the website of your local Immigration Authority or pick it up in person.
Your work contract or offer. You have to submit the original work contract/offer, stating your position in the company and exact salary.
Your academic qualifications. You have to submit your original certificate or degree along with your application.
Proof of health insurance. You must have German health insurance; health insurance from abroad is not accepted.
Proof your primary residence is in Germany. You must register your address at the local residents’ registration office and submit the certificate of residence registration.
Marriage or birth certificate/s, as relevant. If your family is coming with you.

Depending on your specific case and the Ausländerbehörde in which you submit your application, you may be required to submit additional documents. Confirm with the relevant authorities or your immigration lawyers before finalizing your application.

Obtaining the EU Blue Card in Germany can be a great opportunity for highly skilled workers from outside the European Union to pursue their careers in a thriving economy. By carefully following the application process and ensuring that you meet the eligibility criteria, you can increase your chances of a successful application and a smooth transition to life and work in Germany. If you don’t match the eligibility criterias for the EU Blue Card, there are other work-related visas that you can apply. There is another article on our blog exploring them, you can check it out by clicking here.

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