How to Navigate the EU Blue Card Application Process

What is the EU Blue Card?

The EU Blue Card is the European Union's work and residence permit for highly qualified non-EU nationals. Revised in 2024, the updated directive makes it easier than ever to live and work across the EU.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for an EU Blue Card in 2026, you need:

1. A Valid Job Offer or Employment Contract

• The contract must be for at least 6 months (reduced from 12 months under the old rules)
• It must be for a qualified position matching your degree or professional experience
• The salary must meet the minimum threshold (varies by country)

2. Higher Education Qualifications

You need one of the following:

• A university degree (at least 3 years of study)
• NEW in 2024: 3+ years of relevant professional experience in specific sectors (IT, engineering, etc.)

3. Minimum Salary Threshold

The salary must be at least 1.0x the average gross annual salary in the host country (reduced from 1.5x). For shortage occupations, it's 0.8x.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Secure a Job Offer (2-8 weeks)

Browse positions on platforms like EuroTalent — we currently list over 2,100 jobs across 45+ companies in Europe. Many employers are experienced with Blue Card sponsorship.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents (1-2 weeks)

You'll typically need:

• Valid passport (minimum 15 months remaining)
• Degree certificate with apostille/legalization
• Employment contract or binding job offer
• Proof of health insurance
• Passport photos (biometric)
• Completed application form

Step 3: Submit Your Application (Varies)

Depending on your nationality, you may apply:

• From your home country: At the German/French/etc. embassy or consulate
• Within the EU: If you already hold a valid residence permit

Step 4: Wait for Processing (2-8 weeks)

Processing times vary significantly:

• Germany: 2-4 weeks (fastest in the EU)
• France: 4-6 weeks
• Netherlands: 2-4 weeks (via IND)
• Spain: 4-8 weeks
• Italy: 6-12 weeks

Step 5: Receive Your Blue Card

Your Blue Card is typically valid for the duration of your employment contract + 3 months, up to a maximum of 4 years.

Key Benefits of the 2024 Blue Card Revision

1. Intra-EU Mobility

After 12 months (down from 18), you can move to another EU country with a simplified procedure. No need to start from scratch.

2. Family Reunification

Your spouse receives a work permit immediately — no waiting period, no labor market test.

3. Path to Permanent Residency

After 3 years with a Blue Card (or 2 years with B1-level language skills), you can apply for EU long-term resident status.

4. Job Change Flexibility

You can change employers without losing your Blue Card — just notify the authorities within 30 days.

Tips for a Successful Application

1. Start early: Begin document gathering before you have a job offer
2. Get translations: Sworn translations of your degree are usually required
3. Check recognition: Verify your degree is recognized via anabin.de (Germany) or equivalent databases
4. Ask your employer: Many large companies (like those on EuroTalent) have relocation teams
5. Consider a lawyer: For complex cases, immigration lawyers can save weeks of frustration

Countries That Don't Participate

Note that Denmark and Ireland have opted out of the EU Blue Card directive. They have their own work permit schemes.

Looking for Blue Card-eligible positions? Browse our job listings — filter by visa sponsorship to find employers who support Blue Card applications.