New EU Blue Card in Germany - New Salary Limits and Changes to EU Blue Card Eligibility

New Salary Limits and Changes to EU Blue Card Eligibility

As of November 18, 2023, significant updates have been made to the EU Blue Card and labor migration standards in Germany. The German government, aligning with Directive (EU) 2021/1883, has introduced modifications, including lower salary limits for both regular and bottleneck occupations.

Minimum Salary for Bottleneck Occupations and New Entrants

The minimum salary for bottleneck occupations and individuals entering the labor market has been set at 45.3% of the annual pension insurance valuation limit. Anticipated to be €39,682.80 in 2023, this threshold applies to those who have obtained a university degree within the last three years, allowing them to qualify for the EU Blue Card if their salary meets the minimum requirement for their profession.

Minimum Salary for Other Professions

For all other professions, the minimum salary is established at 50% of the annual pension insurance assessment limit, approximately €43,800 in 2023.

Eligibility for IT Specialists Without a University Degree

Under the revised criteria, IT specialists without a university degree but possessing equivalent professional experience may now be eligible for an EU Blue Card.

Expansion of Bottleneck Occupations

The list of bottleneck occupations has undergone expansion, encompassing roles such as:

• Manager for production, mining, construction, or sales
• Information and Communications Technology Services Manager
• Veterinarians
• And more

Mobility and Family Reunification

EU Blue Card holders from another EU member state now enjoy the right to short- and long-term mobility in Germany. After a minimum of 12 months, long-term residence in Germany can be acquired without a visa, albeit requiring application for a German EU Blue Card at this juncture. The new regulations also facilitate family reunification for EU Blue Card holders.

Simplified Process for Professionals

In essence, these changes are designed to streamline the immigration process for professionals possessing practical knowledge and professional training seeking to relocate to Germany. Moreover, more lenient criteria have been instituted for professional drivers from third countries.