Germany: New EU Blue Card Rules in Force from November 18

CHANGE

Expanded list of shortage occupations

• Qualified workers in the following new occupations will be able to obtain an EU Blue Card with a lower salary threshold:
  • Information and communications technology service managers;
  • Professional services managers, such as child care or health services managers;
  • School and out-of-school teachers and educators;
  • Manufacturing, mining, construction, or distribution managers;
  • Veterinarians;
  • Dentists;
  • Pharmacists; and
  • Nursing or midwifery professionals.
• Individuals who obtained their degree in the three years prior to applying for an EU Blue Card will also benefit from the lowered salary threshold.

Additional workers will be able to benefit from a lower minimum salary that applies to shortage occupations (EUR 39,682.80 for 2023 and EUR 41,041.80 for 2024), and from advantages provided by the EU Blue Card such a faster path to permanent residency.

Improved family reunification rights

When family members of EU Blue Card holders who have already resided in another EU Member State apply for a German residence permit, EU Blue Card holders will be exempt from proving sufficient living space and the requirement to secure one’s livelihood.

It will be easier for EU Blue Card holders’ family members to live in Germany with the EU Blue Card holder, which should promote family unity and make for a better mobility experience.

Easier change of employer process

• Under the current law, EU Blue Card holders seeking to change employers or positions in the first two years of work must apply for an amendment of their labor market access. After two years, they can work for any employer and in any position.
• Under the changed rules, EU Blue Card holders will need to notify the immigration authorities about a change of employer and/or position if it occurs within the first 12 months of employment and immigration authorities will have 30 days to reject the application to change employers or positions.
• After working under an EU Blue Card for 12 months, EU Blue Card holders will be able to change employers and/or positions without notifying the immigration authorities.

EU Blue Card holders will have more flexibility to change employers and positions in Germany.