What Is the EU Blue Card?
The EU Blue Card is an EU‑wide work‑and‑residence permit for highly qualified
non‑EU nationals. It is active in 25 of the 27 EU Member States
(Denmark and Ireland opted out). The updated Blue Card Directive (EU) 2021/1883
was implemented by November 2023.
- Mobility — work and live in any participating EU country.
- Fast‑track permanent residency — after 33 months (or 21 months with B1).
- Family reunification — bring your spouse and children.
- Intra‑EU mobility — move to a second Member State after 12 months.
EU Blue Card Salary Thresholds 2026
The salary must meet or exceed the threshold set by the country. The EU directive sets a floor,
but Member States can set higher amounts.
Germany (2026)
- General threshold: €50,700 gross per year
- Shortage occupations (STEM, IT, healthcare): €45,934.20
- Applicants over 45: €55,770
Other Key Countries (2026)
- France: €59,373
- Spain: €41,000
- Luxembourg: €65,652
- Belgium: €68,815 (senior) / €4,748/month (junior)
- Netherlands: €5,942 (reduced threshold)
Thresholds are updated annually. Always check the official immigration website of your target country.
EU Blue Card Eligibility Requirements
- Non‑EU nationality
- Higher education degree (at least 3 years of study)
- Job offer from an employer in the EU country
- Salary threshold met
- Work experience may substitute for a degree in some cases
Nationals of the US, UK, Canada, and Australia can enter Germany without a visa
and apply for the Blue Card after arrival.
EU Blue Card Countries 2026
The Blue Card is available in 25 EU Member States. Denmark and Ireland have opted out.
Top destinations:
🇩🇪 Germany — largest issuer
🇳🇱 Netherlands — strong tech sector
🇫🇷 France — diverse opportunities
🇸🇪 Sweden — growing demand
🇪🇸 Spain — attractive lifestyle
🇱🇺 Luxembourg — high salaries
🇧🇪 Belgium — EU capital
🇦🇹 Austria — central location
Other participating countries: Italy, Poland, Portugal, Greece, Czech Republic, Hungary, and more.
How to Apply for an EU Blue Card
- Secure a job offer from an employer in the EU.
- Check eligibility — degree and salary.
- Submit visa application at the embassy/consulate.
- Gather documents — passport, degree, contract, photos, forms.
- Pay the fee (approx. €100–€140).
- Wait for processing (varies by country).
- Enter the country and start work.
In some countries (e.g., Poland), applications are submitted online via dedicated portals.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the EU Blue Card?
- The EU Blue Card is a work‑and‑residence permit for highly qualified non‑EU nationals, valid in 25 EU countries.
- What is the EU Blue Card salary threshold for 2026?
- The general threshold is €50,700. For shortage occupations, it's €45,934.20. Country variations apply.
- Which countries issue the EU Blue Card?
- 25 EU Member States (not Denmark or Ireland). Top issuers: Germany, Netherlands, France, Sweden, Spain.
- How long does it take to get permanent residency?
- 33 months (or 21 months with B1 language skills). After 5 years, you can apply for EU long‑term resident status.
- Can I bring my family?
- Yes. Spouses and dependent children can join and receive work permits.
- Do I need a job offer?
- Yes. A valid employment contract or binding job offer is mandatory.