Introduction:
The German Blue Card is a residence and work permit that allows highly qualified non-EU citizens to work in Germany, which is a highly sought-after destination for job-seekers around the world. With the Blue Card, you can work in Germany for up to four years, and in some cases, you can even extend it indefinitely. This article aims to provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to obtain a German Blue Card.
Who is eligible for a German Blue Card?
The German Blue Card is intended for highly skilled non-EU citizens who meet the following criteria:
– They have a degree from a recognized university or other higher education institution.
– They have a job offer or contract in Germany that pays them at least €56,800 per year (or €44,304 per year for some professions in high demand) or €44,304 per year for applicants in some professions such as mathematicians, engineers, IT specialists, and natural scientists.
– They have their qualifications recognized by the competent authority in Germany.
How to apply for a German Blue Card?
Step 1: Find a job in Germany
Before applying for a German Blue Card, you need to have a job offer or contract in Germany. You can look for job openings in Germany on various job portals like LinkedIn, Xing, Indeed and many more.
Step 2: Check your eligibility
The next step is to check if you are eligible to apply for a German Blue Card. As mentioned earlier, to apply for the Blue Card, you need to have a degree from a recognized university, a job offer or contract in Germany and your qualifications recognized by the competent authority in Germany.
Step 3: Apply for a visa
Once you have a job offer or contract and have checked your eligibility, the next step is to apply for a visa. Depending on your country of origin, you may need to apply for a visa before you can enter Germany. You can apply for a visa at the German embassy or consulate in your country of origin.
Step 4: Apply for a German Blue Card
Once you are in Germany, you can apply for a German Blue Card at the local immigration office in the city where you are residing. You will need to submit the following documents:
– Your passport and visa.
– Proof of your qualifications.
– Proof of your job offer or contract.
– Proof that your job meets the minimum salary requirement.
– Health insurance.
The Blue Card application process takes about four to six weeks. If your application is successful, you will be issued a German Blue Card, which is valid for four years.
FAQs about the German Blue Card:
1. What is the minimum salary requirement for a German Blue Card?
The minimum salary requirement for a German Blue Card is €56,800 per year (or €44,304 per year for some professions in high demand) or €44,304 per year for applicants in some professions such as mathematicians, engineers, IT specialists, and natural scientists.
2. Can I bring my family with me on a German Blue Card?
Yes, you can bring your spouse and children with you on a German Blue Card. Your spouse will also be eligible to work in Germany.
3. Can I change my job on a German Blue Card?
Yes, you can change your job on a German Blue Card, but you need to inform the local immigration office within two weeks of starting the new job.
4. Can I apply for permanent residency on a German Blue Card?
Yes, after working and living in Germany for two years on a German Blue Card, you can apply for permanent residency.
5. Can I study on a German Blue Card?
Yes, you can study on a German Blue Card, but you need to inform the local immigration office if you are planning to study and obtain approval.
Conclusion:
The German Blue Card is an excellent opportunity for highly skilled non-EU citizens to work and live in Germany. It provides many benefits and allows you to bring your family with you. However, you need to meet the minimum salary requirement and have your qualifications recognized by the competent authority in Germany before you can apply for a Blue Card. If you are considering applying for a German Blue Card, make sure to do your research and gather all the necessary documents to make the application process smoother.