Germany is competing globally for highly qualified talent—and the EU Blue Card has become one of its most attractive immigration pathways. Since the major reform of the law in November 2023, obtaining a Blue Card has become easier for many professionals, particularly those working in technology, healthcare, engineering, and other shortage occupations. But with legal reforms come plenty of questions. How difficult is the application process? Do you need to speak German? Can your spouse work? What if you don't have a university degree? We spoke with the experienced immigration lawyer Alexander von Engelhardt to answer the questions international professionals ask most frequently.
The new regulations on the Blue Card EU came into effect on November 1, 2023 and is incorporated into the Residence Act into the new §18g AufenthG. The advantages of a Blue Card in contrast to a "normal" employment permit are:
The EU Blue Card will be usually issued for a maximum of four years. But if the employment contract says less than four years of employment you will get a permit for the duration of your employment. Germany is so eager to have you already in, they want to make sure you remain.
No German whatsoever is acutally required for a Blue Card – by word of immigration law. Admittedly, it will help in getting around in Germany on a practical basis. Some employers might be shy to hire someone who doesn't speak the local language. Some professions, however, require certain language abilities. As an example, an approbation requires C1 German. This requirement sort of "adjusts" immigration law. In this situation, a physician will not get a residence to practice medicine because his German language abilities do not meet the requirement of professional law. Period. There are no exceptions to this fact but there are legal workarounds. Best book a consultation!
The new law brings following new facilitations for:
Professions with a strong shortage (bottleneck professions), such are:
You will only need a reduced salary of € 3,306,90 and meet the requirements of your profession, then you are entitled to a little Blue Card.
Yes, when you have not graduated from a university, you will as a rule never be eligible for a Blue Card in Germany! There is a loophole when you can demonstrate that your profession belongs to the so-called "bottleneck professions" and have at least three years of comparable professional experience. This experience has to have been obtained during the last seven years. Further, your qualification is to be comparable to a university degree. Then you can exceptionally get a Blue Card. You can already qualify under the category "bottleneck professions". Though the German lawmaker wants to reduce the requirements, you still feel the German angst that you must be qualified by training and not by experience alone.
Yes, this has changed. Your "better half" may enter with a residence from any other EU country without a special entry visa. If your spouse is still at home, this privilege is not applicable.
A successful application for family reunion to you as a Blue Card holder does not require your spouse to have A1 in German. I trust you all know of the practical advantages. Nevertheless, permanent residency will still require B1 German and the whole jazz as normal for permanent residency!
Sure, your spouse will be able to work in Germany without any further restrictions. She can work in any profession from scrubbing floors at Lidl, or teaching at a university, to running a company — immigration does not care.
The Blue Card holder in Germany can have his or her parents or in-laws follow to Germany. The main requirement is that their financial livelihood and health insurance is secured either by themselves or you. If they are financially dependent on you, then it is a matter of discretion. It remains to be determined whether the office will apply discretion to their advantage or not.
Generally, you will be entitled after 3 years of employment under a Blue Card for a permanent residency – as a rule. Further, B1 will still be required.
Your spouse will also be eligible after three years, if
If your spouse wants permanent residency, then your spouse requires B1 and all the other requirements. Since you hold a Blue Card, your spouse is privileged that only three years and 36 months of pension precautions have to have been paid.
Alexander Baron von Engelhardt is the founder and managing director of his law firm, specialising in business immigration, skilled labour migration, immigration law, and company formation in Germany. After studying law at the prestigious Universities of Marburg and Göttingen, he completed his legal clerkship in Hanover and Prague. Upon his admission to the German Bar in 1997, he established his own practice, which has since been dedicated to advising international professionals, entrepreneurs, and companies on German immigration and business law.
Clear and Direct Communication
Speaking English is one thing—being fully understood is another. Alexander believes that clear, honest communication is the foundation of good legal advice. If the answer is "yes," he will say so. If the answer is "no," he will say that just as clearly.
He understands that such directness may feel unusual in some cultures, where a more indirect communication style is the norm. Please don't mistake this for bluntness or discourtesy. His goal is simply to ensure that you fully understand your legal situation and can make informed decisions.
Likewise, if saying "no" directly feels uncomfortable because of your cultural background, don't worry. Alexander appreciates that communication styles differ around the world and will always make an effort to understand what you mean, even if your answer is expressed more indirectly.
Clear communication creates clarity, saves time, and helps achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
