Are you weary of the exorbitant salary requirements and visa complications? Germany empathizes with your distress. They have recently simplified the process for skilled workers to obtain an EU Blue Card and commence their German voyage, a development that is causing significant disruptions in the global job market.
Check Also: Unskilled Jobs in Germany for Foreigners – Apply Now
What’s the big deal?
Consider the EU Blue Card as your golden ticket to residing and working in Germany (and potentially other EU countries as well!). However, it has been notoriously difficult to obtain until recently, due to the high salary requirements and the restricted list of eligible professions.
However, please retain your lederhosen, as the situation has just become significantly more straightforward.
Here are the lowdown Changes to the German Blue Card Policy:
1# Salary reduction: Bid farewell to those unattainable salary thresholds! The minimum earnings requirement has been substantially reduced, thereby enabling individuals with greater talent to qualify.
- It is necessary to earn a minimum of €45,300 in gross annual income. That is approximately 1.5 times the typical German salary.
- Even greater news for professions that are in high demand! The minimum salary in Germany is €41,041.80 if your talents are listed as a shortage occupation (e.g., healthcare, IT, engineering).
2# Increased employment opportunities: The eligibility criteria have been broadened, providing opportunities for individuals in fields such as engineering, IT, and healthcare. This implies that Germany is actively recruiting competent workers in these regions, which will enhance your likelihood of obtaining a Blue Card.
3# Graduation graduates exult! Regardless of your profession, you may obtain a Blue Card with an even lower salary (€41,041.80) if you have completed your university education within the past three years. This is an exceptional opportunity for recent graduates to commence their international endeavors in Germany.
4# IT experts sought: If you possess a minimum of three years of relevant professional experience in the IT sector, your IT expertise could qualify you for a Blue Card, even if you lack a university degree. This acknowledges the importance of practical experience and provides opportunities for talented IT professionals who may not have pursued a conventional academic path.
Less documentation, more “Prost!”Germany is simplifying the application procedure to allow you to spend more time exploring the charming Christmas markets and less time filling out forms. This results in a more efficient processing time and a more seamless experience for the applicants.
Benefits of Skilled Worker Jobs in Germany – Blue Cards Program
- Potential for Significant Salary Increase: Competitive salary arrangements are advantageous to skilled personnel who possess Blue Cards. The Blue Card is subject to specific compensation thresholds in Germany, which are €58,400 annually for the majority of professions and €45,552 for in-demand professions such as IT, engineering, and healthcare. This guarantees that Blue Card holders receive adequate compensation.
- Route to Permanent Residency: The Blue Card, which is also referred to as a settlement permit, offers a rapid pathway to permanent residency. Holders are eligible to petition for permanent residency after a mere 33 months, or 21 months if they achieve a specific level of German language proficiency (B1). This enables skilled workers to thoroughly integrate into German society and achieve long-term stability.
- Family Reunification and Visa Flexibility: Family reunification is simplified for Blue Card bearers. Spouses and children are eligible to join the Blue Card holder without any waiting periods, and they are permitted to work without restrictions, irrespective of their profession. This facilitates the transition and fosters a harmonious work-life balance for international laborers and their families.
- Access to Social Benefits: Blue Card recipients in Germany are entitled to the same social benefits as other German employees. This encompasses access to high-quality public healthcare, unemployment benefits, paid maternity and paternity leave, and pension contributions, all of which contribute to the long-term security of workers and their families.
- Prospects for Professional Development: Germany’s expert worker positions frequently offer opportunities for professional development and advancement. Blue Card holders are granted access to training, certifications, and skills development programs that improve their professional credentials. This can render the Blue Card a valuable asset for career advancement, both domestically and internationally.
- International Exposure and Networking: Germany is characterized by a dynamic international business environment, particularly in the fields of engineering, automotive, information technology, and biotechnology. The networking opportunities offered by Germany’s global companies and multinational organizations can be exploited by skilled workers to access cutting-edge technology and pursue additional career opportunities.
- Quality of Life and Stability: In terms of quality of life, Germany is highly regarded, with a particular emphasis on public safety, environmental integrity, and work-life balance. Blue Card holders are afforded extensive vacation and holiday entitlements that are generally more generous than those in other countries, as well as the opportunity to experience a high standard of living, excellent education and childcare options.
- Mobility within the European Union: After 18 months of holding a Blue Card in Germany, holders are eligible to apply for a comparable Blue Card in another EU country. This enables them to pursue career opportunities in other EU member states without the need to initiate a new visa procedure. This adaptability offers a distinctive advantage for career advancement within the European Union.
- Ease of Renewal and Reapplication: If skilled workers desire to continue working in Germany, the renewal process for Blue Cards is simple, allowing them to easily extend their stay. Furthermore, the Blue Card can be updated to reflect the new employment, provided that the person continues to satisfy the qualification and salary criteria, if they change jobs within Germany.
- Language Opportunities and Cultural Enrichment: Living in Germany provides numerous individuals with the opportunity to enhance their German language abilities and to immerse themselves in the country’s extensive cultural heritage. Although German proficiency is not initially required, the Blue Card program promotes language acquisition for the purpose of integration and assists employees in establishing a stronger connection to their local community.
Why is Germany doing this?
The answer is straightforward: they require your assistance. The shortage of qualified workers in Germany is a common issue in many countries. In order to stimulate their economy and preserve their innovative spirit, they are enthusiastic about enticing smart individuals.
Consequently, what are you awaiting? Ready to greet a new life in Deutschland? Dust off your German dictionary, polish up your CV, and say “Hallo.”
References
- https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/en/-/2248702
- https://www.bundesregierung.de/breg-en/news/skilled-immigration-2264340.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Who is eligible for the Blue Card in Germany?
The EU Blue Card is a residence permit for university graduates and third-party nationals with specific professional experience, which facilitates and promotes the permanent immigration of highly qualified workers to Germany from non-EU countries.
What is the salary for a Blue Card job in Germany?
Skilled workers with a tertiary education qualification are eligible for the Blue Card (EU). The minimum annual gross salary for skilled workers with a tertiary education qualification is 45,300 euros, and for MINT and health professions, it is 41,041.80 euros.
Who qualifies as a skilled worker in Germany?
In Germany, “skilled workers” or “Fachkräfte” refer to professionals with vocational training or professional qualifications, also known as “highly qualified” individuals with university degrees, and those undergoing vocational training.
