Blue Card EU
Skilled migration
to Germany

German companies, especially in the fields of mathematics, computer science, natural sciences, and technology, have long been experiencing a shortage of skilled labor. To fill open positions, many companies look to the international labor market or send personnel from their headquarters. The Blue Card EU Section 18g of the Residence Act (§ 18g AufenthG) is a residence permit that was created to allow foreign professionals to migrate and work in EU countries. If academics and highly qualified professionals from Turkey wish to migrate to Germany, O. Law assists them in applying for the
Blue Card EU.

Are you an academic looking to work in Germany or an entrepreneur looking for foreign professionals?
We can help you with your Blue Card EU application!

blue card

What is the Blue Card EU?
Section 18g of the Residence Act
(§ 18g AufenthG)

The Blue Card EU is a residence permit designed to enable university graduates and highly qualified persons from non-EU countries to migrate and work within the EU. The Blue Card EU is initially issued for a maximum of four years. If the work contract is shorter than four years, the Blue Card EU is valid for the duration of the contract plus three months. The basic requirements are:

  • A higher education diploma or a waiver
  • A valid employment contract or
  • job offer for at least six months

It is also possible to renew the Blue Card EU. Within the first year, the immigration authorities may suspend or deny a change of employment for 30 days.

Applying for a Blue Card EU

Third-country nationals wishing to enter Germany must apply for a visa at the German consulate in their home country. The Blue Card EU is then applied for at the local immigration office after entry into Germany and is a residence permit. The following exceptions apply to third country nationals:

  • If they have held a Blue Card EU in another EU member state for at least 12 months: They can enter Germany without a visa and must apply for the Blue Card EU at the local foreigner’s authority within one month.
  • If you are already living in Germany with another residence permit: You can apply for the Blue Card EU at the local immigration office.

O. Law helps to ensure the success of your Blue Card EU application. Contact us now!

get blue card
 

Benefits of the EU Blue Card

In addition to the right of residence and the right to work, EU Blue Card holders enjoy the following benefit:

  • Simplified criteria for mobility within the EU: No additional visa is required to travel from one EU country
    to another.
  • Easier conditions for family reunification: Spouses receive a residence permit and unrestricted work permit without having to speak German.
  • Permanent residence rights: After five years, EU Blue Card holders are eligible for permanent residence, considering the time spent in all EU countries.
  • Expedited procedures for obtaining a residence permit: EU Blue Card holders can obtain a residence permit in Germany after 27 months if they
    • Worked in a highly skilled job,
    • Have contributed to a pension scheme,
    • Can communicate in German (if B1 level is reached, the period is reduced to 21 months),
    • Have basic knowledge of the German legal and social system,
    • Have a secure income,
    • Have all the necessary permits for permanent employment, and
    • Have no security concerns that would prevent the issuance of a residence permit.

Not sure if you qualify for the EU Blue Card? We can help you!

Entering Germany as an Academic

If you are a university graduate from a third country and would like to work in Germany,
there are several ways to enter the country.

chance

Opportunity card: Finding a job in Germany

Academics who do not yet have a job offer but are interested in working in Germany can obtain a permit to stay in Germany for five to six months to apply to suitable companies. To qualify for this permit, you must meet one of the following requirements:

  • Option 1: Have a recognized master’s degree or vocational training in Germany or have received your degree or training in Germany.
  • Option 2: Have at least six points and meet the following conditions
    • Have completed at least two years of officially recognized professional or academic training in your country and hold a certificate from a foreign educational institution.
    • Possess language skills in German at the A1 level or in English at the B2 level.

Have the financial means to complete the application process.

 

Scoring System for the Chance Card

If you do not have a German university degree or full recognition of your foreign qualifications, you can apply for the Chance Card by accumulating points based on certain criteria.

Points are awarded as follows:

Equivalence of qualification

If your foreign qualification is partially equivalent (4 points).

Scarcity Occupation Qualifications

If your qualification allows you to work in a scarce occupation (e.g. manager, scientist, doctor, teacher, etc.) (1 point).

Work Experience

If you have at least two years of work experience in the last five years or five years in the last seven years (2 or 3 points).

Language skills

Points are awarded based on German language proficiency above the A1 level (1 to 3 points). Additional points for English proficiency at the C1 level or above may be awarded.

Age

the age of 35 or between the ages of 35 and 40.

Residence in Germany

1 point for proof of legal and continuous residence in Germany for at least six months in the last five years. Tourist visits or short stays do not count.

Spouse/partner

1 point if the partner already qualifies for the Chance Card.

If you would like to apply for the Chance Card to seek employment in Germany, O. Law is here to help!

job start

Starting to work in Germany

To successfully apply for a residence permit, academics must meet two requirements:

  • Proof of qualification: Proof of possession of a German or foreign university degree equivalent to a German university degree.
  • Job offers or contract: Proof of a job offer, or contract related to the
    academic qualification.
  • For those aged 45 and over: When the Blue Card is first issued, proof of a salary of at least 55% of the annual pension contribution limit or proof of an appropriate pension plan is required.

If you wish to obtain a residence permit in Germany as an academic or highly qualified worker, contact O. Law!

O.Law
Opening Future Perspectives


Germany's job and education market is highly attractive for students and job seekers - O. Law will help you find your place in Germany. Our approach is solution-oriented, straightforward, honest, and cooperative. We must communicate with our clients on an equal footing:
Mutual understanding and trust are the basis for successful cooperation!

 
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