Professionals to receive Blue Card
Germany simplifies the right of residence for foreign professionals by introducing a Blue Card.
New prospects for foreign students, graduates and scientists: Germany is making residence in the country easier for highly qualified international professionals. In the future, foreign students are to be allowed to work for 120 days a year while studying, instead of the previous 90, and to stay in Germany for 18 months after graduating to find a suitable job – instead of the previous 12. Another change is that a permanent right of residence can already be granted after two years. A residence permit for up to six months to look for a job is to be introduced for foreign graduates. In addition, the new Blue Card will make it possible for highly qualified individuals from abroad to work in Germany for up to four years. The condition is a contract of employment and a minimum annual salary of 44,800 euros. The salary cap is lower, at just under 35,000 euros, in certain professions where specialized personnel – such as natural scientists, mathematicians, engineers, doctors or IT experts – are in great demand. Blue Card holders will be able to stay in Germany indefinitely after only two to three years. It will also be made easier for their family members to work in Germany.
