My salary is just below the threshold — any options?

Negotiate gross salary up (bonuses count if contractually guaranteed), or use the regular skilled-worker permit § 18b, which has no fixed threshold below 45 — only the over-45 pension rule (€55,770 in 2026).

Does the Blue Card transfer between EU countries?

After 12 months in Germany you can move to another EU state under its Blue Card rules with simplified procedures; short business stays across the EU are covered without extra visas.

Which occupations count as shortage occupations?

Mainly ISCO groups for STEM: IT/communications professionals, engineers, natural scientists, mathematicians, architects, doctors, pharmacists, nursing/health professionals, school teachers and managers in production/ICT/health.

Can I lose the Blue Card if I lose my job?

You must notify the Ausländerbehörde. You normally get time to find a new qualifying job; the card stays valid meanwhile. Change of employer in the first 12 months requires approval.

Recently updated by a policy change EU Blue Card salary thresholds rise for 2026 — 1 January 2026

§ 18g AufenthG

EU Blue Card: from United Kingdom to Germany

The premium work permit for academics with a job offer above a salary threshold. Fastest route to permanent residence (21 months with German B1), privileged family reunification, and EU-wide mobility rights.

Entry & visa rule: You may enter Germany visa-free and apply for your residence permit locally after arrival (§ 41 AufenthV) — a major advantage.

Requirements

German or recognised/comparable foreign university degree
Check anabin; if unclear, get a ZAB Statement of Comparability. IT specialists without a degree qualify with 3 years of relevant experience within the last 7.
Salary ≥ €50,700 gross/year (standard, 2026)
Reduced threshold ≥ €45,934.20 for shortage occupations, new graduates (≤3 years) and IT specialists
Binding job offer or contract for at least 6 months

Financial thresholds (2026)

Standard threshold (2026): €50,700
Shortage occupations & career starters (2026): €45,934

How to apply

Verify your degree on anabin
University 'H+' and degree 'entspricht/gleichwertig' → you're fine. Otherwise order a ZAB Statement of Comparability (takes ~3 months — start early).
Official page ↗
Check the salary threshold
2026: €50,700 standard, €45,934.20 for shortage occupations (engineers, IT, doctors, STEM) and graduates within 3 years of their degree.
Apply — from abroad or in Germany
From abroad via the Consular Services Portal; nationals of e.g. the US, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, Israel, NZ can enter visa-free and apply at the Ausländerbehörde (§ 41 AufenthV).
Official page ↗
Start work, then track your PR clock
Keep payslips and pension statements — after 21 months (B1) or 27 months you can file for permanent residence.

Full details, FAQs and sources for this path: EU Blue Card → · Back to United Kingdom →