Blue Card Salary (Germany)
You need this salary to apply for the Blue Card.
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Here you learn ...
What salary do you need for the Blue Card (2025)
which salary applies to shortage occupations
what salary is necessary for IT specialists
everything to increase the salary limits
Table of contents
1. Blue Card Salary: You must meet these requirements in 2025
2. Shortage occupations: Lower salary limit for particularly sought-after specialists
3. Salary for IT specialists and young professionals (Section 18g (2), (6) Residence Act)
4. Do salary increases, part-time work and special payments also apply?
5. FAQ Salary Blue Card
6. Conclusion Salary Blue Card
1. Blue Card Salary: You must meet these requirements in 2025
Anyone who wants to work as a foreign skilled worker in Germany can apply for the EU Blue Card under certain conditions. One of the most important requirements is the right salary. New minimum salary limits will apply for 2025, based on the annual contribution assessment ceiling for statutory pension insurance . The regular salary limit ("large" Blue Card) in 2025 will be at least 50% of this assessment ceiling. This means you must demonstrate a gross annual salary of at least €48,300 .
However, a lower salary threshold applies to certain groups. These include occupations with a shortage of skilled workers, entry-level employees, and IT specialists . In these cases, it is sufficient if the annual salary is at least 45.3% of the assessment limit – approximately €43,759.80 in 2025. Important: These limits apply regardless of whether the salary is stated monthly or annually. The decisive factor is that the gross salary guaranteed in the employment contract reaches the respective threshold.
2. Shortage occupations: Lower salary limit for particularly sought-after specialists
In 2023, the list of so-called shortage occupations was significantly expanded . These now include managers in production, logistics, and IT, as well as doctors , engineers, teachers, academic nurses, and other healthcare professionals. Those working in one of these occupations can receive the Blue Card with a lower salary, provided all other requirements are met.
The classification of shortage occupations is based on the International Classification of Occupations (ISCO-08) . This system lists all occupations eligible for an EU Blue Card under the shortage regulation in the respective occupational categories. In these cases, the responsible authorities also examine whether " appropriate employment " exists.
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3. Salary for IT specialists and young professionals (Section 18g (2), (6) Residence Act)
Special rules apply to IT specialists without a formal university degree : They can also apply for an EU Blue Card if they can demonstrate at least three years of professional experience within the last seven years – and receive a gross annual salary of at least €43,759.80. This makes the IT sector particularly open to qualified professionals with practical experience.
Even those who recently earned their university degree benefit from the lower salary threshold ( for those starting their careers ). If the degree was obtained less than three years ago, the reduced salary is also sufficient for the Blue Card. This regulation is intended to facilitate entry into the job market and attract skilled workers.
4. Do salary increases, part-time work and special payments also apply?
If the salary threshold is raised at the beginning of a calendar year, this will not affect previously issued Blue Cards – unless there is a change of employer within the first twelve months or the title is due to be renewed. In these cases, the new salary must meet the current requirements. However, if only the salary threshold increases due to the change of year, the EU Blue Card should not be revoked, according to the instructions of the Federal Ministry of the Interior (BMI).
Special payments such as vacation or Christmas bonuses can also be credited, provided they are specifically specified in the employment contract. Bonus payments linked to special performance, however, do not count, as these payments are subject to a condition. For part-time employment , the actual annual salary paid must reach the minimum threshold. A mathematical extrapolation to a fictitious full-time salary is not permitted. However, a Blue Card can be applied for with a part-time job if the part-time salary reaches the required threshold.
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Are you looking for a lawyer specializing in German immigration and visa law? We are happy to assist you with residence procedures before embassies, immigration authorities, and administrative courts. Our specialised attorneys are always by your side. Contact us to book an online appointment with a German immigration lawyer!
5. FAQ Salary Blue Card
What is the minimum salary required to obtain the EU Blue Card 2025?
To obtain the regular Blue Card, you must earn at least €48,300 gross per year. For certain groups—such as those in shortage occupations, entry-level workers, or IT specialists—a salary of around €43,759.80 is sufficient.
How do I know if my job is considered a shortage occupation?
Shortage occupations are classified according to the ISCO-08 classification system. These include medical professions, engineers, teachers, nurses, IT specialists, and managers in certain areas. The responsible authority will determine whether your occupation falls under this category.
Does Christmas bonus or vacation pay count towards salary?
Yes, but only if these payments are explicitly and bindingly stipulated in the employment contract. Performance-related bonuses are not taken into account because they are not guaranteed.
Can I get the Blue Card with a part-time job?
In principle, yes – as long as the actual annual gross salary reaches the respective salary threshold. A mathematical extrapolation to a fictitious full-time salary is not sufficient.
What happens if the salary cap increases in 2026? Will I have to adjust my salary?
Only if you change employers within the first twelve months or if you extend your Blue Card does the new salary have to meet the then-current requirements. There is no provision for subsequent withdrawal due to an increased limit.
6. Conclusion
The EU Blue Card will remain an attractive residence permit for qualified professionals from third countries in 2025. The decisive factor for its issuance is the right salary – depending on the profession, qualifications, and professional experience. A particularly positive aspect is that even young professionals and experienced IT specialists without a degree have a realistic chance of obtaining a Blue Card if they meet the reduced minimum salary. However, it is important that all conditions – especially the specific salary commitment in the employment contract – are met. Anyone unsure should seek legal advice early on to avoid unnecessary delays.
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