Blue Card and qualification suitability: When does the job match the qualification?

The EU Blue Card is a gateway to the German labor market for many highly qualified professionals. However, applicants must meet one important requirement: the proposed employment must be appropriate to their qualifications. In this article, we explain in a clear and practical way what this term means and why it is so important for employers and applicants from abroad.

What does “appropriate to qualifications” mean?

Essentially, it's about ensuring that your work in Germany is meaningfully related to your education —specifically, your university degree. Unlike other residence permits for skilled employment (e.g., residence permits for academic professionals, Section 18b of the Residence Act ), it's not enough to simply perform any skilled work with the Blue Card. Rather, you must demonstrate that your education is actually being applied in your job . But what does that mean in practice?

Generous interpretation thanks to changes in the law and court decisions

In the past, the term "appropriate" was often interpreted very narrowly. This meant that skilled workers had to apply their degree precisely in the field they had studied in. However, this practice was outdated—especially given the increasing demand for interdisciplinary degree programs, career changes, and detours.

Today things look different:

• Indirect reference is sufficient : It is sufficient if knowledge from the course of study is partially or indirectly applied in the job.

• Not limited to the subject : Even if your position is in a different subject area, it can be appropriate for your qualifications as long as it benefits from academic skills – such as analytical skills, methodical thinking or project management.

This broad interpretation has been confirmed by several higher administrative courts and is now also reflected in the authorities' application guidelines. For example, it is generally sufficient that a single subject of study is relevant to the job (e.g., a compliance officer who studied "law" as part of his business studies).

And what about substandard employment?

Especially career starters or newcomers to Germany sometimes start with a position that doesn't (yet) fully match their qualification level. This is also possible – if it's clear that the job serves as a career entry point and leads to an appropriate position.

For example, a computer scientist initially works in a company's IT hotline to gain professional experience in Germany. If it's foreseeable that he or she will take on a higher position in the medium term, the work can still be considered appropriate.

Conclusion: Seize opportunities, know requirements

The hurdles for proving qualification suitability have been significantly reduced thanks to legal reforms and judicial clarifications. However, one important point remains: There must be a meaningful connection between your qualifications and the desired position – even if only indirect.

Anyone unsure whether their position meets the requirements should seek legal advice early on. Employers also benefit from knowing the exact requirements to ensure legally secure entry for qualified applicants.

Expert tip: If your qualifications are not appropriate, you can still apply for a residence permit for academic professionals under Section 18b of the Residence Act . Since the 2023 legal reform, Section 18b of the Residence Act no longer requires a qualification connection.