EU Blue Card Announced for Non-EU Citizens to Live and Work in 25 European Countries in 2024
The EU Blue Card serves as a combined residence and work permit, specifically designed for highly skilled non-EU nationals. It enables them to live and work in 25 of the 27 EU member states, with the exceptions of Denmark and Ireland. To be eligible, applicants must have a recognized university degree and a valid job offer or contract in an EU country.
The Blue Card’s primary purpose is to attract skilled professionals to the EU, offering them rights akin to EU citizens in terms of employment and social benefits, and it also provides a pathway towards long-term residency and possible EU citizenship.
Is the EU Blue Card a Job Seeker VISA for Europe?
It’s important to clarify that the EU Blue Card is not a Job Seeker visa. Designed for highly skilled professionals, it requires a pre-existing employment contract or binding job offer for at least one year from an EU employer. This focus on skilled professionals means it’s tailored for those with recognized university degrees and expertise, not for general job seekers.
Ease of Obtaining the EU Blue Card in Different Countries
While each EU country has its criteria, some are more accommodating than others in issuing the Blue Card. Factors like lower minimum salary requirements in countries like Lithuania and Estonia, quicker processing times in the Netherlands and Germany, and less stringent application procedures in countries like Germany and Sweden, make them favorable options. Additionally, countries like Germany and France have a high demand for specific professions like engineering and IT.
From which EU countries it is easy to obtain EU Blue Card?
The ease of obtaining an EU Blue Card can vary based on several factors like your specific qualifications, job offer, and the field of work. However, some EU countries are generally known to have a more straightforward application process or are more open to awarding Blue Cards. These include:
- Germany (2-4 Months): Known for its focus on qualifications and salary, without additional tests or language requirements. Germany often has a high demand for professionals in engineering, IT, and healthcare sectors.
- Netherlands (4-8 weeks): Offers an online application option and is known for its relatively quick processing times (4-8 weeks). The Netherlands has a significant demand in IT, engineering, and life sciences.
- Belgium (2-4 Months): Has processing times ranging from 2-4 months and is known for a less complex application process.
- Austria (3-4 Months): The processing time in Austria can range from 3-6 months, and it’s generally open to skilled professionals.
Countries with lower minimum salary requirements can also be considered more accessible for obtaining the Blue Card. These include:
- Lithuania: €1095 per month
- Estonia: €1266 per month
- Slovenia: €1399 per month
- Poland: €1446 per month
EU Blue Card for EU Skill Shortage Jobs
The EU Blue Card is a perfect fit for skill shortage jobs in Europe, targeting sectors like STEM, healthcare, IT, and construction. Benefits include lower salary thresholds for shortage jobs, faster processing, and simplified procedures in certain countries, making it an attractive option for professionals over simple work visas.
Benefits of the EU Blue Card
Holders of EU Blue card enjoy numerous advantages, such as the ability to live and work in 25 out of the 27 EU member states, equal treatment with nationals in employment and social security, and a path to permanent residency and EU citizenship. However, Denmark and Ireland are not part of this scheme.
The EU Blue Card is accepted in most EU countries, but not all. As of my last update, the following 25 European countries accept the EU Blue Card for foreigners, allowing them to live and work there:
- Germany
- France
- Spain
- Italy
- Sweden
- Poland
- Belgium
- Netherlands
- Greece
- Portugal
- Czech Republic
- Hungary
- Romania
- Bulgaria
- Austria
- Finland
- Slovakia
- Lithuania
- Latvia
- Estonia
- Slovenia
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Luxembourg
- Malta
Eligibility and Requirements for the EU Blue Card
To qualify, you’ll need a recognized university degree, a valid employment contract or job offer, and a salary that meets the minimum threshold. Country-specific requirements may include additional paperwork, specific professional licenses, and varying salary threshold verification documents.
Navigating the Job Market with the EU Blue Card
The Blue Card offers direct access to the EU job market and enhances your attractiveness to employers. Platforms like the EU Blue Card Network and EURES provide dedicated job search resources for Blue Card holders.
Application Process for the EU Blue Card in 2024
The application process involves checking your eligibility, researching country-specific requirements, gathering necessary documents, and applying through the competent authority in your chosen EU country. This may include an interview and a review of your application, with processing times varying by country.
step-by-step guide to applying for the EU Blue Card:
1# Check Eligibility:
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- Ensure you have a recognized university degree (or equivalent professional experience).
- Have a binding job offer or employment contract in an EU country.
- The offered salary must meet or exceed the set minimum for the EU Blue Card in the respective EU country.
2# Gather Required Documents:
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- Valid passport.
- University degree or proof of professional experience.
- An employment contract or binding job offer.
- Proof of salary meeting the Blue Card requirements.
- Health insurance coverage.
- Other documents as per the specific EU country’s requirements (like language certificates, professional licenses, etc.).
3# Submit Application:
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- Apply for the EU Blue Card in the EU country where you have received your job offer.
- The application can usually be submitted at the local embassy/consulate in your country, or at the immigration office in the EU country if you are already there.
- Pay the application fee.
4# Application Processing:
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- Wait for the processing of your application. The duration varies by country but can take a few weeks to a few months.
5# Approval and Card Issuance:
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- Once approved, you will be issued the EU Blue Card.
- You may then proceed to travel to (or stay in) the EU country and commence your employment.
6# Registration Upon Arrival (if applicable):
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- In some EU countries, you might need to register your residence or address at the local authorities after arrival
Conclusion
The EU Blue Card is a groundbreaking initiative, offering highly qualified non-EU citizens a gateway to a thriving career and life in Europe. With its focus on skilled professionals and alignment with skill shortage areas, it’s an excellent opportunity for those looking to make a significant impact in the European job market
