Germany: Facilitating employment of highly qualified aliens

As of 01 April 2012 the German Government has introduced the EU Blue Card in order to facilitate employment of highly qualified workers from the countries which are not members of the European Union. 

As of 01 April 2012 the German Government has introduced the EU Blue Card in order to facilitate employment of highly qualified workers from the countries which are not members of the European Union.    According to some estimates, by 2030 Germany will have a shortage of 6 million workers and the EU Blue Card will enable easier employment of highly qualified workers.

The biggest hurdle to enter the German labour market used to be the proof of earning which was to be presented by workers from non-EU countries.  The minimum salary had to be no less than 66,000 EUR annually which has now been changed.  Whoever wants to acquire a Blue Card only needs to have a university degree and the proof of earning at least 44,000 EUR per year.  Applicants who meet these requirements will be granted a work permit and after three years of work, the permanent residence permit.

Accompanying spouses will be also entitled to seek a job with no obligation to submit a language certificate.  The earning threshold for medical doctors, engineers and IT specialists has been even lowered to 35,000 EUR.  Foreign students studying in Germany will also be entitled to a Blue Card if they find a job in their profession within a year after graduation.