Federal Republic of Germany
Federal Republic of Germany visa salary thresholds
Germany operates multiple salary floors: the EU Blue Card has a headline threshold and a reduced threshold for shortage occupations. Other skilled-worker routes (general employment, IT specialists without a degree, Chancenkarte) each have their own rules.
Last checked 20 April 2026.
Threshold table
| Route | Amount | ~USD | In force since | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
EU Blue Card — general threshold Gross annual salary floor for EU Blue Card applications in Germany from 1 January 2026. Calculated as 50% of the federal average annual salary. | €48,300 / year | $52,000 | 2026-01-01 | Make it in Germany — EU Blue Card |
EU Blue Card — shortage occupations (Engpassberufe) Reduced salary floor for shortage occupations (IT, engineers, doctors, mathematicians, natural scientists). Applies at ~45.3% of the federal average salary. | €43,760 / year | $47,000 | 2026-01-01 | Make it in Germany — EU Blue Card |
General skilled-worker residence (§18a/§18b AufenthG) Indicative gross annual remuneration for most non-Blue-Card skilled-worker residence titles under the Skilled Immigration Act (no formal minimum but applicants aged 45+ must meet this level). | €43,500 / year | $47,000 | 2024-03-01 | BMI — Skilled Immigration Act |
Chancenkarte (Opportunity Card) — points-based Chancenkarte does not set an initial salary floor. A job offer meeting the relevant skilled-worker floor converts the card into a residence title. | Not applicable | — | 2024-06-01 | Make it in Germany — Chancenkarte |
How often this changes
EU Blue Card figures are recalculated each year based on the federal average salary published by BMAS. The 2026 figures took effect on 1 January 2026.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum salary to qualify for a work visa in Germany?
Germany operates multiple salary floors: the EU Blue Card has a headline threshold and a reduced threshold for shortage occupations. Other skilled-worker routes (general employment, IT specialists without a degree, Chancenkarte) each have their own rules.
How often do Germany salary thresholds change?
EU Blue Card figures are recalculated each year based on the federal average salary published by BMAS. The 2026 figures took effect on 1 January 2026.
Does meeting the headline threshold guarantee approval?
No. Headline floors are one of several criteria. Most jurisdictions also apply an occupation-specific going rate, character and health checks, and — for sponsored routes — employer/sponsor compliance. Failing any one of these can lead to refusal even where salary is above the threshold.