Germany issues new visa rules

Embarking on a quest for skilled foreign labour, Germany has opted to relax the requisites for acquiring its coveted blue card. This European blue card serves as a residency permit for adept non-EU foreign individuals desiring to toil in an EU nation. This card expedites the entry of highly skilled non-EU professionals into the EU, paving the way for permanent residency as swiftly as 21 months post-relocation to Germany. Germany's adjustment to blue card prerequisites has been highlighted in the latest information disseminated by the Germany Service Portal Berlin. Four novel alterations have been instituted to streamline the visa acquisition process and facilitate family reunification for foreign workers. Among these changes, a noteworthy reduction in the annual income threshold is prominent, rendering eligibility for the blue card more accessible. Reports from local media indicate a substantial slash in the annual average income requirement from €58,400 to €39,682.80, particularly in sought-after sectors like mathematics, healthcare, and IT. Meanwhile, other professionals must now attain an income of €43,800 to qualify for the Blue Card. A comprehensive and up-to-date list of eligible professions can be found here. Notably, recent graduates and IT professionals are now eligible for a blue card at a reduced salary. This includes graduates within the last three years and IT experts with a minimum of three years of experience, even without a formal degree.

Expanding on the transformative alterations, another significant shift is allowing blue card holders from another EU country to visit Germany for up to 90 days on work-related trips sans a visa. Additionally, individuals residing in another EU country on a blue card for at least a year can now establish long-term residence and employment in Germany without the need for a visa. The process of applying for a Blue Card involves completing the application and submitting it to the German embassy, situated in Abuja or Lagos.

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