New salary thresholds for 2027 for the EU Blue Card and other residence permits

The salary thresholds for skilled workers and qualified workers under German residence law will be adjusted with effect from 1 January 2027. The calculation is based on the new contribution assessment ceiling (BBG) for the general pension insurance scheme of €8,850 per month (€106,200 per year

EU Blue Card salary thresholds for 2027

Standard EU Blue Card (highly qualified professionals with a university degree in all occupations)

• € 53,100 per year
• € 4,425 per month (gross)

Small EU Blue Card (highly qualified roles in shortage occupations or for those starting their careers)

• € 48,108.60 per year
• € 4,009.05 per month (gross)

2027 salary thresholds for other residence permits – overview
In addition to the EU Blue Card, there are further minimum salary requirements for certain groups of workers:

• Skilled workers over 45 years of age: € 58,410 per year /€ 4,867.50 per month gross
• Jobs under Section 6 BeschV (employer not bound by collective agreement): € 47,790 per year / € 3,982.50 per month gross
• Nursing staff, lorry drivers, Western Balkans scheme for those over 45: € 58,410 per year /€ 4,867.50 per month gross