Several European Union (EU) countries are taking steps to attract skilled professionals from outside the EU by revising their EU Blue Card regulations. These reforms aim to simplify the process, lower salary requirements, and extend the validity of the Blue Card, making it easier for foreign professionals to contribute to their economies.
Greece, Estonia, Italy, Slovakia, and Sweden have all recently implemented or are planning to introduce changes to their Blue Card regulations. These reforms reflect a collective effort to streamline the pathway for skilled workers from outside the EU to live and work within its borders.
The EU Blue Card is a permit that allows highly qualified professionals from outside the EU to live and work in most EU countries, offering a route to permanent residency. Each EU nation sets specific criteria for the Blue Card, which can be updated to align with local needs.
Key Reforms:
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Estonia:
Recognizing the importance of professional experience, Estonia revised its Blue Card requirements in April 2024 to focus on practical experience rather than formal academic qualifications. Foreigners with at least five years of relevant experience can now qualify for the Blue Card, offering more opportunities for non-degree holders.*
Italy:
Italy has introduced a new online platform for employers to apply for EU Blue Cards on behalf of foreign professionals. This digital shift aims to speed up the recruitment process, making it more efficient for Italian companies to attract talent across various sectors. The minimum salary for Blue Card eligibility in Italy is set at approximately €24,790.*
Slovakia:
Facing labor shortages, Slovakia revised its EU Blue Card regulations on July 15, 2024. The Blue Card’s validity has been extended from four to five years, while the minimum salary requirement has been reduced to 1.2 times the national average. These adjustments are designed to attract more foreign professionals by offering longer residency and lower salary barriers.*
Sweden:
Sweden is preparing to lower the EU Blue Card salary requirement from 1.5 times the national average salary to 1.25 times. This will make it easier for skilled professionals to qualify. The new monthly threshold will be reduced to €4,300 from €5,200. The reforms also simplify transitions for both existing permit holders and EU Blue Card holders from other EU nations.Impact:
These reforms are expected to have a significant impact on the attractiveness of EU countries to skilled workers from outside the EU. The simplified application processes, lowered salary requirements, and extended validity periods create a more welcoming environment for foreign professionals seeking to contribute their skills and expertise.
Requirements for EU Blue Card Eligibility:
To obtain an EU Blue Card, applicants must meet several key criteria:
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Hold a valid passport or other travel document.
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Have a job offer from an employer in an EU country.
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Meet the minimum salary requirements set by the specific EU country.
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Possess the required qualifications and work experience for the job offer.
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Have sufficient health insurance coverage.
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Demonstrate a clean criminal record.
Advantages of the EU Blue Card:
The EU Blue Card offers several advantages for skilled professionals:
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Access to employment and residency in most EU countries.
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A pathway to permanent residency and citizenship.
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The right to work and live in any EU country after five years.
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The ability to bring family members to the EU.
The EU Blue Card presents a valuable opportunity for highly qualified professionals seeking employment in Europe. With recent reforms simplifying the application process in several EU countries, the Blue Card has become more accessible than ever, opening new doors for skilled workers looking to establish their careers in Europe.
