Free tool
EU Blue Card Salary Calculator
Check whether your candidate's proposed salary meets the 2026 EU Blue Card minimum threshold for Germany. The calculator accounts for shortage occupations, recent graduate exceptions, and regulated professions.
2026 thresholds: €50,700 (regular) · €45,934 (shortage occupations & recent graduates)
iEnter the annual gross salary you're offering
iSelect the candidate's specific job title
iCheck if the candidate graduated within the last 3 years
About the EU Blue Card salary thresholds
Regular occupations — €50,700/year
The standard minimum salary for EU Blue Card applicants in 2026. Applies to all non-shortage occupations including business, management, marketing, finance, and legal roles.
Shortage occupations — €45,934/year
A lower threshold applies for occupations on Germany's official shortage list. This includes STEM fields, IT, engineering, healthcare, education, and select technical trades. The Federal Employment Agency (BA) must approve the employment.
Recent graduates — €45,934/year
Candidates who obtained their university degree within the last 3 years can qualify for the lower threshold regardless of occupation. This is designed for entry-level positions. Federal Employment Agency approval is required.
Frequently asked questions
What is the EU Blue Card salary threshold in Germany in 2026?
In 2026 the general EU Blue Card salary threshold is €50,700 gross per year. For shortage occupations — including IT, engineering, STEM, healthcare and education roles — the reduced threshold is €45,934 gross per year.
Which roles qualify for the lower €45,934 threshold?
Two groups qualify: occupations on Germany's official shortage list (STEM, IT, engineering, healthcare, education and select technical trades), and recent graduates who earned their university degree within the last three years. Both require approval from the Federal Employment Agency (Bundesagentur für Arbeit).
Can IT specialists get an EU Blue Card without a university degree?
Yes. IT specialists can qualify for the EU Blue Card without a formal degree if they have at least three years of relevant professional experience and meet the shortage-occupation salary threshold of €45,934. All other Blue Card applicants still require a recognised university degree.
Is the relokate Blue Card salary calculator free?
Yes. The calculator is free and gives an instant eligibility estimate based on the 2026 thresholds. It is a guide, not a formal eligibility decision — the Ausländerbehörde makes the final determination on each application.
Related resources
EU Blue Card — Full Guide
Requirements, documents, timeline, and application process
Regulated Professions Checker
Does this role require qualification recognition? Check 85+ professions.
Skilled Immigration Act
Germany's framework for hiring international workers
Our services
End-to-end visa and relocation handling
Country guides
Visa requirements by nationality
Need help with the Blue Card process?
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