EU Blue Card Application Process - Step by Step Guide

Secure a Qualifying Job Offer

Before you can apply, you need a job offer or contract from an employer in an EU member state. The job must meet salary thresholds and match your qualifications.

Tips:

Use job portals like LinkedIn, Indeed, and country-specific sites
Many employers handle Blue Card applications for candidates
Ensure the contract is for at least 6 months
Verify the salary meets the threshold for your destination

Gather Required Documents

Collect all necessary documents. Many will need to be translated and apostilled or legalized. Start this process early as it can take weeks.

Submit Your Application

Apply either at the embassy/consulate in your home country (if applying from abroad) or at the local immigration office (if already legally in the EU).

Wait for Processing

Processing times vary by country. You may be called for an interview or asked to provide additional documents during this period.

Receive Your Blue Card

Once approved, you'll receive your Blue Card. You can then travel to your destination country and begin work.

Required Documents

While requirements vary slightly by country, you'll typically need the following documents. Always check the specific requirements for your destination country.

Identity Documents

📕

Valid Passport

Valid for at least 3 months beyond your intended stay, with 2+ blank pages

📷

Passport-Size Photos

Usually 2-4 biometric photos meeting local requirements (35x45mm typically)

📝

Application Form

Official visa/residence permit application form, completed and signed

Employment Documents

📄

Employment Contract or Job Offer

Signed contract showing job title, salary, duration, and start date

🏢

Employer Declaration

Some countries require a declaration from the employer confirming the position

Qualification Documents

🎓

Diploma/Degree Certificate

Original or certified copy, translated and apostilled/legalized

📋

Transcript of Records

Academic transcripts showing courses and grades (some countries)

✅

Credential Recognition

Official recognition of your degree in the destination country (if required)

💼

Professional Experience (if applicable)

Reference letters and employment records if using experience instead of degree

Additional Documents

🏥

Health Insurance

Proof of comprehensive health insurance coverage

🏠

Proof of Accommodation

Rental contract or hotel booking (some countries)

👮

Police Clearance Certificate

Criminal background check from your home country (some countries)

💶

Proof of Financial Means

Bank statements showing sufficient funds (some countries)

Document Tips

Apostille: Documents from Hague Convention countries need an apostille stamp
Translation: Most countries require sworn/certified translations
Copies: Always bring originals plus 2-3 certified copies
Validity: Some documents must be less than 3-6 months old

Where to Apply

Your application location depends on where you currently reside:

From Outside the EU

Apply at the embassy or consulate of your destination country in your home country. You'll typically first receive a national visa (Type D) to enter, then convert to Blue Card upon arrival.

Process: Submit application → Interview (if required) → Receive entry visa → Travel to EU → Register locally → Receive Blue Card

Already in the EU (Legally)

If you're already legally in an EU country (tourist visa, student visa, etc.), you may be able to apply directly at the local immigration/foreigners office without leaving.

Process: Book appointment → Submit documents → Biometrics → Wait for decision → Collect Blue Card

Processing Times by Country

Processing times vary significantly between countries. These are typical timeframes but can vary based on application volume and individual circumstances.

Country	Typical Processing Time	Notes
🇩🇪 Germany	1-3 months	Faster with complete documentation
🇳🇱 Netherlands	2-4 weeks	One of the fastest in EU
🇫🇷 France	2-3 months	Varies by prefecture
🇦🇹 Austria	2-3 months	Labor market test may apply
🇪🇸 Spain	1-3 months	Improving processing times
🇵🇱 Poland	1-2 months	Relatively fast processing
🇮🇹 Italy	2-4 months	Can vary by region
🇧🇪 Belgium	2-4 months	Regional differences apply

Application Fees

Blue Card application fees vary by country. Here are typical fee ranges:

Visa Fee (from abroad)

€75 - €100

For initial entry visa

Blue Card Fee

€100 - €200

For the residence permit

Total Typical Cost

€150 - €300

Including all fees

Additional costs may include document translation, apostille, credential evaluation, and travel to embassy/consulate.

Tips for a Successful Application

Start Early

Begin gathering documents 2-3 months before you need to apply. Apostilles and translations take time.

Check Requirements

Verify the exact requirements for your specific destination country. They can differ significantly.

Complete Documentation

Missing or incomplete documents are the #1 cause of delays and rejections.

Employer Support

Many employers have immigration teams or lawyers. Don't hesitate to ask for help.

Keep Copies

Make multiple copies of everything. Keep digital scans as backup.

Book Early

Embassy appointments can have long wait times. Book as soon as you have your documents ready.

After You Receive Your Blue Card

Register Your Address

Most EU countries require you to register your residence within 1-2 weeks of arrival.

Get a Tax Number

You'll need a local tax identification number for employment and banking.

Open a Bank Account

A local bank account is essential for receiving your salary.

Apply for Social Security

Family Reunification

If bringing family, start their visa applications as soon as you have your Blue Card.

Choose Your Destination

Application requirements vary by country. Select your destination for specific guidance.

View Country Guides