Germany Raises Minimum Salary for Work Permits and EU Blue Cards from 2026

Germany is making major adjustments to its salary thresholds for foreign workers, a move that will impact professionals eyeing the country’s popular EU Blue Card and other work permits. The new minimum salary levels take effect from January 1, 2026, with certain updates to the national minimum wage already in place from January 2025.

New Salary Requirements for EU Blue Card Holders

The EU Blue Card remains one of the most flexible ways for highly qualified non-EU professionals to live and work in Germany. Beginning in 2026, the country will raise the entry-level salary requirements across all categories:

1. Non-Shortage Occupations

Workers in roles outside Germany’s shortage list will soon need to earn at least €50,700 a year, up from €48,300. The update keeps salaries in line with inflation and market trends.

2. Shortage Occupations

For high-demand fields like IT, healthcare, and engineering, the new minimum will be €45,934.20, rising from €43,759.80. It’s meant to help attract more qualified foreign professionals.

3. Young Professionals

Recent graduates applying within three years of earning their qualifications will also need a minimum salary of €45,934.20, up from €43,759.80. The aim is to make it easier for young talent to start their careers in Germany.

4. Specialists with Extensive Experience

Experienced professionals will need to earn at least €45,630, compared to the current €43,470. The increase ensures skilled experts are fairly compensated for their experience.

Summary: New EU Blue Card Salary

Category	Current (€)	New (€)	Increase (€)
Non-shortage Occupations	48,300	50,700	2,400
Shortage Occupations	43,759.80	45,934.20	2,174.40
Young Professionals	43,759.80	45,934.20	2,174.40
Specialists with Extensive Experience	43,470	45,630	2,160

The increases aim to align with inflation and maintain fair compensation levels for foreign professionals working in Germany’s high-demand sectors, such as IT, healthcare, and engineering.

Higher Salary for Skilled Worker Permit Applicants

For those applying under the Skilled Worker Permit or Local Hire Permit, a new salary rule applies to applicants aged 45 or older. Starting in 2026, they’ll need to earn at least €55,770 per year, up from €53,130. Applicants who don’t meet this threshold must show proof of adequate retirement savings to qualify.

National Minimum Wage Increased

Germany’s national minimum wage rose to €12.82 per hour from €12.41, effective January 1, 2025. The change did not affect work visa holders, who are already required to earn a market-rate salary based on their role and qualifications.

Salary Rules for Other Work Permits

Foreign employees holding other types of residence permits, such as the EU Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) Card or Local Hire Work & Residence Permit, must continue to be paid salaries comparable to German workers in similar roles. Employers are also reminded that salaries must be paid in euros, and EU Blue Card holders must be on the local payroll.

What This Means for Foreign Workers

For professionals planning to work in Germany, the salary increases mean slightly higher income requirements but also a stronger push for fair wages. It reflects Germany’s broader effort to attract qualified talent while ensuring foreign workers are paid on par with locals.

In short: if you’re planning to apply for a German work visa or EU Blue Card in 2026, expect a small but important bump in the salary thresholds—and make sure your offer meets the new standards.