EU Blue Card
A residence permit for university-qualified professionals with a German job offer that meets a salary threshold, with a lower threshold for shortage occupations.
Who this route is for
People with a recognised higher education qualification (or, in some IT cases, comparable experience) and a qualifying employment contract in Germany.
Typical timeline
Depends on the German mission or immigration office handling your case; official processing information is published by the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees.
What this means for your job search
You need the offer first, and the offer must clear the salary threshold. Shortage occupations, which include several IT and engineering roles, have a reduced threshold. Thresholds are set annually, so confirm current figures on the official site.
This is general information, not legal advice. Immigration rules change and individual cases differ — check the official source and, where it matters, talk to an immigration attorney.