Check whether a job offer meets the 2026 EU Blue Card minimum salary in the country you’re moving to.
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EU Blue Card salary thresholds 2026
| Country | Minimum gross a year |
|---|---|
| Germany | €50,700 (€45,934.20 shortage or graduate) |
| Netherlands | €71,304 |
| Luxembourg | €65,653 |
| France | €59,373 |
| Sweden | €57,056 |
| Belgium (Brussels) | €56,976 |
| Austria | €55,678 |
| Greece | €32,000 |
| Portugal | €21,030 |
| Romania | €19,815 |
Thresholds are usually updated each January. The Netherlands sets a monthly amount excluding holiday pay.
Other requirements
- A recognised higher education qualification, or in some countries and IT roles, equivalent professional experience.
- A job offer or contract of at least 6 months.
- The job must match your qualification.
Germany’s lower threshold
In Germany, the lower threshold of €45,934.20 applies to shortage occupations (such as IT, engineering, healthcare and teaching) and to graduates who finished their degree in the last 3 years.
Denmark and Ireland don’t take part in the EU Blue Card scheme.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Blue Card salary in Germany for 2026?
€50,700 a year, or €45,934.20 for shortage occupations and recent graduates.
Which country has the lowest Blue Card threshold?
Among the countries listed here, Romania, at about €19,815.
Can I get a Blue Card without a degree?
Some countries accept equivalent professional experience, especially for IT specialists.
Does Ireland have a Blue Card?
No. Ireland and Denmark don’t take part.
Sources
Last updated: