What are the differences between an EU Blue Card and a Work Visa?
An EU Blue Card is a residence permit allowing non-EU nationals to live and work in the EU state country of their choice. A work visa, on the other hand, gives foreigners legal access to work in the country throughout the validity of their visa. The duration of their stay depends on the chosen country, type of work visa, duration of the employment contract, and the visa validity. While the EU Blue Card and a work visa may seem similar as they allow non-EU citizens to reside and seek employment, they are different and come with different purposes.
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EU Blue Card vs. Work Visa
Given below are the differences between an EU Blue Card and a German work visa:
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Factors |
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Type of permit |
Residence permit |
Work permit |
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Who can apply? |
Highly skilled non-EU nationals |
non-EU citizens looking to work in Germany |
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Eligibility Criteria |
Hold a university degree ( Master’s or an equivalent) |
Have an employment offer from a German employer. |
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Have a minimum of 5+ years of work experience |
Have an job contract from a new employer |
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Have a job offer in the EU state country |
Have a degree that is recognized in Germany. |
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Have earning that meet the minimum income requirements |
Prior work experience (for those without university qualifications) |
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Documents required |
Application form |
Passport |
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Valid Passport |
Visa application form |
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Two copies of color photographs |
Educational qualifications |
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Employment contract |
Proof of previous work experience |
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Proof of work experience of five years |
An updated CV |
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Updated CV |
Invitation letter from a German employer |
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Medical insurance |
Job description form |
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Proof of income |
Proof of job contract in Germany |
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Criminal clearance certificate |
Health insurance |
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A Declaration from the EU employer |
Proof of accommodation in Germany |
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Family Reunification? |
Yes |
Yes |
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Validity |
Up to 4 years |
Varies based on the type of work visa |
|
Processing Time |
6- 12 weeks |
1-3 months (may vary based on the work visa type) |
|
Processing Cost |
€ 140 |
EUR 75 (may vary based on the work visa type) |
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