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Europe Just Increased Salary Requirements for Foreigners – Why Should You Care?

Updated: Feb 21

Thinking about landing a job in Europe in 2025 with an EU Blue Card? Well, here's the scoop: several EU countries have decided to raise their salary requirements for foreign professionals — and it’s happening NOW! If you're planning to work in one of these countries, it’s time to check your salary expectations and start prepping.


But don’t worry, these changes are just part of the growing demand for skilled professionals in Europe. Let’s dive into the details — and who knows, you might just end up with a bigger paycheck!


What’s the Deal with the EU Blue Card?

The EU Blue Card is your golden ticket to live and work in most EU countries if you have high-level qualifications and experience. It's like VIP access to the job market — but there’s a catch: you’ve got to meet the salary requirements to get in!


Why Are These Countries Raising Salary Requirements?

Simple: Europe wants to attract the best and brightest talent, but they also want to make sure those workers are paid fairly and contribute to the economy. So, to get that Blue Card, you’ll need to meet a higher bar for pay in some countries.


Countries That Raised Salary Requirements in 2025

Here’s the lowdown on which countries have made moves and what the new salary levels look like:


Austria

Since January 2025, Austria has bumped up the salary requirement for its EU Blue Card. Now, foreign professionals need to prove they make €3,678 per month (that’s a 7.07% increase from last year). So, if you’re eyeing Austria, make sure your salary checks out!

  • EU Blue Card Validity: 2 years

  • Processing Time: 8 weeks


Germany

Germany’s rules are a bit more nuanced, depending on the job you have. For 2025:

  • Non-shortage occupations: You’ll need to earn €48,300 annually (up from €45,300).

  • Shortage occupations: These jobs now require €43,759.80 a year (up from €41,041.80).

  • Young professionals: If you’ve recently graduated, you’ll need to earn €43,759.80 as well (up from €41,041.80).

  • EU Blue Card Validity: 4 years

  • Processing Time: Up to 90 days


Hungary

Hungary has also raised the salary requirement. The new monthly salary for the EU Blue Card is now €2,166 (up from €1,896). But, if you’re in specific professions (like doctors or pharmacists), there’s a lower salary level.

  • EU Blue Card Validity: Not specified

  • Processing Time: Not specified


Sweden

Sweden’s making it easier, not harder! Since January 2025, Sweden has relaxed its EU Blue Card rules — so no salary increase here, but the process has become simpler for applicants.

  • EU Blue Card Validity: Not specified

  • Processing Time: Not specified


Why Should You Care?

Well, if you’ve got your eye on working in Europe, it’s good news for you! Higher salaries mean a better standard of living, more opportunities, and of course, a higher paycheck. But with these new salary levels, you’ll need to make sure you're earning enough to meet the new thresholds if you want to snag that Blue Card.


How to Make Sure You’re Ready:

  • Check Your Salary: Make sure the salary you’re earning (or expecting to earn) is enough to meet the new requirements.

  • Talk to Your Employer: If you’re already working for a European employer, check if your role and salary meet the new standards.

  • Stay Informed: These rules change all the time, so keep an eye on any updates to the Blue Card system.


The Bottom Line?

The EU Blue Card remains one of the best ways to live and work in Europe. While salary hikes might make things a little trickier for some, they’re also a sign that the EU wants to pay you fairly for your skills. So, check those salary requirements, polish up your CV, and get ready for a new adventure — with a bigger paycheck to boot!


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