Brücke OS

Visa & Migration

EU Blue Card, §81a, student, family reunification — procedures, document lists and thresholds.

Which route fits me?

Which situation describes you best?

Which route fits me?

Process guides

EU Blue Card Application Process

Step-by-step overview for the EU Blue Card.

6 steps7 documents~107 days

Family Reunification Visa Process

Step-by-step overview for joining family members living in Germany.

6 steps6 documents~177 days

Tools

EU Blue Card salary check

Enter your annual gross salary and check the 2026 threshold. Deterministic pre-check (BGH Smartlaw-safe), not individual legal advice.

Schengen 90/180 Calculator (tourist)

Short stays: at most 90 days in any 180-day period. Enter your stays and see the days you have left.

§81a accelerated procedure — timeline comparison

Compare the estimated total duration of the regular route with the employer-initiated accelerated skilled worker procedure.

Regular route20–54 weeks
§81a accelerated6–14 weeks
Estimated saving: 6–48 weeksProcedure fee: 411 €

Durations are target/estimated values; complete documents are decisive. The employer initiates the accelerated procedure at the foreigners authority (fee: €411).

Source: Make-it-in-Germany · Valid from 2024-03-01

Frequently asked questions

Do I need German for the EU Blue Card?

No — there is no general statutory German requirement for the EU Blue Card. The job profile is decisive; German remains a big advantage for daily life and permanent residence.

Source: Make-it-in-Germany · Valid from 2024-06-01

Does my spouse need an A1 certificate to join me?

Spouses generally need A1; however, spouses of EU Blue Card holders are EXEMPT. Children under 16 need no language proof. Exceptions vary — the diplomatic mission's current list is decisive.

Source: BAMF · Valid from 2024-01-01

Do I start the §81a accelerated procedure myself?

No — the EMPLOYER initiates the §81a procedure at the competent foreigners authority and usually pays the €411 fee. Your job is complete documents; after pre-approval the consulate appointment follows within 3 weeks.

Source: Make-it-in-Germany · Valid from 2024-06-01

How long does my visa application take?

It varies greatly by category and season: appointment wait plus processing can take weeks to months. Under §81a the mission generally decides within 3 weeks. No one can promise exact durations.

Source: Auswärtiges Amt (Türkei) · Valid from 2024-01-01

Official sources for this module

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