Change of Employer with an EU Blue Card in Germany: HR Rules, Regulations and Tips (2026)

As an HR professional in Germany, one may encounter situations where their non-EU employees holding an EU Blue Card (Blaue Karte EU) wish to switch employers. Understanding the process, eligibility, requirements, and necessary documentation is critical to ensuring a smooth transition for the workforce while staying compliant with German immigration laws.

This guide provides everything you need to know about managing a change of employers (Arbeitgeberwechsel) under the EU Blue Card framework in Germany as of 2026.

The EU Blue Card is a residence and work permit designed for highly skilled non-EU nationals to live and work in Germany and other EU countries (excluding Denmark and Ireland). Governed by Section 18g of the Residence Act (AufenthG), it targets professionals with university degrees or comparable qualifications and a job offer meeting specific salary thresholds. For HR teams, facilitating an Arbeitgeberwechsel ensures the employee retains their legal status while transitioning to a new role.

Read about the EU Blue Card in detail here.

Let us understand more about the various employment scenarios and their requirements.

1. Change of Employer Within Germany

1a) Within the First 12 Months

Changing employers during the first year of holding an EU Blue Card requires careful compliance with immigration laws:

• Approval Requirement: Employee must obtain authorization from the local immigration authorities (Ausländerbehörde). The authorities will assess whether their new job meets the criteria for the EU Blue Card, such as salary thresholds and relevance to their qualifications.
• Notification Timeline: Employee must notify the authorities about the change within 12 months of employment. Authorities have up to 30 days to approve or reject the request.
• Qualifications and Job Match:
  • The new position must correspond to their academic qualifications (e.g., a university degree recognized in Germany) or, for IT professionals, at least three years of relevant experience within the last seven years.
  • The job must be in a skilled profession, not self-employment.
• Salary Threshold: As of 2026, the new job must offer a gross annual salary of at least €50,700 for most professions. For bottleneck professions (Engpassberufe) like IT, manufacturing, or healthcare, the threshold is €45,934.20, subject to approval by the Federal Employment Agency (Bundesagentur für Arbeit)

1b) After 12 Months

Once the employee has worked for 12 months:

• They can change employers freely without notifying immigration authorities.
• This flexibility simplifies career transitions and aligns with updates to German immigration laws.

For detailed eligibility criteria, refer to the official Make it in Germany portal.

2. Change of Employer (Relocating) Within the EU

The EU Blue Card enables intra-EU mobility after 12 months of continuous employment in Germany. Employees can move to another EU country under the Blue Card system but must notify local immigration services within one month of arrival.

3. Unemployment Provisions

If the employee loses their job:

• The EU Blue Card remains valid for three months after their employment ends. This grace period allows them to find new work without losing residency status.
• It is essential to inform immigration authorities about their unemployment during this time.

Here's a quick and easy recap of all the above scenarios as a table.

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Application Process for Change of Employer (Arbeitgeberwechsel)

Here’s a step-by-step process to guide the employee through an Arbeitgeberwechsel:

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Documents Needed for Changing Employers

Prepare the following documents to support the application:

1. Valid Passport: A copy of the employee’s passport.
2. Current EU Blue Card: Include the residence permit and Zusatzblatt.
3. New Employment Contract: A signed contract or job offer detailing position, salary, and duration (minimum six months).
4. Form "Erklärung zum Beschäftigungsverhältnis": This job description form, filled out and signed by the new employer, outlines the role and conditions. Download it from the BAMF website.
5. Proof of Qualifications: University degree certificate or, for IT professionals, a CV and evidence of three years’ experience.
6. Health Insurance Proof: Documentation of coverage in Germany.
7. Biometric Photo: A recent 35mm x 45mm photo (required only for in-person visits).

Additional documents may be requested by the Ausländerbehörde, so check with the local office. For a comprehensive list, visit BAMF - EU Blue Card.
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Important Things to Note

• For EU Blue Card types, like MINT, IT, and young professionals, the authorities have the right to suspend the change for up to 30 days temporarily; if it is not rejected within the mentioned period, then it will automatically be accepted.
• If the new job does not meet the requirements, the talent may be eligible for a different residence permit or will receive the opportunity to search for a better job offer.
• Usually, holders of EU Blue Card with a recognized degree are not affected by the suspension of basic criteria like the current Blue Card EU salary threshold and the relation of the degree and the employment are met.
• Changing employers doesn’t typically affect eligibility for a settlement permit after 27 months (or 21 months with B1 German proficiency), as long as employment remains continuous.

Why Arbeitgeberwechsel Matters for HR

Facilitating a smooth Arbeitgeberwechsel retains talent, ensures compliance with German immigration law, and minimizes disruptions. By understanding the EU Blue Card rules, employers can support their employees’ career mobility while maintaining a legally sound HR process.

For the latest updates, consult the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) or European Commission Immigration Portal.

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Summary

Changing employers with an EU Blue Card in Germany requires careful adherence to regulations, especially during the first 12 months. After this period, job transitions become significantly easier. The program also supports intra-EU mobility and provides a safety net in cases of unemployment. Understanding these rules ensures compliance and helps professionals make informed career decisions in Germany.

By following these guidelines, one can navigate employment changes seamlessly while maximizing the benefits of the EU Blue Card.