The EU Blue Card allows skilled workers from non-EU countries to live and work in most European Union member states. This permit provides residency and employment rights, excluding Denmark and Ireland.
Read also: 5 key changes to the EU Blue Card programme in 2025
BusinessDay reported that the European Union has announced reforms to its EU Blue Card programme, set to take effect in 2025. The changes aim to attract skilled professionals by lowering salary thresholds, easing contract requirements, and increasing job flexibility. The updated policy addresses labour shortages in key technology, engineering, and healthcare sectors.
Notably, professionals without university degrees but with proven expertise can now qualify. The EU Blue Card offers a pathway to employment in the EU, with some countries processing applications faster. In 2025, six countries will have the shortest processing times, expediting relocation for qualified candidates.
Read also: Six EU countries with the fastest blue card processing times in 2025
Holders of the EU Blue Card can work in 25 countries within the European Union compiled by TravelObiz. These include:
Austria
Belgium
Bulgaria
Croatia
Cyprus
Read also: Germany opens doors to skilled workers with “opportunity card” starts June.
Czech Republic
Estonia
Finland
France
Germany
Read also: It is easy to geta work visa in these 8 countries
Greece
Hungary
Italy
Latvia
Lithuania
Read also: Top 10 work visa pathways for skilled professionals
Luxembourg
Malta
Netherlands
Poland
Portugal
Read also: 10 countries where work visa requirements are similar
Romania
Slovakia
Slovenia
Spain
Sweden
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