Extension of IT Specialist EU Blue Card in Germany

The EU Blue Card is a residence permit for highly qualified non-EU nationals, including IT specialists, allowing them to live and work in Germany. If you hold an EU Blue Card as an IT specialist, renewing it before expiry is crucial to maintain your legal status and employment in Germany. This guide covers everything you need to know about renewing your IT specialist EU Blue Card in Germany in 2025.

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Eligibility for Extension

To be eligible for extension of your EU Blue Card as an IT specialist in Germany, you must:

• Hold a valid or soon-to-expire EU Blue Card.
• Have a continuing employment contract or job offer in Germany requiring IT skills.
• Meet the minimum salary threshold applicable to IT specialists (see Salary Levels below).
• Maintain valid health insurance coverage.
• Have a valid passport with at least 3 months validity beyond the intended stay.
• Reside legally in Germany and have proof of residence (Anmeldung).

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Salary Levels for IT Specialists in 2025

The minimum gross annual salary for IT specialists applying for or renewing an EU Blue Card in Germany in 2025 is €43,759.80. This is a reduced threshold compared to other professions, reflecting the shortage of IT specialists in Germany. For other non-shortage occupations, the salary threshold is higher at €48,300 annually

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Required Documents for Extension

When renewing your EU Blue Card, prepare the following documents:

• Valid passport (issued within the last 10 years, valid for at least 3 months beyond stay).
• Current EU Blue Card.
• Recent biometric passport photo.
• Proof of continued employment contract or job offer meeting salary requirements.
• Declaration of employment signed by your employer.
• Proof of health insurance coverage.
• Proof of residence registration in Germany (Anmeldung).
• Additional documents may be requested by the local Foreigners' Office (Ausländerbehörde)

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Extension Process

1. Book an Appointment‍

• In Berlin, appointments for extension are booked online via the official Foreigners' Office website. Due to high demand, appointments may be scarce; frequent retries are advised.

• In other German cities, appointments are often made by contacting the local Foreigners' Office via email or phone, ideally 5-6 months before expiry.‍

2. Prepare Documents

• Gather all required documents in original and copies as per the checklist.

3. Attend Appointment

• Arrive 15-20 minutes early. Submit your documents, biometric data, and pay the extension fee. The process usually takes about 1.5 hours.

4. Receive Confirmation

• You will receive a confirmation letter proving your extension application is under process. This letter serves as a temporary residence permit for up to three months while awaiting the new card.

5. Wait for Processing

• Processing time can be up to 90 days as per European regulations.

6. Receive New EU Blue Card

• The renewed card is typically valid for up to four years or the duration of your employment contract plus three months, whichever is shorter

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Where to Apply for Extension

• Apply for extension at the local Foreigners' Office (Ausländerbehörde) in your city of residence in Germany.
  
  
• Initial Blue Card applications from abroad are done via the German embassy or consulate and the Consular Services Portal, but extension are handled locally

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Fees for Extension

• Extension fee for up to 3 months: €96
• Extension fee for more than 3 months: €93
• Express processing (optional): €35
• Initial Blue Card issuance fee: €100

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Additional Important Information

• The EU Blue Card allows visa-free travel within the EU for up to 90 days but does not automatically grant work rights in other EU countries.
  
  
• Spouses of Blue Card holders can work in Germany without restrictions and do not need German language skills for residence permits.
  
  
• The Blue Card holder can stay outside Germany/EU for up to 12 consecutive months without losing the card.
  
  
• Early application for extension (at least 3 months before expiry) is recommended to avoid legal stay issues.
  
  
• Keep your address registration up to date and maintain an active employment contract to ensure smooth extension.
  
  

This comprehensive guide should help IT specialists in Germany navigate the EU Blue Card extension process efficiently and maintain their legal working status. 

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Disclaimer:

Immigration laws and policies change frequently and may vary by country or nationality. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we recommend doing your own due diligence or consulting official sources. You’re also welcome to contact us directly for the latest guidance. Jobbatical would not be responsible for decisions made based on the information provided.

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