The fee is approximately €100–140 (varies by state), paid by the employee to the foreigners’ authority. Employers may incur indirect costs (e.g., legal support or relocation assistance), but there’s no direct employer fee unless they choose to cover the application cost.

Yes, after 12 months of employment  they can change employers without prior approval. Before that, they need permission from the foreigners’ authority. HRs should notify the authority of the change and provide the new contract details to ensure compliance.

Employer needs to provide a signed employment contract (minimum 6 months), a job description matching the candidate’s qualifications, and proof of the offered salary meeting the threshold. For regulated professions (e.g., medicine), a practice license may also be required. The candidate handles personal documents like their degree and passport.  

If employment ends, the EU Blue Card remains valid for 3 months, giving the employee time to find a new job. HRs must inform the foreigners’ authority promptly. If no new job is secured, the employee may need to leave Germany unless another residence permit applies.