EU Blue Card holders can work in another EU country after 18 months in Germany. Standard residence permit holders need a work visa for other EU nations.

Employees can apply for permanent residency (Niederlassungserlaubnis) after:

• 33 months (or 21 months with B1-level German) on an EU Blue Card.

• 5 years on a standard work permit.

A residence visa allows foreign nationals to enter Germany and stay for employment purposes. The work permit is part of the residence visa or permit, granting legal authorization to work. These terms are often used interchangeably in Germany.

Germany offers three main residence permits:

• Temporary Residence Permit (Aufenthaltserlaubnis): For work, study, or family reunification.

• EU Blue Card: For highly skilled professionals meeting salary thresholds.

• Permanent Residence Permit (Niederlassungserlaubnis): After working in Germany for several years.