Several European Union (EU) member states have recently updated and simplified their EU Blue Card rules to attract more foreign professionals. Greece, Estonia, Italy, and Slovakia have made notable changes in 2024, while Sweden is also planning to ease its conditions soon.

These changes are part of a broader effort to streamline the process for highly qualified non-EU workers to live and work in the EU.

What is an EU Blue Card?

The EU Blue Card is a residence and work permit designed for highly skilled non-EU nationals. It allows holders to live and work in most EU countries, providing a pathway to permanent residency. Each EU member state has specific criteria and may adjust rules to meet local needs.

Changes to EU Blue Card Rules in 2024

1. Greece: Easier Access for Visa-Free and Short-Stay Visitors

Greece has made significant changes to its EU Blue Card rules to attract more highly skilled foreign professionals. As of June 5, 2024, Greece allows individuals who enter the country under the visa-free regime or those holding short-stay Schengen visas to apply for an EU Blue Card.

Previously, all applicants were required to undergo a mandatory pre-screening process, but the new rules make this step optional. However, it is still recommended to complete the pre-screening to avoid delays or rejection of the application.

Key Changes:

• Allows visa-free and short-stay Schengen visa holders to apply for an EU Blue Card.
• Makes pre-screening optional, rather than mandatory.
• The application fee is €300; the renewal fee is €450.
• EU Blue Card is valid for two years.

Impact: These changes make Greece a more attractive destination for skilled foreign professionals, enhancing accessibility and reducing administrative hurdles. By easing entry conditions, Greece aims to boost its skilled workforce and support economic growth.

2. Estonia: Professional Experience Over Academic Qualifications

In April 2024, Estonia revised its EU Blue Card criteria, recognizing professional experience over formal educational qualifications. This change allows foreigners with five years of relevant professional experience to qualify for the EU Blue Card, expanding eligibility beyond those with university degrees.

Estonia also modified employment conditions, making it easier for cardholders to change employers and manage periods of unemployment.

Key Changes:

• Simplifies the process for changing employers without needing to meet labor market testing criteria, with a requirement to notify the current employer.
• Recognizes five years of professional experience instead of requiring a university degree.
• Allows up to three months of unemployment for cardholders with less than six years in the country; and up to six months for those with over two years on an EU Blue Card.

Impact: These reforms expand eligibility for the EU Blue Card, attracting a broader range of skilled professionals. By valuing professional experience and offering job flexibility, Estonia strengthens its appeal to non-EU talent, enhancing its labor market.

3. Italy: Online Application System for Employers

Italy has introduced an online application system for employers to request EU Blue Cards for foreign workers, streamlining the hiring process for highly qualified non-EU nationals. This digital approach aims to make it easier and faster for Italian employers to recruit skilled workers in various sectors. The minimum salary threshold for an EU Blue Card in Italy is set at approximately €24,790.

Key Changes:

• Employers can now submit requests for EU Blue Cards online.
• Simplifies the process for hiring highly qualified non-EU nationals.
• The minimum salary threshold for EU Blue Card holders is €24,790.
• No initial or renewal fee for the EU Blue Card.

Impact of Changes: The online system enhances Italy’s ability to attract foreign talent by reducing administrative burdens and expediting the hiring process. This streamlined approach benefits both employers and applicants, facilitating faster access to the Italian job market for skilled non-EU professionals.

4. Slovakia: Extended Validity and Lowered Salary Requirements

In response to labor shortages, Slovakia has revised its EU Blue Card rules as of July 15, 2024. The validity of the EU Blue Card has been extended from four to five years, and the minimum salary requirement has been lowered to 1.2 times the average national salary. These changes are designed to attract more foreign skilled workers by broadening eligibility and offering more competitive conditions.

Key Changes:

• Extended the validity of the EU Blue Card from four to five years.
• Reduced the minimum salary requirement to 1.2 times the national average salary.
• Eases professional experience pathways for skilled foreign workers.

Impact of Changes: These adjustments make Slovakia a more appealing destination for highly qualified professionals by offering longer residency and lower salary thresholds. This approach aims to address labor market needs and attract a wider range of skilled workers to help fill critical gaps in Slovakia’s workforce.

5. Sweden: Planned Reductions in Salary Requirements

Sweden plans to lower the EU Blue Card salary threshold from 1.5 times to 1.25 times the average monthly salary. This change will make it easier for skilled professionals to qualify and aims to simplify the process for existing permit holders and EU Blue Card holders from other countries.

Key Changes:

• Plans to reduce the minimum salary requirement from 1.5 times to 1.25 times the average monthly salary.
• The new threshold will be €4,300 per month, down from €5,200.
• Simplifies the switch to the EU Blue Card for holders of Swedish residence and work permits.
• Eases procedures for those with EU Blue Cards issued by other EU countries.

Impact: Sweden’s planned changes are expected to attract more foreign talent by lowering salary requirements and easing transitions. These adjustments enhance Sweden’s ability to address labor market needs, making it a more accessible destination for highly skilled professionals.

Eligibility Criteria for the EU Blue Card

To qualify for an EU Blue Card, applicants must meet several conditions:

• Demonstrate higher professional qualifications.
• Be employed in a paid position.
• Earn an annual gross salary of at least 1.5 times the national average, unless a lower threshold applies.
• Have a work contract with a minimum validity of one year.
• Hold necessary travel documents, including health insurance.
• Meet legal requirements to practice the profession if it is regulated in the host country.

Benefits of the EU Blue Card

• Work Authorization: The EU Blue Card grants the holder the right to work in any EU member state.
• Family Reunification: Blue Card holders can bring their families to the EU.
• Path to Permanent Residency: After a certain period of residence, Blue Card holders may be eligible for permanent residency.
• Free Movement: Blue Card holders can freely travel within the Schengen area.

Conclusion

The EU Blue Card offers a valuable opportunity for skilled workers seeking employment and a new life in Europe. With the recent simplifications introduced by several member states, the path to obtaining this visa has become more accessible than ever.