Germany Increases 2021 Salary Thresholds

Beginning January 1, 2021, the German income levels for contributions into the public pension scheme will increase as per the annual adjustments, impacting the minimum salary thresholds for various immigration categories.

The minimum salary thresholds will be as follows:

• Blue Card EU for shortage occupations:
• €44,304 gross per annum / €3,692 gross per month
• Blue Card EU regular:
• €56,800 gross per annum / €4,733 gross per month
• Residence permits for employees affected by the age threshold (older than 45 years, certain categories only) applying for a residence permit for the first time:
• €46,860 gross per annum / €3,905 gross per month
• IT-specialists without academic training (Section 6 Employment Ordinance):
• €51,120 gross per annum / €4,260 gross per month

Who is affected?

The above threshold will be applicable to all new applicants for residence permits and blue cards issued from January 1, 2021, but will not impact existing permit holders.

For further information on the salary thresholds set for 2021 in Germany, please contact the Sterling Lexicon immigration team.