Transferring EU Blue Card Germany: Why a Blue Card transfer is required

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In Germany, the EU Blue Card is closely linked to the validity of the holder’s passport. Even when the residence permit itself was issued for several years, the expiry of the passport renders the card unusable. In such cases, an official transfer of the EU Blue Card to the new passport is required to ensure uninterrupted residence and work authorisation.

Eligibility criteria

A transfer is possible provided several formal conditions are met. The employee must still have the old passport available, or alternatively a police report confirming its loss or theft. The time gap between the expiry of the old passport and the issuance of the new one must not exceed 12 months. In addition, the Blue Card holder must not have spent more than 12 consecutive months outside Germany, as extended absences may trigger additional scrutiny.

Authorities and application process

The transfer is handled by the local immigration authority, either the Ausländerbehörde or the Bürgeramt, depending on the city and specific circumstances. Authorities review the existing EU Blue Card, the accompanying Zusatzblatt, the new and old passports, and a biometric photograph. If the old passport is missing, a police report is required. Importantly, salary levels and employment conditions are not reassessed during this process, as the transfer is considered a technical update rather than a new residence application.

Processing time and HR considerations

Once the application is submitted, the new residence card is typically issued within five to six weeks. Standard fees are around €67, with reduced rates applying to certain nationalities. During the processing period, the employee remains legally authorised to work. Travel abroad is generally possible if the individual carries both passports, the existing Blue Card, the Zusatzblatt and proof that the new card has been ordered.

For HR teams, early appointment booking and close monitoring of processing timelines are essential to avoid any disruption to the employee’s legal status and to ensure continued compliance with German immigration rules.

As reported by International Investment experts, transferring an EU Blue Card in Germany is a relatively straightforward administrative procedure, but timing and documentation are critical. For employers with international staff, proactive migration management remains a key element of workforce continuity and regulatory compliance.