What is the European Union Blue Card?

The blue card is proposed legislation that would allow skilled migrants to live and work in the European Union. The program is designed to create a more unified immigration structure for the EU in replacement of the 27 different immigration policies in place now.

How long is the blue card issued for?

The EU blue card would be issued for an initial, renewable two years.

Can I work anywhere in the EU?

The blue card would be good for any EU country that opts in, where the migrant has an eligible job contract. For the first two years, the migrant must live and work in this country. If renewed, the migrant can move to any other country if he/she can find work there.

Who is eligible for a blue card?

To be eligible for a blue card, a person would need a university degree with three years of study or five years of professional experience, or a combination of both. Details are still pending. A job offer from an EU employer would also be required under current plans, with a salary at some factor above the base salary of his or her country of residence. The employer offering the job would be required to prove that the job could not be filled by an EU citizen.

Can I bring my family with me?

Yes. A Blue Card holder would be able to apply at once for his or her immediate family to join them in the EU country.

What rights would I have as a blue card holder?

A blue card holder would be able to travel throughout the European Union, be eligible for family reunification, receive tax benefits, social assistance, and payment of pensions. One of the intents of the blue card is to grant the same labor-related rights that EU citizens enjoy.

Can I apply for permanent residence in an EU country if I hold a blue card?

After a proposed period of five years living and working within the EU, you would be able to apply for permanent residence in the EU country you live in.

When will the blue card be implemented?

It's hard to say. All 27 EU-member nations need to sign on to the proposed legislation, which is meeting resistance by some members (see here, for an example).