What changed in 2026
The key changes affecting visas, residence permits and citizenship. We update this page as news comes in.
Updated: September 2026
- 2026
New Blue Card thresholds
The standard threshold is €50,700 a year; the reduced threshold of €45,935 applies to shortage occupations, graduates from the last 3 years and IT specialists without a degree.
Read more → - 2026
Blocked account for the Opportunity Card
Proof of funds requires at least €1,091 a month, i.e. €13,092 for a year, or a formal declaration of commitment.
Read more → - 2026
Digital visa D applications expand
More embassies accept Blue Card, Chancenkarte, work, student and family reunion applications via the Auslandsportal. Freelance, language course and au pair visas are still paper-only at many embassies.
Read more → - 2026
Qualification recognition online
Applications for recognition of professional qualifications can be submitted online via BundID.
Read more → - 2026
Compulsory health insurance threshold
With a salary above €77,400 a year you can choose between statutory and private health insurance.
Read more → - Draft
Pension insurance for new self-employed people
A government commission has proposed mandatory pension insurance for new Selbstständige. The law hasn't been passed.
Read more → - 30.10.2025
Citizenship only after 5 years
Fast-track naturalisation after 3 years was abolished. The standard period is 5 years of lawful residence; years on § 24 count.
Read more → - 01.07.2025
Remonstration abolished
The usual procedure of appealing a visa refusal by letter to the consulate no longer applies: the options are a new application or court.
Read more →
Rules change. Before applying, check the current information from the embassy or Ausländerbehörde.