The EU Blue Card: who it’s for and how to get it
Updated 10 July 2026
Are you a highly qualified professional aiming for France? The EU Blue Card is a residence permit designed to attract talent, with a real advantage: mobility within the European Union. Here are the conditions and its benefits.
What is the EU Blue Card?
It is a multi-year residence permit for non-European highly qualified workers. It belongs to the “Talent” family of permits and stands out for a rare benefit: intra-EU mobility, which allows you, after a period in a first country, to go work in another member state.
The main conditions
- Qualification: a higher education degree (at least a bachelor’s / bac+3) or several years of relevant professional experience.
- Employment contract: a permanent contract or a fixed-term contract of at least 6 months with an employer established in France.
- Pay: a salary at least equal to a threshold set by decree and revised each year (well above the average salary). Check the amount in force at the time of application.
Duration and benefits
The card is issued for up to 4 years, usually aligned with the contract. It makes it easier for the family (spouse and children) to stay and opens, after a given period, mobility to another EU country. It is often the most advantageous option for a highly qualified profile.
Blue Card or talent passport?
Both target qualified profiles. The difference lies mainly in the salary threshold (higher for the Blue Card) and in European mobility, specific to the Blue Card. The right choice depends on your salary, your project and your mobility needs.
This article is provided for general information purposes, up to date with the rules known in 2026, and does not constitute personalized legal advice. Amounts and thresholds change: check the figures in force at the time of your application. Legalist is a private administrative assistance company, independent of any public authority.
Frequently asked questions
What degree do you need for the EU Blue Card?
In principle a higher education degree of at least three years (bac+3), or otherwise several years of relevant professional experience.
What type of contract is required?
A permanent contract or a fixed-term contract of at least 6 months with an employer established in France.
Does the Blue Card allow working in another EU country?
Yes, that is its main advantage: after a given period in the first state, mobility to another European Union country is made easier.
Can my family come with me?
Yes, the EU Blue Card opens a simplified procedure for the spouse and children.