Key Highlights:

• Luxembourg has increased the minimum salary requirement for the EU Blue Card from €58,968 to €63,408, representing a 7.53% increase.
• The new rules apply to all applications submitted on or after March 18, 2025.
• In 2024, Luxembourg issued 825 EU Blue Cards to third-country nationals, indicating its popularity as a destination for skilled workers.
• Other EU countries like Austria, Germany, and Hungary have also recently increased their Blue Card salary thresholds.

Understanding the EU Blue Card

The EU Blue Card is a residence and work permit designed for highly qualified non-EU nationals seeking employment in the European Union. It aims to attract skilled professionals by offering streamlined immigration procedures and better working conditions. Each member state sets its own salary threshold, with Luxembourg now increasing its requirement to reflect the rising cost of living and labor market demand.

What Prompted the Salary Hike?

Luxembourg’s decision to increase the EU Blue Card salary threshold is attributed to factors like:

• Economic Growth: As one of the wealthiest countries in the EU, Luxembourg continues to experience growth, leading to increased competition for highly skilled workers.
• Labor Market Adjustments: The adjustment ensures fair compensation for skilled employees and aligns wages with other competitive EU countries.
• Housing and Living Costs: Luxembourg’s high living costs necessitate competitive salaries to ensure a good quality of life for expats.

Impact on Applicants

Starting from March 18, 2025, all new EU Blue Card applications in Luxembourg must comply with the updated salary requirement. However, applications submitted before this date will be processed based on the previous salary threshold of €58,968.

Other Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for an EU Blue Card in Luxembourg, applicants must:

• Hold a valid passport.
• Meet visa requirements (if applicable).
• Possess a university degree or equivalent qualifications.
• Have an employment contract for a highly qualified position lasting at least six months.

EU Blue Card Statistics in Luxembourg

Luxembourg remains a preferred destination for skilled professionals. In 2024, the country issued 825 EU Blue Cards, with the highest number of 118 issued in October. Despite the new salary requirements, Luxembourg’s growing demand for specialists in sectors like IT, finance, and engineering remains evident.

Trends Across Europe

Luxembourg is not the only EU country tightening its Blue Card salary requirements. Countries like Germany, Austria, and Hungary have also increased their salary thresholds to balance migration management and address skill shortages. This trend highlights a growing emphasis on ensuring that incoming talent meets labor market needs while maintaining fair wage standards.

Future Outlook

While there is no further announced increase in the EU Blue Card salary requirement, prospective applicants need to stay informed about potential changes. Continuous assessment of economic conditions and labor market demands could lead to further adjustments.

For more information, visit the official resources:

• Luxembourg’s Administrative Portal – Guichet.lu
• Schengen News
• Ministry of Interior – Luxembourg

Conclusion

Luxembourg’s latest increase in the EU Blue Card salary threshold reflects its efforts to attract and retain top talent while ensuring fair pay. Prospective applicants should evaluate their qualifications and contract offers to ensure compliance with the new requirements. As the landscape of skilled migration evolves across Europe, staying informed about local regulations and policy changes is crucial.