Germany’s commitment to attracting global talent reached a new milestone in 2026. Following the full rollout of the Skilled Immigration Act (FEG) and the digitized Consular Services Portal, the process is faster—but the financial requirements have shifted.
Whether you are an IT specialist aiming for an EU Blue Card or a job-seeker utilizing the Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte), understanding the official government fees and mandatory financial buffers is the first step to a successful application. This guide breaks down every Euro you’ll need for your German work visa journey in 2026.
Core Visa & Processing Fees (The “Direct” Costs)
These fees are paid at the start of your journey, typically at a German Embassy or through a service partner like VFS Global.
- What Are These Fees? These are the main fees you pay when you apply for your visa. You pay them at the German Embassy or at a center like VFS Global.
- National Visa (Category D) Fee The basic fee for a long-term work visa is €75. This is for adults. You pay it in your local money, based on the exchange rate.
- Reduced Fee for Minors If you bring your children under 18 years old, their fee is only €37.50.
- Consular Services Portal (Online Fee) In 2026, you do most applications online first. The basic check is free. But some special cases may have a small extra fee.
- VFS Global / Service Partner Surcharge In some countries, like India or Pakistan, you use a center like VFS Global. They take your fingerprints and papers. You pay them an extra fee. It is usually €30 to €40.
- Non-Refundable Processing Charge The €75 fee is just for processing your application. If your visa is rejected, you do not get the money back. This is important to remember.
These direct costs are the first money you spend. They are not too high, but you must pay them carefully.
2026 Salary Thresholds: The “Blue Card” Reality
Why Salary Matters
For the EU Blue Card, your job contract must pay enough money. The government sets these amounts every year. They change with inflation and pension rules.
Salary Table for EU Blue Card in 2026
| Visa Type | Annual Gross Salary (2026) | Monthly Gross Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Standard EU Blue Card | €50,700 | €4,225 |
| Shortage Occupations (Mangelberufe) | €45,934.20 | €3,827.85 |
| New Entrant (Graduated <3 years ago) | €45,934.20 | €3,827.85 |
| IT Specialists (No Degree) | €45,934.20 | €3,827.85 |
These numbers come from official rules. Shortage jobs include IT, engineering, healthcare, and more.
Special Rule for Workers Over 45
If you are over 45 and this is your first time coming to Germany for work, you need a higher salary. It must be at least €55,770 per year. Or you must prove you have good pension savings. This rule stops people from using social help later.
Salary is very important. Check your job offer before you apply. If it is too low, your application will not work.
The Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) & Blocked Accounts
What is the Opportunity Card?
This card is for people who want to come to Germany to look for a job. It replaced the old Job Seeker Visa for many people. You can stay up to one year. You do not need a job offer first.
Financial Proof You Need
Because you have no job yet, you must show money for living costs.
- Blocked Account (Sperrkonto) 2026 You must put money in a special bank account. You can take only a little each month. The amount is €1,091 net per month. For 12 months, you need €13,092 total. This money proves you can live without help from the government.
- ZAB Statement of Comparability If your degree is not in the Anabin database, you need a check from ZAB. This costs €208. It is a digital paper that says your degree is good.
- Declaration of Commitment (Verpflichtungserklärung) If you have no blocked account, a family member or friend in Germany can help. They sign a paper to pay for you. This costs about €29 at their local office.
The Opportunity Card is good for job hunters. But the money proof is strict. Save enough before you apply.
Post-Arrival: Local Immigration Office Fees
After You Arrive in Germany
Your visa lets you enter. But you need a real residence card in Germany.
- Residence Permit (Aufenthaltstitel) Issuance Go to the local office (Ausländerbehörde). The fee for your first electronic card is €100 to €110.
- Permit Extension Fee When you renew your permit, it costs €93 to €96.
- Settlement Permit (Niederlassungserlaubnis) This is permanent residency. If you have a Blue Card and B1 German, you can apply after 21 months. The fee is €113 to €147.
These fees are paid in Germany. Plan for them after you arrive.
Imagine a timeline: Start with visa fee €75 at home. Then blocked account if needed. Arrive, pay €100-110 for card. Later, renew or get permanent.
FAQ: Germany Work Visa Costs 2026
Is the €75 fee paid online or in person?
In 2026, you get digital pre-approval first. Then you pay the €75 at your appointment. It is at the Embassy or VFS center.
Does the blocked account amount change every year?
Yes. It follows the student aid rate (Bafög). In 2026, it is €1,091 per month for job seekers.
Can I pay my visa fees in Euros?
Most places want local money. But some centers take credit cards now.
These questions are common. Always check the latest rules.
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Verify your Degree Look in Anabin database. If your degree is not there, pay €208 for ZAB check.
- Check your Contract Make sure your salary is at least €50,700. Or €45,934.20 if it is a shortage job.
- Fund your Sperrkonto If you use Opportunity Card, put €13,092 in the blocked account. Do this before your appointment.
- Register Locally After you arrive, register your address in two weeks. This is called Anmeldung. Do not forget, or you may pay a fine.
Follow these steps slowly. It makes your application strong.
Would you like me to help you check if your specific job title falls under the 2026 “Shortage Occupation” list for a lower salary threshold?
Disclaimer: This article is for information only. It is not official advice. Always check the latest details on sites like “Make it in Germany” or the German Foreign Office. Rules can change. Do your own check before you spend money.