EU Blue Card Visa (Highly Qualified Workers)
Embassy required
- Maximum stay
- 730 days
- Processing time
- Up to 90 days
- Fee
- EUR 116
- Validity
- 730 days (2 years)
- Entry
- Multiple entry
The EU Blue Card is for highly qualified non-EU workers with a higher education degree and a binding job offer or employment contract in Italy meeting minimum salary thresholds. Not subject to Decreto Flussi quotas. The minimum annual gross salary threshold is approximately 1.5 times the average gross annual salary in Italy (varies annually). Allows mobility between EU member states after 12-18 months. The revised EU Blue Card Directive (2021/1883) has been transposed by Italy, expanding eligibility to include highly skilled professionals with equivalent professional experience.
Eligibility
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Nationality
All non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals. Not available to asylum seekers, refugees in some cases, or seasonal workers.
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Financial
Minimum annual gross salary must meet the EU Blue Card threshold, approximately 1.5 times the average national gross salary.
Minimum funds: 1.5x average national gross salary (approximately EUR 28,000-35,000)
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Employment
Must have a higher education qualification (at least 3 years of study) or equivalent professional experience (at least 5 years) in the relevant field. Must have a binding employment contract meeting minimum salary thresholds.
Required status: Higher education degree or 5 years equivalent experience, binding employment contract
Documents you need
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Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 3
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Photo
Count: 2; Specifications: Passport-size, white background
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Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Employment contract and salary confirmation; Minimum amount: Met through employment contract salary
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Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
Form name: National Visa Application Form
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Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Varies by consulate; Amount: EUR 116
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Curriculum vitae
Provide a current CV showing education, work history and relevant qualifications.
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Work contract
Provide a signed job offer, contract or assignment letter showing the role, dates and employer.
Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: No
How to apply
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Online application
Italian employer applies for Nulla Osta specifying EU Blue Card. Not subject to Decreto Flussi quotas.
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Document gathering
Collect degree certificates (with apostille/legalization), CV, employment contract, passport, and photos.
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Appointment booking
Schedule appointment at Italian consulate/embassy.
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Document submission
Submit visa application with all supporting documents and Nulla Osta.
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Fee payment
Pay approximately EUR 116.
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Biometrics
Provide fingerprints as required.
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Processing wait
Processing can take up to 90 days.
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Visa collection
Collect passport. Apply for EU Blue Card residence permit within 8 days of arrival at the Questura.