New salary threshold for the “Talent – Qualified Employee” residence permit
The “Talent – Qualified Employee” residence permit covers employees on assignment, employees of a young innovative company and young graduates.
Effective August 31, 2025, these residence permits now have a standardized salary threshold, no longer based on the minimum wage (SMIC), but on an average annual gross salary set by ministerial order.
The ministerial order of August 29, 2025 sets the average annual gross salary applicable to the “Talent – Qualified Employee” residence permit at EUR 39,582.
This change enhances the attractiveness of the “Talent – Qualified Employee” scheme, as the applicable salary threshold has been reduced by 8% compared with the previous level.
New salary threshold for the “Talent – EU Blue Card” residence permit
For the “Talent – EU Blue Card” residence permit, the method of calculation remains unchanged: the salary threshold continues to be set at 1.5 times the average annual gross salary established by ministerial order.
In light of the new average annual gross salary set by the ministerial order of August 29, 2025 , the applicable threshold for the “Talent – EU Blue Card” residence permit is now EUR 59,373.
Erickson Insights & Analysis
Erickson Immigration Group will continue monitoring developments and sharing updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or if you have case-specific questions.