Can students convert to Blue Card?
Many international students in Europe ask an important question after completing their studies: Can I convert my student status to a Blue Card?
The answer is yes, students can convert to a Blue Card, but only if specific conditions are met. This guide explains the rules clearly, with a special focus on Malta and the EU system.
What Is a Blue Card?
The EU Blue Card is a work and residence permit for highly skilled non-EU nationals. It allows you to live and work legally in an EU country and offers a pathway to long-term residence.
In Malta, the Blue Card is issued under EU rules and managed by immigration authorities.
Can Students Convert Directly to a Blue Card?
Students cannot convert directly from a student visa to a Blue Card while studying.
However, students can apply for a Blue Card after completing their studies, if they meet all eligibility requirements.
So, the correct path is:
Student Visa → Graduate → Job Offer → Blue Card
Who Is Eligible to Convert to a Blue Card?
To convert to a Blue Card, a former student must:
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Hold a recognized university degree
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Receive a qualified job offer related to their studies
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Meet the minimum salary threshold
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Have a valid employment contract
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Work in a high-skilled occupation
Authorities assess both your qualification and salary level.
Can Students Apply for a Blue Card in Malta?
Yes. International graduates in Malta can apply for a Malta Blue Card, provided they meet the conditions set by immigration authorities and the EU framework.
Applications are processed through Identity Malta.
Salary Requirement for a Blue Card
Salary thresholds vary by country and profession.
In general, you must earn:
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At least 1.5 times the average national salary
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Slightly lower thresholds may apply for shortage occupations
Your employer must confirm the salary in your contract.
Can I Apply for a Blue Card Before Graduation?
No. You must:
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Complete your degree
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Receive final results or certificate
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Secure a full-time job offer
A Blue Card is not issued based on enrollment or part-time work.
What Types of Jobs Qualify for a Blue Card?
Blue Card–eligible roles usually include:
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IT professionals
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Engineers
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Data analysts
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Finance specialists
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Healthcare professionals
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Scientific researchers
The job must match your academic qualification.
Documents Required to Convert to a Blue Card
Typical documents include:
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Valid passport
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Degree certificate or completion proof
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Employment contract
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Salary details
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Health insurance
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Proof of accommodation
Authorities may request additional documents.
Can Students Work While Waiting for Blue Card Approval?
Yes, if:
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You already hold a post-study work permit
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Your stay remains legally valid
You must not overstay or work outside permitted conditions.
Does the Blue Card Replace the Student Residence Permit?
Yes. Once approved:
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Your student residence permit ends
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You receive a Blue Card residence permit
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Your legal status changes from student to employee
This gives you stronger rights in the EU.
Benefits of Converting to a Blue Card
A Blue Card offers:
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Legal long-term stay
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Faster permanent residence pathway
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Family reunification rights
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Job mobility within the EU
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Strong employment protection
It is one of the best options for international graduates.
When Is Conversion Not Possible?
You cannot convert if:
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Your job is low-skilled
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Salary is below the threshold
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Degree is not recognized
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Employer is not compliant
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Your visa has expired
Planning ahead is essential.
Final Answer: Can Students Convert to a Blue Card?
Yes, students can convert to a Blue Card after completing their studies, once they secure a high-skilled job with the required salary and meet immigration rules.
This makes the Blue Card a powerful next step for students who want to build a long-term career in Europe.
SEO Details
Page Title:
Can Students Convert to Blue Card in Europe? Rules & Eligibility
Meta Keywords:
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Meta Description:
Can international students convert to a Blue Card? Learn eligibility, salary rules, process, and post-study options.
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OG Title:
Can Students Convert to a Blue Card in Europe?
OG Description:
Yes, after graduation. Learn who qualifies, salary rules, and how students can move to a Blue Card.
X Title:
Student to Blue Card: Is It Possible?
X Description:
Graduated in Europe? Learn how students can convert to a Blue Card and work legally long-term.
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Can Students Convert to a Blue Card?
Schema Description:
An explanatory guide on whether international students can convert to an EU Blue Card after studies, including eligibility, salary rules, and process.
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