This page compares Germany’s Work Visa for Qualified Professionals (Section 18a/18b AufenthG) and Portugal’s Cartão Azul UE / AR para Trabalho Altamente Qualificado (EU Blue Card) — the work visa routes we track for each country — using figures compiled from official government sources. Where a figure is not published for one country, the cell is left blank rather than estimated.
At a Glance
Germany
Work Visa for Qualified Professionals (Section 18a/18b AufenthG)
- Minimum income: €3,803/mo
- Minimum savings: €10,000
- Initial permit: 48 months
Portugal
Cartão Azul UE / AR para Trabalho Altamente Qualificado (EU Blue Card)
- Minimum income: €1,753/mo
- Minimum savings: €10,000
- Initial permit: 24 months
Requirements Side by Side
| Requirement | Germany | Portugal |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum income | €3,803/mo | €1,753/mo |
| Minimum savings | €10,000 | €10,000 |
| Initial permit length | 48 months | 24 months |
| Processing time | 21 days | 90 days |
| Years to citizenship | — | 10 years |
| Family reunification | Yes | — |
What the Data Shows
Each line reflects a single published figure — not an overall recommendation. The right choice depends on your profile.
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Get Your Free VerdictFrequently Asked Questions
What income do you need for the Germany vs the Portugal work visa?
Germany's Work Visa for Qualified Professionals (Section 18a/18b AufenthG) lists a minimum of €3,803 per month; Portugal's Cartão Azul UE / AR para Trabalho Altamente Qualificado (EU Blue Card) lists €1,753 per month.
How long does processing take in Germany vs Portugal?
Published processing time is 21 days for Germany's Work Visa for Qualified Professionals (Section 18a/18b AufenthG) and 90 days for Portugal's Cartão Azul UE / AR para Trabalho Altamente Qualificado (EU Blue Card).
How long is the initial permit in Germany vs Portugal?
Germany's Work Visa for Qualified Professionals (Section 18a/18b AufenthG) is initially issued for 48 months; Portugal's Cartão Azul UE / AR para Trabalho Altamente Qualificado (EU Blue Card) for 24 months.
Figures relate to the specific programmes named above and were last re-checked 2026-06-24. Always confirm on the official pages linked below before applying.