The German government has raised the minimum salary qualifications for EU Blue Card holders effective January 1, 2014. The minimum gross salary for new Blue Card holders is now €47,600, up from €46,400 in 2013. The salary threshold for occupations with shortages is €37,128, up from €36,192 in 2013. Companies with operations in Germany should consider the increased minimum salary requirements when assigning EU Blue Card workers to avoid increased business costs.