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01.08.2010
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EU and US cards' differences

EU has its own "Green Card"

25th of May a decision was taken in EU to adopt a Blue Card, with a purpose to attract high skilled specialist to work in the EU states. The card reminds about American Green Card giving a freedom to work, travel and live in the USA. The EU permit allows for restricted movement between member states. "After 18 months of legal residence in the first member state as an EU Blue Card holder, the person concerned and his family members may move, under certain conditions, to a member state other than the first member state for the purpose of highly qualified employment,".
2009-05-26

The new structure was criticized by some states because of discrimination of local employees and also for interfering into national labor markets. On the other hand this is a kind of tool fighting with employing illegal residents.

Differences between EU Blue Card and American Greem Card:

 
Permanent residency:
EU Blue Card
Does not give permanent residency
US Green Card
Gives holder permanent residency
 
Validity period:
EU Blue Card
Valid up to two years, renewable
US Green Card
Valid for 10 years, renewable
 
Permissions included:
EU Blue Card
Allows holders and families to live, work and travel in EU
US Green Card
Allows holder to live, work and travel in the US
 
Application requirements:
EU Blue Card
Applicant must have one-year EU job contract with salary of three times minimum wage
US Green Card
Five channels to seek a card: employment, family links, a lottery, investment, or resident since before 1972
 
Permanent residency / citizenship:
EU Blue Card
Permanent residency automatic after five years
US Green Card
Holders can become US citizens after five years