Actually, as a Blue Card holder, you can file for permanent residency after 33 months. If you learn language to at least B1 level, you can file after only 21 mo

Actually, as a Blue Card holder, you can file for permanent residency after 33 months. If you learn language to at least B1 level, you can file after only 21 months. In addition to that, you partner automatically gets work permit without restriction, and you are eligible for all social benefits like health care and Kindergeld from the day one. Compare that with the H1B / Green Card situation, and the contrast is clear. It was an easy choice for me (yes, I had job offers from both USA and Germany), and will probably attract more people in the future.