Applying for a Blue Card (a work visa for highly qualified professionals) is a complex and time-consuming task. The traditional process requires extensive analogue paperwork, long waiting times and lots of confusing steps in between. This can not only deter potential (much needed) professionals, but also reduce the efficiency of the application process for immigration offices.
The mobile app Blue Card Buddy was created with a classmate (Emma-Luisa Sachse) and shows how this process could be redesigned as an iOS App. The most central focus of the app being the digital handling of the paperwork and application process. Furthermore the app aims to provide valuable content to applicants during waiting times or even after receiving the Blue Card.
Goals
After analysing the state of the application process, discussing with former Blue Card applicants and diving deep into the conditions & requirements for the app, we created a list of goals.
Applying from anywhere made possible by covering the complete process via the app. Great document management and application form interface to prevent mistakes. Transparency of application status and next steps. Supporting integration efforts through language & living in Germany content.
Concept stage & wireframes
Execution
Challenges
The biggest challenge of the project was to simplify a complex process, specifically the document management. This was solved by utilising a placeholder concept with status icons to give clear overview of what is missing. Additionally a lot of time was spent transforming the application PDF into a step by step form. This should ensure that mistakes or missing entries are recongised by the applicant without requiring feedback by the immigration authority.
Prototype Video