EU Blue Card Poland 2026: Salary Threshold and Requirements
EU Blue Card in Poland 2026: who qualifies, the estimated salary threshold, the new 6-month contract rule, mobility in the EU and how to apply online via MOS.
The EU Blue Card (Niebieska Karta UE) is a residence and work permit for highly qualified workers. Since 1 June 2025 Poland requires a contract or job offer for at least 6 months, and in 2026 the salary threshold is estimated at about 13,355 zł gross per month – confirm the official figure before applying.
Key takeaways
- For high-skilled jobs, usually requiring a university degree or equivalent professional experience.
- Contract or binding offer for at least 6 months (it was 12 months before June 2025).
- Salary threshold 2026: approx. 13,355.34 zł gross / month (estimate, 150% of the 2025 average wage of 8,903.56 zł).
- A lower threshold may apply to shortage occupations and recent graduates.
- Easier mobility within the EU and simplified rules for families.
- Application online via MOS.
What changed in June 2025?
Poland amended its Act on Foreigners on 24 April 2025 to implement the new EU Blue Card directive (2021/1883). The changes took effect on 1 June 2025:
| Rule | Before | Since 1 June 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum contract length | 12 months | 6 months |
| Short business trips to other EU countries | Limited | Up to 90 days in any 180 |
| Moving to another EU country | Longer wait | After 12 months, simplified |
| Family members | Standard rules | Simplified procedures |
Some details still need to be confirmed in the final legal text, so treat this table as a general overview.
Salary threshold in 2026
The Blue Card threshold is calculated as 150% of the average gross monthly wage in the previous year.
| Element | Amount |
|---|---|
| Average wage 2025 (basis) | 8,903.56 zł |
| Threshold (150%) | ≈ 13,355.34 zł gross / month |
Important: this figure is an estimate based on public data. The threshold changes every year and an official announcement is decisive. For shortage occupations and recent graduates, a lower threshold may be possible. Always confirm on gov.pl or with your voivodeship office.
Who can apply?
You are generally eligible if you have:
- Higher qualifications – usually a university degree, or in some fields (for example IT) relevant professional experience may count.
- A contract or binding offer for at least 6 months for a highly qualified job.
- A salary at or above the threshold.
- Health insurance – normally covered when your employer registers you with ZUS.
- If the profession is regulated in Poland (e.g. doctors, nurses), the required recognition of your qualifications.
Blue Card vs standard residence and work permit
| EU Blue Card | Temporary residence and work permit | |
|---|---|---|
| Job level | Highly qualified | Any legal job |
| Minimum salary | ≈ 13,355 zł gross (2026, estimate) | At least minimum wage (4,806 zł gross) |
| Diploma needed | Usually yes | No |
| EU mobility | Yes, simplified | No |
| Where to apply | MOS | MOS |
Most workers in production, warehouses or construction use the standard permit – see our residence card guide.
How to apply step by step
- Get the job offer or contract (at least 6 months, salary above the threshold).
- Prepare documents: passport, photo, diploma (with sworn translation if needed), contract or offer, proof of health insurance, documents on qualifications.
- Create an account on MOS and fill in the application.
- Sign electronically with a trusted profile, qualified signature or personal signature. Since 27 April 2026, most residence applications are accepted only online.
- Pay the stamp duty – check the current amount on the voivodeship office website.
- Give fingerprints at the office when invited.
- Receive the decision and your card.
You must be legally in Poland when you apply – for example on a national visa. See the Poland work visa guide.
Benefits of the Blue Card
- Live and work in Poland with a single permit.
- Short business trips to other EU countries.
- Easier move to another EU country after a year.
- Easier family reunification.
- A path towards long-term residence status.
Taxes on higher salaries
A Blue Card salary means higher income tax and contributions than minimum-wage jobs. Read taxes for foreigners in Poland to understand PIT, tax residency and your annual return.
Find your next job
Even if you are not a Blue Card candidate, there are many legal jobs in Poland. Register for free in JobPartner and check our legalization overview. We never guarantee permits – the decision always belongs to the Polish authorities.
FAQ
What is the salary threshold for the EU Blue Card in Poland in 2026?
Based on 150% of the average wage in 2025, the threshold is estimated at about 13,355 zł gross per month. The official figure may differ and can change each year, so confirm it on gov.pl before applying.
How long must my contract be for a Blue Card?
Since 1 June 2025 a contract or binding job offer for at least 6 months is enough. Before, it was 12 months.
Can I work in other EU countries with a Polish Blue Card?
The rules allow short-term business mobility in other EU countries (up to 90 days in 180) and moving to another EU country after 12 months under simplified rules. Check the destination country's requirements.
Where do I apply for an EU Blue Card in Poland?
The Blue Card is a type of temporary residence permit, so you apply online through the MOS system (mos.cudzoziemcy.gov.pl) while you are legally in Poland.
This article is for information purposes only and is not legal advice. Laws change – check the current rules on gov.pl or ask our recruiter.