EU Blue Card: frequently asked questions
Your gross monthly salary must be at least 150% of the average monthly wage in the national economy for the previous year, as announced by GUS. For 2026 applications that means at least 13,355.34 PLN gross per month (150% of the 2025 GUS average of 8,903.56 PLN). There is no reduced threshold for shortage occupations such as IT. The figure changes each year, we verify the current threshold as part of your application.
For a Blue Card granted since 1 June 2025, you can change employers and tell the voivode in writing within 15 working days; you do not need to amend the permit. For a Blue Card granted before that date, the old rules still apply: in the first two years a change of employer needs a change of the permit. If you are considering a change, we check which rules apply to your card and prepare the notification or the permit change with you.
The Blue Card combines work and residence authorization in one document, offers EU-wide mobility after 12 months and provides easier family reunification. A standard work permit has none of these advantages. Time on a Blue Card and time on an ordinary temporary residence permit for work both count toward EU long-term residence.
Yes. Family reunification is easier for Blue Card holders than for standard residence permits. Your spouse and children can apply with simplified requirements.
Decision times depend on the voivodeship office. The Permit Barometer at the top of this page shows the current average for each office, and many people wait longer than the average. The exact timeline also depends on the completeness of your documents.