EU Blue Card — Frequently Asked Questions
Your gross annual salary must be at least 1.5 times the Polish national average. For shortage occupations (including IT), the threshold is 1.0 times the average. The exact figures change each year, we verify the current thresholds as part of your application.
During the first two years, changing employers requires notifying the Voivodeship Office and amending the residence permit. After two years, you can change employers through a simplified procedure. If you are considering a change, we will guide you through the process and help ensure that all the necessary formalities are completed.
The Blue Card combines work and residence authorization in one document, offers EU-wide mobility after 12 months, provides easier family reunification, and counts toward EU long-term residence. A standard work permit has none of these advantages.
Yes. Blue Card holders benefit from faster and easier family reunification compared to standard residence permits. Your spouse and children can apply for residence permits with simplified requirements.
Processing times vary, but typically 5–6 months at the Małopolska voivodeship office. The exact timeline depends on the office workload and completeness of your documents.