EU Blue Card
Permit for highly qualified specialists — easier access to the EU labor market.
The EU Blue Card (Niebieska Karta UE) is a temporary residence and work permit for highly qualified professions (Article 127 of the Act on Foreigners). It is intended for foreigners with higher education (a university diploma and its sworn translation are required) or with confirmed professional experience (proof of experience and a sworn translation are required).
Requirements
- a contract (employment, civil-law, or outwork) concluded for at least 6 months;
- proof of qualifications (diploma or experience);
- salary requirement — gross annual salary of at least 150% of the average salary in the national economy for the previous year (announced by GUS);
- health insurance (ZUS or private insurance policy);
- proof of accommodation in Poland.
Blue Card advantages over a regular permit
Ability to change employers (notifying the voivode within 15 business days instead of amending the decision); protection in case of job loss (the permit is not revoked if unemployment lasts up to 3 months, and after 2 years on the Card — up to 6 months); EU mobility — after a period of residence in one member state, easier transfer to another; faster path to EU long-term resident status (combining periods from different member states).
What the GetPermit service includes
- verification of the salary threshold and qualifications;
- compiling documents (diplomas/sworn translations if needed);
- submitting the application via MOS + confirmation of submission;
- handling employer changes and notification obligations.
Deadlines and official fees
Stamp duty 440 PLN, residence card 100 PLN, power of attorney fee 17 PLN.
Obligations after the decision
Notifying the voivode within 15 business days of job loss, change of employer, or ceasing to meet the conditions. If the office exceeds deadlines, you can file a reminder for failure to act.