EU Blue Card Salary Threshold Rises to PLN 13,355 in February 2026
Poland raised the minimum salary requirement for the EU Blue Card (high-skilled worker visa) from PLN 12,272.58 to PLN 13,355.34 gross monthly, effective February 9, 2026. The change reflects updated Polish wage averages and makes qualification slightly more competitive.
From February 9, 2026, a new salary threshold applies – PLN 13,355.34 gross per month (an increase of PLN 1,082.76 compared to 2025). The EU Blue Card (Niebieska Karta UE) is Poland's fast-track residence and work permit for highly qualified professionals from non-EU countries.
What Changed in 2025–2026
The reforms introduced in 2025 significantly simplified the procedure for obtaining and using the EU Blue Card in Poland, with abolition of the labour market test, shortened contract period requirements, and greater flexibility in changing employers making Poland a more attractive destination for highly qualified specialists from third countries. Under the 2025/2026 updates, Blue Card holders have the right to conduct business activity (JDG) in Poland, however, your primary stay purpose must still be the high-skilled employment contract that met the salary threshold.
Processing Timeline and Benefits
Processing time averages 4–9 months, with processing times varying significantly by region including Warsaw (7-8 months) and Kraków (8-9 months). Time spent on a Blue Card in other EU countries counts toward your EU Long-Term Residency after living in Poland for 2 years.
If you are a highly skilled professional from outside the EU earning PLN 13,355+ per month gross, the EU Blue Card remains Poland's most flexible work visa, offering faster permanent residency eligibility, intra-EU mobility after 12 months, and the ability to change employers with fewer restrictions than standard work permits. Apply through your voivodeship office (urząd wojewódzki) or consulate.
Sources
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