The Blue Card (EU Blue Card) is a temporary residence permit for the purpose of performing work in a profession requiring high qualifications. This type of residence and work permit can be applied for by a foreigner who:
a) Works in a profession requiring a university degree and has completed studies lasting at least 3 years,
b) Has at least five years of professional experience at a level that is comparable to the level of qualification that can be obtained as a result of the university degree required for the job in question.
In addition to meeting one of the above-mentioned criteria, a foreigner must also demonstrate that their annual gross salary is no less than 150% of the average salary in the national economy in the year preceding the application. This amount is announced by the President of the Central Statistical Office.
How to get a Blue Card?
The procedure for obtaining this permit is the same as for a standard temporary residence and work permit. The difference, however, is the list of documents that must be submitted to the authority conducting the proceedings. The case file for a temporary residence permit application for highly skilled work requires documents confirming that one of the two aforementioned conditions has been met. Additionally, not only Appendix No. 1 from the employer must be prepared, but also Appendix No. 2, completed by the foreigner, which is not required for other temporary residence and work permit applications.
What are the benefits of obtaining a Blue Card?
Obtaining an EU Blue Card offers a number of benefits for foreigners. First, it's worth noting that this permit allows for significant flexibility in the labor market and eliminates many of the drawbacks associated with a standard residence card. First and foremost, a foreigner changing employers doesn't need to submit a new permit application; instead, they only need to amend the existing permit. Furthermore, for the first two years of employment under the card, it's possible to change the type of contract and working hours, provided the office is notified. After two years from commencing work under the EU Blue Card, the foreigner can change their employer or position without changing their permit. Furthermore, family members who obtain a temporary residence permit for family reunification purposes have free access to the Polish labor market without the need for a work permit. Another benefit of having a Blue Card is the ability to relocate to another EU Member State to pursue highly skilled work. A foreigner obtains this option after 18 months of legal residence on the basis of an EU Blue Card; additionally, his family members can also move to another country with the foreigner.
This alert is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
