TRC (Karta Pobytu) vs Blue card in Poland
What is a Blue card means in Poland?
The Blue Card in Poland is a type of residence and work permit designed for highly skilled non-European Union (EU) workers who wish to live and work in Poland. It is part of a broader EU initiative to attract and retain skilled professionals from non-EU countries to support the region's economic development.
EU Blue Card requirements in Poland
Eligibility for the EU Blue Card in Poland necessitates fulfilling the subsequent criteria:
- Possession of a valid work contract or a confirmed job offer within a high-qualification profession, lasting at least 12 months.
- Successful completion of a university study program lasting a minimum of three years.
- Earning a gross salary that aligns with the specified threshold in Poland.
- Adherence to Poland's national legal requisites, particularly applicable to regulated professions.
- Meeting the necessary higher professional qualifications, particularly for professions that lack specific regulations.
- Absence of any security threat to public order or the national security of Poland.
What Is the Minimum Salary Threshold for an EU Blue Card in Poland?
The minimum salary threshold for an Poland EU Blue Card is 150% of the average salary for the last quarter. For second quarter of 2023 amount is 10,508.64 zł. Please note that the threshold may change each quarter, so it's essential to stay updated on the latest figures.
All Benefits of Blue card in Poland
Compared to a regular temporary residence permit, holding a Polish Blue Card offers several notable advantages and benefits:
Family Benefits:
Education Opportunities:
EU Residence Card Consideration:
Simplified Employment Changes:
Flexible Stay Options :
Other valuable benefits are:
Paid Leave and Rest Days:
Annual Leave:
Family-Related Leaves:
Sickness and Study Leave:
Social Benefits:
Working Hours and Compensation:
Equal Treatment:
These benefits of blue card in Poland an attractive option for foreign professionals, promoting family integration, education opportunities, seamless mobility within the EU, and easier transitions in the job market within Poland.
Family Benefits:
- Family members of a Blue Card holder do not require a separate work permit to be employed in Poland.
Education Opportunities:
- Children of a Blue Card holder have access to education in Poland on the same free basis as Polish citizens.
EU Residence Card Consideration:
- Periods spent in other EU countries on a Blue Card are counted when applying for the EU Residence Card in Poland, provided the applicant has resided with the Blue Card in Poland for the last 2 years within the 5-year period.
Simplified Employment Changes:
- After 2 years of living and working in Poland on the Blue Card, if changing employer or position, there's no need to reapply. Informing local authorities of the employment change is sufficient.
Flexible Stay Options :
- Blue Card holders can stay in Poland without employment for up to 3 months, offering flexibility in their residency status.
Other valuable benefits are:
Paid Leave and Rest Days:
- Paid leaves and two rest days per week (Saturday and Sunday).
- 13 public holidays, with extra paid leave if a holiday falls on a rest day.
Annual Leave:
- 20 days of annual leave for workers with less than ten years of employment.
- 26 days of annual leave for workers with ten or more years of employment.
Family-Related Leaves:
- Maternity leave based on the number of children born, ranging from 20 to 37 weeks.
- 8 weeks of parental leave for both parents.
Sickness and Study Leave:
- Sickness leave for up to 33 days (14 days for workers over 50 years old).
- Study leave for various purposes, including exams and professional qualifications.
Social Benefits:
- Free movement within the EU and within Poland.
- Accompanying family members can join the Blue Card holder in Poland.
- Access to healthcare, education, vocational training, and public goods and services.
Working Hours and Compensation:
- Regular working hours capped at 8 hours per day or an average of 40 hours per week.
- Overtime compensation for work beyond standard hours, especially on specific days.
Equal Treatment:
- Blue Card holders are entitled to equal treatment compared to Polish nationals, ensuring no workplace discrimination.
These benefits of blue card in Poland an attractive option for foreign professionals, promoting family integration, education opportunities, seamless mobility within the EU, and easier transitions in the job market within Poland.
Is It Possible to Change Employers or Job Positions While Holding an EU Blue Card in Poland?
For the initial two years of residing in Poland with an EU Blue Card in a high-qualification profession, changing employers or job positions is not permitted. The employment must align with the details specified in the issued Blue Card.
Can My Family Join Me in Poland if I Hold an EU Blue Card?
Yes, family members (spouse and children under 18) of an EU Blue Card holder can accompany them to Poland, provided there is sufficient financial support and suitable accommodation. Family members enjoy the same rights and privileges as the Blue Card holder.
Can My EU Blue Card in Poland Be Revoked?
Yes, the EU Blue Card can be revoked if the holder violates labor market access restrictions. Instances such as changing employers, job roles, or experiencing a reduction in remuneration during the initial two years in Poland on a Blue Card can lead to its cancellation.
Is the EU Blue Card for Poland Valid in Other Countries?
The EU Blue Card issued by Poland is exclusively valid within Poland's borders. It does not grant work authorization in other countries. However, it does permit travel within the EU, albeit without engaging in gainful employment.
