Poland Relaxes EU Blue Card Regulations to Draw More Foreign Workers in 2025

Poland is enhancing its EU Blue Card program with significant changes effective June 1, 2025. These updates aim to expand eligibility, simplify hiring, and facilitate job mobility for skilled workers across the EU. By easing these regulations, Poland is positioning itself as a welcoming destination for international talent.

These reforms align with Poland’s commitment to the 2021 EU Blue Card Directive. They create new opportunities for highly skilled individuals looking to work or relocate within the EU. Let’s dive into the key changes and what they mean for potential workers in Poland.

Key Changes to Poland’s EU Blue Card System

1. Recognizing Professional Experience Over Degrees

• What’s New: Applicants can now qualify for the EU Blue Card with at least three years of relevant work experience in the past seven years, even without a higher education degree.
• Who Qualifies: This option is available for specific professions listed by the Minister of Interior and Administration.
• Why It Matters: Previously, a degree or five years of experience was necessary. Now, Poland opens its doors to skilled professionals without formal qualifications but with valuable expertise.

2. Shortened Contract Duration Requirements

• Old Rule: Applicants previously needed a signed employment contract with a minimum duration of 12 months.
• New Rule: As of June 1, 2025, the minimum contract duration is reduced to six months. This change allows employers to offer trial positions and hire more quickly.
• Why It Matters: This flexibility benefits both employers and employees, especially during common trial or probation periods in Poland.

3. Open Access to the Polish Job Market

• What’s New: EU Blue Card holders in Poland can now change jobs freely. However, the new position must meet the “highly qualified” criteria, and applicants must notify the immigration office.
• Why It Matters: This change enhances job mobility, providing better opportunities for workers and helping employers retain top talent without bureaucratic obstacles.

4. Easier Intra-EU Mobility

• What’s New: If you have lived in another EU country for at least 12 months on an EU Blue Card, you can move to Poland and start working after applying for a Polish EU Blue Card mobility permit.
• Why It Matters: Companies can relocate skilled staff to Poland more efficiently, allowing individuals to plan international moves with fewer delays.

5. Simplified Path to Long-Term EU Residency

• What’s New: Time spent in other EU countries on certain residence permits, like researcher or highly skilled permits, counts toward the five-year requirement for the EU Long-term Residence Permit.
• Key Note: Applicants still need to have spent the last two years in Poland under an EU Blue Card.
• Why It Matters: This simplifies the path to long-term settlement, increasing the retention of foreign talent in Poland.

Why This Is Big News for Skilled Workers and Employers

Poland faces a rising demand for highly qualified professionals, particularly in IT, engineering, healthcare, and finance. These updates aim to bridge those gaps by making it easier to:

• Hire qualified foreign professionals quickly.
• Retain skilled workers longer.
• Attract EU-based talent to relocate to Poland.

Thinking of Working in Poland?

If you’re considering a career in Poland, now is an excellent time to explore opportunities under the EU Blue Card. The system is more accessible, the job market is expanding, and the path to long-term residency is clearer than ever. Embrace this chance to advance your career in Poland!