Czechia has announced that it will raise the minimum salary threshold for non-EU nationals applying for the EU Blue Card, aligning with similar changes made by other European Union member states. The updated requirement, set to take effect on May 1, 2025, reflects the country’s ongoing adjustments to its immigration and labor market policies.
The new gross monthly salary requirement for EU Blue Card applicants in Czechia will rise from CZK 65,012 (€2,611) to CZK 69,248 (€2,781), marking an increase of 6.51 percent. Despite the hike, the EU Blue Card remains one of the most attractive pathways for highly qualified third-country nationals seeking employment within the EU, and the change is not expected to significantly deter prospective applicants.
Key Requirements for the EU Blue Card in Czechia
To qualify for an EU Blue Card in Czechia, non-EU applicants must meet a number of eligibility criteria, including the updated salary condition. Specifically:
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Applicants must hold a valid employment contract for a position requiring high qualifications, with a minimum duration of six months.
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For regulated professions, applicants must present documents proving compliance with national legal requirements.
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For unregulated professions, proof of higher professional qualifications or skills is required.
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Applicants must also submit a valid travel document, proof of accommodation, a completed application form, a recent photograph, and a police clearance certificate from their home country.
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They must not pose a threat to public policy or security.
The gross salary stated in the employment contract must meet or exceed the required amount, and benefits, bonuses, or allowances are not included in the salary calculation.
Additional Conditions for Family Members
As noted by Fragomen, individuals applying for the EU Blue Card who also wish to sponsor dependents must demonstrate that they meet the minimum subsistence requirements in addition to the salary threshold. Importantly, the updated salary threshold will apply to new applications, pending applications, and renewals, as well as existing cardholders.
Validity and Processing Time
Once issued, the Czech EU Blue Card is valid for three years, offering a long-term solution for skilled professionals seeking to work and live in the country. The standard processing time for an EU Blue Card application in Czechia is approximately 90 days.
Regional Context
Czechia’s decision follows a similar move by Luxembourg, which recently increased its own minimum salary requirement for EU Blue Card applicants. Effective March 18, 2025, candidates in Luxembourg must demonstrate a minimum annual salary of €65,408 to be eligible.
These developments reflect a broader trend across the EU to update immigration standards in line with labor market needs, economic conditions, and rising living costs. For highly skilled professionals from outside the EU, the EU Blue Card remains a valuable gateway to employment opportunities and residence within the European Union.
