The EU Blue Card: Your Ticket to the Future
The EU Blue Card is far more than a residence permit. For highly skilled professionals, it means security, career growth and access to the opportunities of the EU labour market. For Europe, it’s a strategic tool to attract and retain the brightest minds.
In today’s global economy, knowledge is one of the most important resources. Whether engineers, doctors or IT specialists, quality workforce is in short supply - and in high demand. Nations are fiercely competing for talent, but the EU’s ace in the hole is clearly the EU Blue Card.
Why professionals are choosing the EU Blue Card
Across the world, ever more specialists are looking to Europe as the place to build their futures. The Blue Card is central to this choice. Unlike other permits, it is tailored for those in roles requiring advanced qualifications. Think of it as a fast-track ticket into the EU labour market - one that also keeps doors open for long-term career development.
Why did the EU create the Blue Card?
The EU Blue Card is the European Union's response to the global competition for talent, and the brain drain phenomenon. Its aim is to enable highly qualified professionals from third countries to build a career in Europe, particularly those who have obtained their qualifications in the EU or at internationally recognized institutions. The aim is to use their knowledge to strengthen the EU's competitiveness. The new Directive (2021/1883/EU) has created more flexible entry conditions (shorter minimum contract, lower/more flexible salary threshold, professional experience can be an alternative to a degree in certain sectors, greater mobility within the EU).
Who can apply - and who cannot
The EU Blue Card is designed for nationals of non-EU countries who do not enjoy the right of free movement. With it, they can live and work legally in the issuing Member State, if they have a higher educational degree or relevant professional experience appropriate to the position to be filled.
But it isn’t for everyone. The EU Blue Card does not apply to applicants for international protection, persons under temporary protection, etc. Those who already have an EU Blue Card in another Member State may come to Hungary under the relevant mobility conditions.
The fine print: salary and conditions
At the heart of eligibility lie two essentials: a valid work contract and a minimum salary. In 2025, the general threshold is HUF 883,671 per month. In certain healthcare roles, however, the bar is lower at HUF 706,937 – a reflection of the continent-wide shortage in doctors, pharmacists, nurses and physiotherapists. The salary requirement associated with the permit is determined each year in accordance with the statutory method. The OIF (National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing) publishes it annually based on current KSH (National Office of Statistics) data. The 2026 amount will be published in an official announcement, and it is expected to exceed the gross HUF One million limit per month.
Housing and health insurance are also required, as well as certified translation of authenticated documents. Authentication can be done with an Apostille or, if the country of origin is not a member of the Hague Apostille Convention, with a consular certification. Certain bilateral agreements (e.g., between Hungary and Ukraine) exempt documents from further certification, but this exemption does not apply to degrees. The handling of documents must also comply with the rules of the country of origin and those on specific document types.
The card is valid for up to four years and renewable in four-year blocks. While this may sound generous, experts at ARC warn that such timeframes may pose challenges for employers – remember that what looks like an opportunity may carry hidden risks too.
Transition between existing permits and the EU Blue Card
Employees who have a work permit under the old Aliens Policing Act (2007) and a Hungarian Card or National Card under the current regulations can, under certain conditions, switch to an EU Blue Card if the job description and the wage threshold conditions are met. This may be advantageous for applicants because it simplifies family reunification, ensures income levels, and ensures mobility within the EU. It is apparent already on the Hungarian labour market that companies have a significant competitive advantage if they can offer candidates EU Blue Card-compatible job offers.
Why it matters - for individuals and for Europe
For professionals, the Blue Card makes mobility easier, offering stability and a clear legal framework for life and work. For the EU, it is much more than an immigration scheme: it’s a strategy to attract, secure and keep the talent that keeps economies competitive.
How can risks be avoided?
The conditions required for a successful application are not easy to meet, but our experts are successful, as we always consult with the authorities in advance, if necessary, thereby minimizing risks of failed applications.