Czech Blue Card 2026: Minimum Wage for Foreign Specialists to Increase Starting May 1

The Czech Republic is tightening the requirements for the Blue Card for foreign specialists in 2026. Find out what the minimum wage requirement is, who is affected by the changes, and how this will impact Ukrainians

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In the Czech Republic, starting May 1, 2026, the financial requirements for obtaining and renewing the Blue Card (Modrá karta)—a residence and work permit for highly qualified professionals from non-EU countries—will be raised. This is reported on the official website mpo.gov.cz.

What will the minimum salary requirement for the Blue Card be in 2026?

According to the updated rules, the minimum salary will be 73,823 Czech korunas per month (approximately 3,000 euros). The previous threshold was 69,247 korunas.

The new limit will remain in effect until April 30, 2027. This means that all new applicants, as well as current Blue Card holders, must meet the updated financial requirements.

Important: Employers are required to raise employees’ salaries if they are below the established minimum. Otherwise, this may affect the legality of the specialist’s stay in the country.

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Who is affected by the changes?

The update applies not only to new applicants. It also applies to:

● foreigners who already hold a Blue Card;

● applicants for whom a decision has not yet been made;

● participants in programs for key and scientific personnel;

● participants in programs for highly qualified workers who submitted documents under the old conditions.

Thus, even those already in the application process must meet the new income threshold.

What is the Blue Card and who is it for?

The Blue Card (Modrá karta) is a special permit that grants non-EU foreigners the right to legally work and reside in the Czech Republic. It is intended for highly qualified and experienced professionals.

To apply in 2026, you must meet the following criteria:

● education: a university degree (bachelor’s or master’s) or vocational education equivalent to the Czech VOŠ level (minimum 3 years of study);

● Position: the job must correspond to the level of qualification;

● Contract: an employment contract for at least 6 months;

● Salary: no less than 1.5 times the average gross salary in the Czech Republic (in 2026 — 73,823 CZK).

These conditions are basic and are verified during the application review process. If you have questions regarding document preparation, permit renewal, or compliance with new requirements, you should consult immigration lawyers. In particular, through Visit Ukraine, you can get advice on legalization, employment, and obtaining residency status in EU countries.

We remind you! The Czech Republic is preparing new rules for the stay of foreigners, including the digitization of procedures and tighter controls. Read about what changes are planned, when they will take effect, and what this means for Ukrainians.

Photo: kichigin / Freepik

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