How is the salary threshold set?

Since the 2023 reform Romania's Blue Card threshold is tied to the national average gross salary rather than a multiple of it. The exact figure changes yearly, so verify the current threshold with IGI before applying.

Can I change employer on a Blue Card?

Blue Card rules restrict job changes in the first period of employment; check current IGI conditions, as changes typically require notification or approval.

Does time on a Blue Card count towards long-term residence?

Yes. Blue Card holders can accumulate the residence needed for EU long-term residence, with favourable rules for time spent in other EU states.

Long-stay visas (Type D)

Romanian EU Blue Card (highly qualified employment)

For highly qualified non-EU workers with a degree-level job and a salary above the national threshold, granting strong residence rights and mobility across the EU.

Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced

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Under review — check current rules

EU Blue Card salary threshold and minimum contract length change frequently (threshold reported around 2,743 EUR/month for 2023, initial fee around 173 EUR) — verify the current figures against IGI before publishing them as fact.

Important information

Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Romania government website before you apply.

On this page

Who it's for
Requirements
What you can do
How to apply
Frequently asked questions

Purpose: Highly qualified employment
Issuing authority: IGI (work authorisation & Blue Card), consulate (entry visa)
Minimum contract: Highly qualified job offer/contract of at least 6 months (EU rules; Romania has applied a longer minimum in the past); Confirm the current minimum contract length with IGI.
Validity: Contract duration plus 3 months, up to about 2 years, then renewable
Qualification: Higher education qualification or equivalent higher professional experience

Who it's for

Highly qualified non-EU/EEA professionals with a degree or equivalent higher professional experience
Workers with a qualifying Romanian job offer paying above the national Blue Card salary threshold
Those wanting stronger residence rights and EU-wide mobility compared with a standard work permit

Requirements

A valid work contract or binding job offer for highly qualified employment meeting the minimum duration
Gross salary at or above the Romanian EU Blue Card threshold (linked to the national average gross salary)
Proof of higher professional qualifications (recognised degree or equivalent experience)
Employer-obtained work authorisation for highly qualified employment from IGI
Valid travel document and sickness/health insurance

What you can do

Work in a highly qualified role in Romania
Bring family members, generally on favourable reunification terms
Move to another EU country under Blue Card mobility rules after a qualifying period
Accumulate residence towards EU long-term residence

How to apply

The employer applies to IGI for a work authorisation for highly qualified employees.

Once granted, you apply for the long-stay visa at a Romanian consulate, then apply to IGI for the EU Blue Card residence permit after arriving in Romania.

Applications and renewals can be submitted through the IGI online portal at portaligi.mai.gov.ro; there is no labour-market test for the Blue Card.

Frequently asked questions

Since the 2023 reform Romania's Blue Card threshold is tied to the national average gross salary rather than a multiple of it. The exact figure changes yearly, so verify the current threshold with IGI before applying.

Official sources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.

Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.

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