The requirements surrounding work permits in Poland vary depending on an expat's nationality.
European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) citizens do not need a work permit to be legally employed in Poland, while non-EU citizens are required to hold a work permit.
Since Poland officially became part of the EU in 2004, efforts have been made to standardise the work permit process. Rules and regulations are becoming more closely aligned with the directives used by other EU countries.
Types of work permits for Poland
There are a few types of work visas for Poland, but most new arrivals wanting to work in Poland will apply for a Type A visa, which allows expats to work in Poland if a Polish company employs them. Expats who sit on management boards typically apply for a Type B visa, which allows them to live in Poland for six months or more during the course of a year. Otherwise, the Type C work permit allows expats to work in Poland for a company that is not Polish. The Type D visa is specifically for expats who work in export services for a non-Polish company.
Applying for a work permit for Poland
Most employers apply for their employees' work permits on their behalf, as it is necessary for an employer to first establish an expat's 'permission to work' from a provincial government office, known locally as a voivode office. This application must also be made at the office in the district where the expat is to take up employment.
For this reason, most of the burden of organising the work permit falls on the shoulders of the hiring company. The company must present a great deal of documentation, detailing its legal status, its income and losses, information relating to the number of employees in the company, and most importantly, proof that there are no qualified Polish workers who could adequately fill the position in question.
Although this removes a lot of pressure from expats, it also means that companies often choose not to hire foreigners, as the process of filing paperwork can be resource consuming.
Work permits are issued for a maximum of three years, at which point they can be renewed accordingly.
One restriction that many expats are unaware of is the fact that work permits in Poland are job- and employer-specific. Consequently, if an expat wishes to change employers while living in Poland, they will have to reapply for a work permit.
Once 'permission to work' is granted by the voivode office, expats can apply for a formal visa at the Polish Consulate in their home country, or apply for a residency card within Poland.
*Regulations for work permits are subject to change at short notice, and expats should consult their respective embassy or consulate for the latest details.
Further reading
►Learn more about Working in Poland
Expat Experiences
"It took a couple of months for me to get my Polish residency, which also allowed me to work. It involved a lot of paperwork and a bit of expense, but there was no issue with getting it granted."
Read more about expat life in Poland in our interview with Australian expat Rose.
Are you an expat living in Poland?
Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Poland. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.
Expat Health Insurance
Cigna Global Health Insurance
Moving your family abroad can be intimidating, but learning about medical options such as family health insurance early on can help you successfully settle in.
- Comprehensive family coverage, wherever you go
- Paediatric coverage for well-child visits & immunisations
- Access to dental and orthodontic care
- 24/7 multilingual customer service
Moving Internationally?
International Movers. Get Quotes. Compare Prices.
Sirelo has a network of more than 500 international removal companies that can move your furniture and possessions to your new home. By filling in a form, you’ll get up to 5 quotes from recommended movers. This service is free of charge and will help you select an international moving company that suits your needs and budget.
Get your free no-obligation quotes from select removal companies now!