31 Jan 157 views

Poland Work Permits and Visas: A Complete Guide for Expats

How to Get a Poland Work Visa: Requirements & Process

If you plan to work in Poland as a foreigner, you’ll need a work permit and visa (unless you’re an EU citizen). Poland has a transparent legal process for work permits; your employer must sponsor your application. This guide covers everything you need to know, including official government links to help you apply.

1. Do You Need a Work Permit for Poland?

EU/EEA & Swiss citizens – Register for your stay without a work permit.
Non-EU citizens – A work permit is required (your employer applies for it).
Exceptional cases – Some foreigners (like students, refugees, or Blue Card holders) may not need a permit.

Check official government info on work permits: https://www.gov.pl/web/udsc/zatrudnienie-cudzoziemcow

2. Types of Work Permits in Poland

There are five types of work permits in Poland:

Type A – For those working for a Polish employer (most common type).
Type B – For company board members staying in Poland for more than 6 months.
Type C – For those transferred to Poland within an international company.
Type D – People working for a non-Polish company but assigned to Poland.
Type E – For other work-related cases not covered above.

Most foreigners apply for a Type A work permit.

Check the official types of work permits here: https://www.gov.pl/web/udsc/zatrudnienie-cudzoziemcow.

3. How to Get a Poland Work Permit

Who applies?

Your employer will need to apply for you. You cannot apply for a work permit yourself.

Steps to get a work permit:

Your employer applies to the Voivodeship Office (Urząd Wojewódzki).
The authorities review the application and may conduct a labour market test.
If approved, the work permit is issued to the employer (linked to your job).
You apply for a work visa at the Polish consulate using your work permit.
Once in Poland, start working legally with the employer listed on your permit.

Find your local Voivodeship Office: https://www.gov.pl/web/gov/urzedowe-sprawy

4. Poland Work Visa (National Visa D)

Once your work permit is approved, you need a National D Visa to enter Poland.

How to apply for a Poland work visa:

Fill out the visa application form online.
Collect required documents (passport, work permit, job contract, etc.).
Schedule an appointment at the Polish embassy or consulate.
Attend the visa interview and submit biometrics.
Wait for approval (processing takes 30-60 days).

Official Poland work visa info: https://www.gov.pl/web/dyplomacja/informacje-dla-cudzoziemcow

Find a Polish embassy near you: https://www.gov.pl/web/dyplomacja/polskie-przedstawicielstwa-na-swiecie

5. Work Permit & Visa Fees

Fees for a Poland work permit:

Standard work permit: PLN 50–200 (€12–€45) (depends on job duration & contract type)
Work visa fee: €80 (approx. PLN 360)

Check official fee details: https://www.gov.pl/web/udsc/zatrudnienie-cudzoziemcow

6. Changing Jobs in Poland? What Happens to Your Work Permit?

Your work permit is tied to your employer, so you need a new license if you change jobs.
Your new employer must apply for a new work permit before you can legally switch jobs.

7. Poland EU Blue Card (for Highly Skilled Workers)

If you’re a highly skilled worker, you can apply for an EU Blue Card, which allows more flexibility.

EU Blue Card Poland official info: https://www.gov.pl/web/udsc/zezwolenie-na-pobyt-rezydenta-dlugoterminowego-ue

8. TRC (Temporary Residence Card) for Work in Poland

If you plan to stay in Poland long, you can apply for a Temporary Residence Card (TRC).

How to apply for a TRC: https://www.gov.pl/web/udsc/pobyt-czasowy

Final Tips for Expats Working in Poland

Always apply for jobs through official government sources → https://psz.praca.gov.pl/.
Never pay for a work permit – only employers can apply, and they cover the costs.
Check if an employer is real → https://ekrs.ms.gov.pl/
Use official Polish government websites to avoid scams.

For more information, visit the official Polish immigration website:
https://www.gov.pl/web/udsc

Following these steps and using only official government links, you can legally live and work in Poland without issues. Good luck with your job search!

How to Find a Job in Poland: A Full Guide Using the Government Portal

If you’re looking for a job in Poland and want to avoid scams, the best way is to use the official Polish government job portal. It’s free, safe, and lists real job offers from employers registered in Poland.

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you find and apply for jobs through the government portal.

1. Use the Official Government Job Portal

The Polish government runs a website where you can search for jobs in all industries:

Official Job Portal: https://psz.praca.gov.pl/

This site is managed by Poland’s Ministry of Family, Labour, and Social Policy, so you can trust the job listings.

2. How to Search for Jobs

Go to the website → https://psz.praca.gov.pl/
Click on “Szukaj ofert pracy” (Search for job offers)
Enter your job title, industry, or location
Click Search to see available jobs

If you don’t speak Polish, use Google Translate to help you navigate the site.

3. How to Apply for a Job

Once you find a job that interests you:

Click on the job listing to see the details
Read the requirements and application process
Click “Aplikuj” (Apply)
Submit your CV and cover letter (if required)
Follow the employer’s instructions (some may ask you to apply via email)

4. Need Help? Visit a Government Job Office

Poland has public employment offices that offer free services like:

Help with CV and cover letter
Information about work permits (for non-EU citizens)
Career advice and job matching
Unemployment benefits (if eligible)

Find the nearest employment office: https://psz.praca.gov.pl/wybor-urzedu

5. Work Permits & Legal Employment for Foreigners

You must have a work permit to work in Poland if you're from outside the EU. But don’t worry—your employer will apply for it on your behalf.

Government Work Permit Information: https://www.gov.pl/web/udsc/zatrudnienie-cudzoziemcow

Important: If a company asks you to pay for a work permit, it’s a scam! Only employers can apply for work permits, and they cover the costs.

6. How to Check if an Employer is Legit

Before you accept any job, please make sure the company is genuine. You can verify an employer using Poland’s National Court Register (KRS):

Check a Company Here: https://ekrs.ms.gov.pl/

Please enter the company name or KRS number to verify its registration.

Final Tips

Always use official government websites for job searches
Never pay for a work permit—it’s the employer’s responsibility
If something feels suspicious, check with a government employment office

For more details, visit the Polish government’s official work website:
https://www.gov.pl/web/praca

Following these steps, you can find a job in Poland using official sources. Good luck!

Blue-Collar and White-Collar Job Shortages in Poland: A 2025 Outlook

Poland's job market is evolving, driven by economic growth, demographic shifts, and labour migration trends. As we move into 2025, both blue-collar and white-collar job sectors are experiencing labour shortages, presenting opportunities for foreign workers. Below is an in-depth look at the most in-demand jobs, salaries, and visa requirements for those considering employment in Poland.

1. Blue-Collar Job Shortages in Poland (2025)

Poland faces a persistent shortage of workers in blue-collar industries, particularly in manufacturing, construction, logistics, and agriculture. The demand for skilled and unskilled labour has increased due to workforce migration, an ageing population, and economic expansion.

Most In-Demand Blue-Collar Jobs in 2025

Construction Workers (Bricklayers, Plumbers, Electricians, Welders)
Truck Drivers & Delivery Workers
Warehouse Operators & Logistics Staff
Manufacturing Workers (Machine Operators, Assembly Line Workers)
Agricultural Workers (Farmhands, Harvest Workers)
Maintenance & Repair Technicians
Hospitality Staff (Chefs, Housekeepers, Cleaners)
Security Guards & Janitorial Staff

Average Salaries for Blue-Collar Jobs

Construction Workers: PLN 5,500 – PLN 9,000 per month (€1,200 – €2,000)
Truck Drivers: PLN 7,000 – PLN 12,000 per month (€1,500 – €2,600)
Warehouse Operators: PLN 4,500 – PLN 7,500 per month (€1,000 – €1,600)
Manufacturing Workers: PLN 4,800 – PLN 8,500 per month (€1,100 – €1,900)
Farm Workers: PLN 3,500 – PLN 6,000 per month (€750 – €1,300)
Hospitality Staff: PLN 3,800 – PLN 6,500 per month (€800 – €1,400)

Work Permit & Visa Process for Blue-Collar Jobs

Work Permit Type A: Required for non-EU workers employed by a Polish company.
Seasonal Work Permit (Type S): Issued for short-term agricultural and hospitality jobs.
National Visa (D-Type): Issued for long-term employment (valid up to 1 year).
EU Blue Card: Less ordinary for blue-collar workers but available for skilled positions.

2. White-Collar Job Shortages in Poland (2025)

Poland's growing economy has increased the demand for IT, healthcare, engineering, and finance professionals. The shortage of skilled workers in these sectors is mainly due to the rapid digital transformation and the outflow of Polish professionals to other EU countries.

Most In-Demand White-Collar Jobs in 2025

IT & Software Developers (Full Stack, Cloud Engineers, Cybersecurity Experts)
Data Analysts & AI Specialists
Engineers (Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, Automation)
Medical Professionals (Doctors, Nurses, Pharmacists, Lab Technicians)
Finance & Accounting Experts
Marketing & Sales Specialists
Project Managers & Business Consultants
Legal & HR Professionals (Recruiters, Compliance Officers)

Average Salaries for White-Collar Jobs

Software Developers: PLN 12,000 – PLN 25,000 per month (€2,600 – €5,500)
Data Analysts: PLN 8,000 – PLN 15,000 per month (€1,800 – €3,300)
Engineers: PLN 9,000 – PLN 18,000 per month (€2,000 – €4,000)
Doctors: PLN 15,000 – PLN 30,000 per month (€3,300 – €6,600)
Nurses: PLN 7,000 – PLN 12,000 per month (€1,500 – €2,600)
Finance Professionals: PLN 8,500 – PLN 18,000 per month (€1,900 – €4,000)
Marketing & Sales Managers: PLN 7,500 – PLN 16,000 per month (€1,600 – €3,500)

Work Permit & Visa Process for White-Collar Jobs

Work Permit Type A: Needed for non-EU employees working in Poland.
EU Blue Card: Available for highly skilled professionals with a minimum salary threshold.
National Visa (D-Type): Required for long-term employment.
Business Visa: For short-term professional assignments or managerial roles.

3. Challenges & Opportunities for Foreign Workers in 2025

Challenges:

Language Barrier – Many jobs require at least basic Polish.
Work Permit Processing Times – Depending on the employer, this can take 3-6 months.
Competitive Job Market – Preference for EU nationals in white-collar roles.
Housing Costs – Rising rental prices in major cities like Warsaw, Kraków, and Wrocław.

Opportunities:

Higher Demand for Foreign Workers – Labor shortages make Poland more open to hiring non-EU workers.
Salary Growth – Wages are rising due to labour shortages.
Pathway to Residency – Long-term employment can lead to a Polish Temporary Residence Card (TRC).
Strong IT & Tech Sector – Poland is a leading IT hub in Central Europe.

4. Future Outlook: How to Secure a Job in Poland?

Apply for a Work Permit Early – Processing can take several months.
Use Online Job Portals – Check portals like Pracuj.pl, Jobs.pl, EURES, and LinkedIn.
Network with Employers & Agencies – Recruitment firms help with visa sponsorships.
Learn Basic Polish – Increases chances of securing local jobs.
Verify Employer Credibility – Avoid scams by checking company registrations.

How to Get a Poland Work Visa: Step-by-Step Guide

If you plan to work in Poland, you will need a work visa and work permit (unless you are an EU/EEA citizen). Poland offers job opportunities in various sectors, but legally, working there involves specific steps. This guide will walk you through the official process, ensuring you use the proper channels and avoid scams.

1. Understand the Poland Work Visa Types

Poland issues different types of visas, but for employment purposes, you need a National (D) Visa. This allows you to stay longer than 90 days and permits you to work.

? Official Poland Visa Information: https://www.gov.pl/web/diplomacy/visas

2. Get a Job Offer & Work Permit

You must have a valid job offer from a Polish employer to apply for a work visa. The employer will apply for a work permit for you.

Types of Work Permits in Poland:

Type A – For foreigners working for a Polish employer (most common).
Type B – For board members staying in Poland for more than 6 months.
Type C – For employees transferred within an international company.
Type D – Employees working for a foreign employer but posted to Poland.
Type E – For other work-related cases not covered above.

More details on work permits: https://migrant.poznan.uw.gov.pl/en/procedury/work-permit

3. Gather the Required Documents

Before applying for a visa, collect all necessary documents:

Visa Application Form (filled out and signed)
Valid Passport (at least 3 months validity beyond intended stay)
Recent Passport-Sized Photo (biometric standards)
Work Permit (issued by the employer)
Employment Contract (or letter from employer)
Proof of Accommodation in Poland
Health Insurance (covering at least €30,000 in the Schengen area)
Proof of Financial Means (bank statements, pay slips, etc.)
Flight Reservation (optional but recommended)

Check official document requirements: https://www.gov.pl/web/diplomacy/visas

4. Book an Appointment at the Polish Consulate

Once you have the required documents, schedule an appointment at the Polish embassy or consulate in your home country. Some consulates use the e-Konsulat system for online bookings.

Find a Polish Embassy: https://www.gov.pl/web/diplomacy/polish-missions-abroad

5. Attend the Visa Interview

On the day of your appointment:

Arrive on time with all required documents.
Be prepared to answer questions about your employment and plans in Poland.
Submit biometric data (fingerprints and photos).

6. Wait for Visa Processing

Visa processing usually takes 15-30 days, but it can take longer, depending on your application. You may track your visa application on the Polish consulate website.

Visa Processing Time and Tracking: https://www.gov.pl/web/diplomacy/visas

7. Travel to Poland & Register Your Stay

Once your visa is approved:

Enter Poland within the visa validity period.
Register your stay at the local Voivodeship Office within 30 days if your stay exceeds 3 months.
If planning to stay long-term, apply for a Temporary Residence Permit (TRC) before your visa expires.

Temporary Residence Permit (TRC): https://www.gov.pl/web/udsc/pobyt-czasowy

Final Tips for a Smooth Work Visa Process

Only apply through official government websites to avoid scams.
Never pay for a work permit—only employers can apply for it.
Confirm your employer’s legitimacy through the Polish company register.
You can apply for a visa well in advance (at least 3 months before your planned arrival).

Check if an employer is registered in Poland: https://ekrs.ms.gov.pl/

You can legally work in Poland without issues by following these steps and using official Polish government resources. Good luck with your work visa application!

How to Appeal Poland Visa Refusal – A Step-by-Step Guide

If your Poland visa application has been refused, don’t worry—you can appeal the decision. The appeal process is clearly defined by Polish immigration authorities and follows specific guidelines. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the appeal process efficiently.

1. Understand the Reason for Refusal

When your visa is denied, you will receive an official letter explaining the reason for refusal. Common reasons include:

Insufficient financial proof
Lack of proper travel insurance
Unclear purpose of visit
Previous visa violations

Official Poland Visa Information: https://www.gov.pl/web/diplomacy/visas

2. Deadline for Appealing the Visa Refusal

You have 14 days from receiving your visa refusal to submit an appeal. Appeals submitted after this deadline will not be considered.

Legal Timeframes for Visa Appeals: https://migrant.poznan.uw.gov.pl/en/slownik-pojec/appeal

3. Prepare Your Appeal Letter

Your appeal letter must be written in Polish and should include:

Your full name and passport number
The date of visa refusal
A clear explanation of why the decision should be reconsidered
Any additional supporting documents that address the reasons for refusal
Your signature

4. Gather Supporting Documents

Depending on the reason for your visa refusal, you may need to provide:

Updated bank statements (if financial proof was insufficient)
Better proof of accommodation (if previous evidence was unclear)
A letter from your employer or school confirming your leave and return
Stronger travel insurance coverage (if the previous one was inadequate)

Check Required Visa Documents: https://www.gov.pl/web/diplomacy/visas

5. Submit Your Appeal

Your appeal must be submitted in person at the same Polish consulate or embassy where your visa was refused. Some offices may allow submissions via postal service, so it’s best to check directly with your consulate.

Find Your Polish Embassy: https://www.gov.pl/web/diplomacy/polish-missions-abroad

6. Wait for a Decision

The consulate will review your appeal and approve your visa application, allowing you to receive your visa.
Uphold the refusal, meaning you may need to apply again more vigorously.

Processing times vary, but following up after 15-30 days is advisable if you haven’t received an update.

Final Tips for a Successful Appeal

Act quickly—you only have 14 days to appeal.
Be clear and concise in your appeal letter.
Submit all necessary supporting documents to strengthen your case.
Follow official Polish government guidelines to ensure your appeal is processed correctly.

By carefully following these steps, you increase your chances of overturning the visa refusal and successfully obtaining your Poland visa.

More details on Poland visa appeals: https://www.gov.pl/web/diplomacy/visas

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Finding a Job and Work Permits in Poland

If you're looking for a job in Poland or need information on work permits, this guide answers the most common questions backed by official government sources.

1. How can I search for a job in Poland?

You can find jobs in Poland by applying directly to companies, using online job portals, or working with recruitment agencies. The Polish government also provides an official job portal to search for vacancies.

Official Polish Government Job Portal: https://psz.praca.gov.pl/

2. Do I need a work permit to work in Poland?

EU/EEA & Swiss citizens: No work permit required.
Non-EU citizens: A work permit is required unless exempted.

Polish Work Permit Information: https://www.gov.pl/web/udsc/zatrudnienie-cudzoziemcow

3. What are the types of work permits in Poland?

Poland offers different types of work permits based on employment status:

Type A – If a Polish employer employs you.
Type B – If you are a board member staying in Poland for over 6 months.
Type C – If you are transferred to a Polish branch within a company.
Type D – If you are posted to Poland by a foreign employer for an export service.
Type E – If you work in Poland in cases not covered by the above types.

More details on work permits: https://migrant.poznan.uw.gov.pl/en/procedury/work-permit.

4. How do I apply for a work permit in Poland?

Your employer must apply for a work permit for you. The process involves:

Applying to the Voivodeship Office.
Providing required documents like your employment contract and qualifications.
Waiting for processing (usually a few weeks).

Apply for a Work Permit: https://www.gov.pl/web/udsc/zatrudnienie-cudzoziemcow

5. Can I work in Poland while waiting for my residence permit?

Yes, if:

You have applied for a temporary residence permit.
You were legally working before applying.
Your current work permit or declaration of employment is valid.

Temporary Residence Permit Information: https://www.gov.pl/web/udsc/pobyt-czasowy

6. Who is exempt from a work permit in Poland?

Specific individuals do not need a work permit, including:

Graduates of full-time studies in Poland.
People granted refugee status or temporary protection.
Individuals holding a residence permit for family reunification.

More information on exemptions: https://www.gov.pl/web/udsc/zatrudnienie-cudzoziemcow

7. What is the average processing time for a work permit?

It typically takes 1 to 3 months, depending on the Voivodeship Office and the number of applications processed.

Processing Times & Updates: https://www.gov.pl/web/udsc/zatrudnienie-cudzoziemcow

8. What happens if I change my employer?

If you change jobs, you must apply for a new work permit. Your previous work permit is tied to your specific employer and does not transfer.

Changing Employers with a Work Permit: https://www.gov.pl/web/udsc/zatrudnienie-cudzoziemcow

Final Tips for Finding a Job and Work Permits in Poland

Use official job portals to find legal employment.
Your employer must apply for your work permit—do not pay for it yourself.
Keep your documents updated to avoid visa issues.
Follow Polish government guidelines to stay compliant with immigration rules.

By following these steps and using only official sources, you can legally find a job and obtain a work permit in Poland.

Polish Government Visa & Work Information: https://www.gov.pl/web/udsc

Disclaimer

The information provided in this guide is for informational purposes only. Always consult legal and tax advisors for professional guidance tailored to your situation.

AtoZ Serwis Plus cannot assist with legal or tax matters.
This general information does not reflect specific employer practices or policies.
AtoZ Serwis Plus is not liable for any losses from using this guide.

Consult a legal or immigration expert for advice or support on a visa application.

Category: Work

Tags: #Polish