Poland Work Visa & Work Permit: The Ultimate Guide for Foreigners

Poland is one of the top European destinations for international workers in 2025. The country's booming economy, growing industries, and straightforward visa procedures make it an ideal choice for both skilled and unskilled workers.

Foreign nationals from countries such as India, Nepal, Bangladesh, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and several African nations are increasingly choosing Poland for its legal employment opportunities, stable income, and affordable lifestyle.

This complete guide covers everything you need to know about the Polish Work Visa and Work Permit, including types, eligibility, process, costs, documents, and the top jobs available for foreigners.

Why Work in Poland?

1. A Growing Economy

Poland ranks among the fastest-growing economies in the European Union. With consistent GDP growth and low unemployment, it presents excellent prospects across various sectors, including construction, logistics, manufacturing, IT, and healthcare.

2. High Demand for Foreign Workers

Due to demographic changes and skill shortages, Poland is recruiting thousands of foreign workers annually. Employers are especially interested in hiring candidates from Asian and African countries to fill labour gaps in logistics, agriculture, hospitality, and healthcare.

3. Legal Pathway to the EU

The Polish Work Visa offers a legal way to live and work within the EU. Once you have a Temporary Residence Card (TRC), you can travel freely across the Schengen Zone and build your career in Europe.

4. Affordable Living Costs

Compared to Western Europe, Poland's cost of living is significantly lower, allowing foreign workers to save a large portion of their income while enjoying a good quality of life.

5. Gateway to Permanent Residence

After five years of legal residence and employment, you can apply for Permanent Residence (PR), and later for EU citizenship, gaining long-term stability and benefits for your family.

6. Transparent and Efficient Process

Poland's immigration system is well-organized and supported by digital systems. Agencies like M2S Group Sp. z o.o. Assist both employers and employees through every stage, ensuring compliance and faster results.

7. Safe and Welcoming Society

Poland is known for its safety, hospitality, and growing multicultural population. English is widely understood, particularly in workplaces with foreign employees.

What is a Polish Work Permit?

A Polish Work Permit is a government-issued authorisation that authorises a non-EU citizen to work legally for a specific employer in Poland. It defines your job title, employer name, location, and employment duration.

Without a valid work permit, non-EU nationals are not eligible to apply for a work visa or commence employment in Poland.

Who Issues the Work Permit

The Voivodeship Office (Urząd Wojewódzki) in Poland issues work permits based on the employer's registered address.

Validity

Work permits are generally valid for up to one year, but can be extended depending on the employment contract and employer requirements.

Types of Polish Work Permits

Poland Work Visa (Type D National Visa)

The Poland Type D Work Visa is a long-stay visa that allows non-EU citizens to live and work legally in Poland. It is linked directly to your work permit.

Eligibility

To qualify for a Poland Work Visa, you must:

1. Hold a valid work permit issued by a Polish employer.
2. Possess a signed employment contract or job offer.
3. Hold a valid passport with at least 12 months of validity.
4. Provide proof of accommodation and sufficient financial means.
5. Hold valid travel or health insurance.
6. Present a clean criminal record (if required by the embassy).

Visa Duration

Usually valid for up to one year, extendable upon renewing your work permit or obtaining a Temporary Residence Card (TRC).

Documents Required for a Polish Work Visa

From the Employer

• Completed work permit application form.
• Company registration documents (KRS, NIP, REGON).
• Employment contract or job offer.
• Proof of payment for government fees.
• Labour market test (if applicable).
• Proof of the company's financial capability.

From the Employee

• Valid passport (minimum 12 months).
• Two passport-size photographs.
• Original work permit.
• Signed job offer or employment contract.
• Medical or travel insurance.
• Accommodation confirmation.
• Proof of financial means (bank statements or credit card limit).
• Clean criminal record certificate/legalized).
• Visa application form and payment receipt.

Step-by-Step Poland Work Permit Process

Step 1: Job Offer

The process begins when a registered employer in Poland offers you a job.

Step 2: Employer Applies for Work Permit

The employer applies to the Voivodeship Office, which includes the employment contract, company documents, and proof of fee payment.

Step 3: Work Permit Approval

The Voivode (regional governor) reviews the application and issues the work permit within 30 to 60 working days.

Step 4: Visa Application

With the approved permit, you can apply for a Type D National Work Visa at the Polish embassy or a visa application centre in your home country.

Step 5: Visa Processing

Processing takes into account the embassy's workload, the system's residual needs, and its analytics.

Step 6: Travel to Poland

Once your visa is approved, travel to Poland and begin working in accordance with the terms of your contract.

Step 7: Apply for Temporary Residence Card (TRC)

If your job continues beyond your visa validity, apply for a TRC (Karta Pobytu) to live and work legally for up to 3 years.

Processing Time for a Polish Work Permit and Visa

Work Permit and Visa Fees

Additional Costs:
Medical insurance, document legalization, and travel expenses.

Jobs in Poland for Foreigners 

Benefits of Working in Poland

1. Legal employment under EU regulations.
2. Safe and fair working conditions.
3. Opportunity for family reunification.
4. Pathway to permanent residence and citizenship.
5. Access to social security (ZUS) and healthcare.
6. Affordable cost of living with saving potential.
7. Opportunity to travel across the Schengen Zone.
8. High demand for international workers in multiple sectors.

Official Government Links

• Find Verified Job Offers: https://oferty.praca.gov.pl
• Work Permit Information: https://www.gov.pl/web/udsc-en/work
• Visa Application Details: https://www.gov.pl/web/diplomacy/visas
• Temporary Residence Card (TRC): https://www.gov.pl/web/udsc-en/temporary-residence-permit

Top 20 Frequently Asked Questions About the Polish Work Visa

1. Who needs a Polish work permit?
All non-EU, non-EEA, and non-Swiss nationals need a valid work permit to work legally in Poland.

2. Who applies for the work permit?
In Poland, the employer applies for the work permit on behalf of the foreign employee.

3. Can I apply for a Polish work visa without a job offer?
No. A valid job offer and an approved work permit are required before applying for a visa.

4. What is the difference between a work visa and a work permit? A work permit authorizes you to work in Poland; a work visa allows you to enter and reside in Poland legally for the purpose of that work.

5. How long does it take to get a work permit?
Typically, 30 to 60 working days, depending on the Voivodeship Office and application completeness.

6. How long is the work permit valid?
Usually valid for up to one year, but can be extended upon contract renewal.

7. Can I change my job or employer in Poland?
Yes, but your new employer will need to apply for a new work permit.

8. Can my family join me in Poland?
Yes, after you receive your residence permit, you can apply for family reunification.

9. How much is the visa fee?
The Polish Work Visa fee is approximately €80–€100, depending on your location.

10. Can I get permanent residence in Poland?
Yes. After five years of continuous legal stay, you can apply for Permanent Residence (PR).

11. What happens if I work without a permit?
Working without a valid permit is illegal and may result in fines, deportation, or a ban on entry into the country.

12. Can I work for more than one employer?
Only if each employer obtains a separate work permit for you.

13. What language is required to work in Poland?
Basic English is widely accepted. However, proficiency in the Polish language can improve your employment opportunities.

14. Do I need to renew my visa every year?
If you plan to stay long-term, you can apply for a Temporary Residence Card (TRC) instead of renewing the visa yearly.

15. Can I apply for a TRC while in Poland?
Yes, you can apply for a TRC after entering Poland on a valid work visa.

16. Can I travel in Europe with a Polish work visa?
Yes, you can travel within the Schengen Zone for up to 90 days within 180 days.

17. What sectors hire the most foreigners?
Construction, logistics, transportation, hospitality, healthcare, and IT.

18. What is the average salary in Poland for foreign workers?
Average gross monthly salaries range from €1,000 to €2,500 depending on job type and experience.

19. Can I apply for a seasonal job in Poland?
Yes, you can apply for a Type S (Seasonal) work permit for up to nine months of employment per year.

20. How can I extend my stay after my visa expires?
Apply for a Temporary Residence Card (Karta Pobytu) before your visa expires to continue working legally in Poland.

Contact M2S Group Sp. z o.o. for Assistance

M2S Group Sp. z o.o. Provides comprehensive guidance on obtaining work permits, visas, and residence cards for Poland.
Our team assists with legal documentation, employer coordination, and embassy procedures for candidates from all nationalities.