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Poland – Work Permits and Working Legally

Work Permits for Expats in Poland

Poland is a country with a growing economy and many opportunities for expats. To work legally in Poland, expats must obtain a work permit. In this article, we will provide information on the types of work permits available, the application process, and the required documents.

Do Expats Need a Work Permit to Work Legally in Poland?

Yes, expats need a work permit to work legally in Poland. The work permit is a legal requirement for all foreign nationals who wish to work in the country.

The employer is responsible for applying for the work permit on behalf of the expat employee. The employer must provide evidence of the expat’s qualifications and experience, as well as evidence that no qualified Polish or EU citizen is available to fill the position.

Types of Work Permits for Expats in Poland

There are several types of work permits available for expats in Poland. The type of work permit required will depend on the nature of the work to be performed. The most common types of work permits for expats in Poland are:

  • Type A Work Permit: This type of work permit is for expats who will be working in Poland for more than six months. The permit is valid for up to three years and can be renewed.
  • Type B Work Permit: This type of work permit is for expats who will be working in Poland for less than six months. The permit is valid for up to one year and cannot be renewed.
  • Blue Card: This type of work permit is for highly skilled expats who have a job offer in Poland with a salary that is at least 1.5 times the average national salary. The permit is valid for up to three years and can be renewed.

Procedure to Apply for a Work Permit in Poland

The procedure to apply for a work permit in Poland involves several steps, including:

  1. The employer must submit an application for a work permit on behalf of the expat employee to the voivode (regional governor) in the area where the job will be located.
  2. The voivode will review the application and make a decision within 30 days.
  3. If the application is approved, the expat must visit a Polish consulate or embassy to obtain a visa.

Documents Required to Apply for a Work Permit in Poland

The documents required to apply for a work permit in Poland are:


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  • Completed application form
  • Copy of the expat’s passport
  • Proof of the employer’s registration with the National Court Register or the Central Register and Information on Economic Activity
  • Proof of the expat’s qualifications and experience
  • Job description
  • Evidence that no qualified Polish or EU citizen is available to fill the position

All documents must be in Polish or officially translated into Polish.

Costs of Applying for a Work Permit in Poland

The cost of applying for a work permit in Poland depends on the type of permit and the duration of the permit. The fees can range from PLN 50 (approximately $13 USD) for a Type B Work Permit to PLN 640 (approximately $170 USD) for a Blue Card.

Where to Find Reliable Information on Working Legally in Poland

Expats can find reliable information on working legally in Poland from the following sources:


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