Guide to Residency in Poland

Obtaining a residency visa in Poland is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Poland gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

• Understand the types of residence permits
  • Temporary Residence Permit: Valid for up to 3 years, for those who plan to stay in Poland for a specific purpose and time.
  • Permanent Residence Permit: Valid for an indefinite period, for those who have been living in Poland for at least 5 years continuously.
  • Long-term EU Residence Permit: Valid for an indefinite period, for those who have been living in Poland for at least 5 years continuously and have a stable and regular source of income.
• Check your eligibility
  • Have a valid reason for staying in Poland, such as work, study, or family reunification.
  • Have health insurance that covers the period of your stay in Poland.
  • Have sufficient financial means to support yourself during your stay in Poland.
• Prepare the required documents
  • Valid passport
  • Completed application form (available here)
  • Four recent photographs
  • Document confirming the purpose of your stay (e.g., work contract, acceptance letter from university, etc.)
  • Proof of health insurance
  • Proof of sufficient financial means
• Apply for a Tax Number (NIP)
  • Visit the nearest tax office (list of offices)
  • Bring your passport and a document confirming your address in Poland (e.g., rental agreement)
  • Fill out the NIP-7 form provided by the office
• Submit your application
  • Find the nearest voivodeship office (list of offices)
  • Make an appointment for submitting your application
  • Bring all the required documents and their photocopies
  • Pay the application fee
• Wait for the decision

  The processing time may take several months. You can check the status of your application online or by contacting the voivodeship office.

• Register your address
  • After receiving your residence permit, register your address at the local municipality office.
  • Bring your passport and residence permit.

Important Notes

All documents issued abroad must be translated into Polish by a sworn translator. Some documents may also require legalization or an apostille.

Always consult the official website of the Polish Office for Foreigners for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Poland?

"In order to visit Poland, foreign nationals must obtain a visa from a Polish embassy or consulate prior to their arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting a completed application form, a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, proof of financial means, and a travel itinerary. Depending on the purpose of the visit, additional documents may be required. In order to obtain residency in Poland, foreign nationals must apply for a residence permit. The process of applying for a residence permit involves submitting a completed application form, a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, proof of financial means, proof of health insurance, and proof of accommodation. Depending on the purpose of the stay, additional documents may be required," commented one member living in Poland.