Residency Guide to 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.

• Gather the necessary documents for residency status in Poland. These include:
  • Valid passport
  • Proof of health insurance
  • Proof of financial means
  • Proof of accommodation
• Visit the local Voivode Office in the area of Poland where you will be living. You will need to fill out an application for residency status.
• Submit the application and the necessary documents to the Voivode Office.
• Pay the applicable fees.
• Wait for the Voivode Office to process your application. This can take up to two months.
• Once your application is approved, you will receive a residence card.
• Apply for a Tax Number at the local Tax Office.
  • Bring your residence card and passport to the Tax Office.
  • Fill out the necessary forms.
  • Submit the forms and documents to the Tax Office.
  • Wait for the Tax Office to process your application. This can take up to two weeks.
  • Once your application is approved, you will receive a Tax Number.

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

"If you plan to stay in Poland for an extended period of time, you will need to apply for a residence permit. Depending on the purpose of your stay, you may need to apply for a different type of residence permit. For example, if you are coming to Poland to work, you will need to apply for a work permit. If you are coming to Poland to study, you will need to apply for a student visa. Additionally, you may need to apply for a visa if you are coming from a country that requires a visa for entry into Poland," said one expat living 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.