Why migrate to Poland?

The official Republic of Poland is located in central Europe. Living and working in the country is much cheaper than compared to other European countries. The principal reasons why people choose Poland are affordable food prices, rents and entertainment. Although the majority of the workforce is in the service sector, other main industries that function in Poland are chemicals, coal mining, food processing, iron and steel, glass, machine building, shipbuilding and textiles. With a stable democracy and robust economy- Poland is rapidly creating new job opportunities for skilled and unskilled people.

What is a work permit?

A work permit is a document that authorizes a foreigner to work legally in Poland. A permit is issued by the voivode (local governor) competent for the seat / place of residence of the employer. The permit indicates the company that entrusts the execution of work to the foreigner and the position or the type of work which the foreigner is to perform. The work is therefore regarded as legal only if the foreigner performs the work identified in the permit. This means that if the foreigner wants to change jobs (i.e. change employer and / or position and / or industry) in which he is employed, he must obtain a new permit.

Who requires a work permit in Poland?

A foreigner who is not a national of an EU member state is entitled to perform work in the Republic of Poland.
Based on work permit if he legally resides in Poland:
1. A temporary residence will be permitted.
2. A Schengen visa or another residence document issued by another Schengen Area member state.
3. If the provisions of an agreement concerning visa-free travel foresee the performance of work by foreigners.

Validity period of work permits

A work permit is issued for a fixed period. However, for no longer than 3 years. In this case, If foreigners who perform work as members of boards of companies, employing more than 25 people at the time of application for a permit, then voivode may issue a permit for a period of not longer than 5 years. The law indicates the work permit time period. The voivode may shorten the period for which work permits in the voivodship are issued. The validity of the permit to work may therefore vary between voivodships.