Which path applies to you?
No work permit needed
As a citizen of the EU, EEA or Switzerland you can work in Poland on the same terms as Polish citizens. If you stay longer than 3 months, register your residence at the voivodeship office.
Register – we will help with the next stepsSimplified access for citizens of Ukraine
Citizens of Ukraine can work in Poland under simplified rules – the employer notifies the labour office (PUP) online within 7 days of the start of work. You also need a legal basis of stay, e.g. UKR status (PESEL UKR), the CUKR card, a visa or a residence card. The rules for Ukrainians changed in 2026 – we will check your current situation.
Exceptions: graduates of Polish universities, full-time students in Poland, holders of the Pole's Card (Karta Polaka) and people with certain residence permits can work without a work permit.
Register – we will help with the next stepsDeclaration of entrusting work (oświadczenie)
Citizens of Armenia, Belarus and Moldova can work on the basis of a declaration of entrusting work registered by the employer at the labour office – faster and cheaper than a work permit (up to 24 months). You also need a legal basis of stay, e.g. a work visa or visa-free entry with a biometric passport (Moldova). Note: since 1 December 2025 citizens of Georgia need a work permit.
Exceptions: graduates of Polish universities, full-time students in Poland, holders of the Pole's Card (Karta Polaka) and people with certain residence permits can work without a work permit.
Register – we will help with the next stepsWork permit + work visa
Most other citizens (e.g. India, Philippines, Nepal, Colombia, Georgia, Uzbekistan) need a work permit (usually type A). The employer applies for it online at praca.gov.pl. With the permit you apply for a national (D-type) work visa at the Polish consulate. The whole process may take from several weeks to several months – registering early helps.
Exceptions: graduates of Polish universities, full-time students in Poland, holders of the Pole's Card (Karta Polaka) and people with certain residence permits can work without a work permit.
Register – we will help with the next stepsTypes of work permits
A work permit is issued by the voivode at the employer's request. Since 1 June 2025 applications are submitted only electronically via praca.gov.pl, and the labour market test has been abolished. Remember: tourist, student and Schengen visas from other countries do not give the right to work.
Declaration of entrusting work (oświadczenie)
A simplified procedure for citizens of Armenia, Belarus, Moldova and Ukraine (Georgia was removed from the list on 1 December 2025). The employer submits the declaration online via praca.gov.pl to the district labour office (PUP). It allows work for up to 24 months, and work must start within 6 months. Not available for seasonal work.
Temporary residence and work permit (residence card)
If you want to stay longer, you can apply to the voivode for a single permit for temporary residence and work. Since 2026 applications are submitted online via the MOS system. After a positive decision you receive a residence card (karta pobytu) valid for up to 3 years. It allows you to live and work in Poland and travel within the Schengen area.
EU Blue Card
For highly qualified specialists with a higher education diploma or relevant professional experience and a salary above the required threshold. It gives easier family reunification and mobility in the EU.
Documents to prepare
- Valid passport (at least 15 months validity recommended)
- Passport-size photos
- Diplomas and certificates (e.g. welding, forklift, driving licence) – translated if possible
- CV with your work experience
- Health insurance (for the visa application)
- Proof of accommodation in Poland (for some procedures)
First steps after arrival
- Get a PESEL number – needed for a doctor, a bank and many services.
- Open a Polish bank account – salary is usually paid by bank transfer.
- Buy a Polish SIM card – registered with your passport.
- Register your address (zameldowanie) if you stay longer.
- Check your health insurance – with an employment contract you are insured in NFZ.
- Keep copies of your contract, visa and permit – you may need them at border control or the office.
ImportantNever pay anyone for a job offer or a "guaranteed" visa. Legal employment agencies in Poland are listed in the KRAZ register and are not allowed to charge candidates for job placement.
This guide is general information and not legal advice. Laws change – always check the current rules at gov.pl or praca.gov.pl, or ask our recruiter.
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