Moving to Poland: Honest Advice for Your Next Big Move
Thinking about relocating to Poland? Whether you’re chasing a new career, reuniting with family, easing into retirement, or simply fancy a new adventure (and don’t mind some bureaucracy with your coffee), you’ve come to the right place.
Living in Poland is your go-to guide for starting fresh in one of Europe’s most underrated gems. We’re not here to sugarcoat it—moving abroad can be exciting, liberating, confusing, and at times, utterly baffling. Especially when you’re asked to sign a form in triplicate… using blue ink… at an office open for 17 minutes a week.
We created this site for people like you—those navigating the thrill and chaos of a new life in Poland. Whether you’re wondering how to get a visa, swap your driving licence, find a decent flat, deal with ZUS, or just figure out why your post keeps going to the other Number 12, we’ve got you covered.
From the cobbled streets of Kraków to the coast of Gdańsk, and from public transport hacks to private healthcare tips, you’ll find real advice from real people who’ve made the leap (and occasionally tripped over the paperwork).
Didn’t find what you were looking for? Head over to our Full FAQ section for more detailed info.
Do I need a work permit to work in Poland?
Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens require a valid work permit to work legally in Poland.
EU/EEA/Swiss citizens can work without a permit but must register their stay if exceeding 90 days.
Type A: For foreigners employed by a Polish entity.
Type B: For board members residing in Poland for over 6 months within a year.
Type C: For employees delegated to a Polish branch of a foreign employer.
Type D: For employees sent to Poland to perform export services.
Type E: For employees performing work not covered by other permit types.
How can I apply for a work permit in Poland?
Employer’s Responsibility: The employer must apply for the work permit on behalf of the foreign employee.
Required Documents: Include application form, proof of legal status of the employer, employment contract, and employee’s passport copies.
Fees: Vary depending on the type and duration of the permit.
What is the validity period of a work permit?
Duration: Typically issued for up to 3 years, depending on the employment contract.
Renewal: Employers can apply for an extension before the permit expires.
Yes, a work permit allows employment, but a National D-type visa is required for entry and stay in Poland.
Application: Submit visa application to the Polish consulate in your home country with necessary documents.
Can I change employers while holding a work permit? Not Automatically: A work permit is specific to the employer and position.
New Permit Required: Changing employers necessitates obtaining a new work permit.
What types of residency permits are available in Poland?
Temporary Residence Permit: Issued for stays longer than 90 days, valid for up to 3 years.
Permanent Residence Permit: Typically available after 5 years (EU citizens) or 10 years (non-EU citizens).
Long-Term EU Resident Permit: For non-EU nationals after 5 years of legal stay, stable income, and health insurance.
Application Submission: Must be done at your local Voivodeship Office (Urząd Wojewódzki).
Required Documents: Application form, passport, accommodation proof, insurance, and purpose of stay.
Important: While the official processing time for obtaining Temporary Residency in Poland is 60 days, in reality, it can take several months or even up to 2 years, depending on the region where you apply.
During this waiting period:
You are not permitted to work
You cannot leave Poland, or your application may be cancelled
Plan accordingly and be prepared for potential delays.
Yes, but be prepared for paperwork. You’ll need proof of purchase, customs clearance if it’s from outside the EU, a Polish technical inspection, and translations of all documents. Excise duty applies based on engine size. Once that’s all sorted, you register it like any local vehicle.
Not Automatically: A work permit is specific to the employer and position.
New Permit Required: Changing employers necessitates obtaining a new work permit.