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Poland Work Visa Guide by Lex Visas

TYPES OF WORK VISAS / WORK PERMITS IN POLAND

A Polish employer must obtain work authorization before a foreign national can legally work in the country.

  1. Type A Work Permit

    Issued to foreigners employed by a Polish company under an employment contract. This is the most common category.

  2. Type B Work Permit

    For foreign nationals serving on the management board of a company residing in Poland for more than 6 months in 12 months.

  3. Type C Work Permit

    For employees delegated to Poland by a foreign employer for more than 30 days within a calendar year (intra-group assignments).

  4. Type D Work Permit

    For individuals assigned to provide export services in Poland by a foreign employer without a Polish branch.

  5. Type E Work Permit

    For assignments not covered under Types B – D.

  6. EU Blue Card

    For highly qualified professionals meeting education and salary thresholds; allows residence and work in Poland.

ELIGIBILITY AND REQUIREMENTS

Applicants must generally:

  • Have a valid job offer from a Polish employer
  • Ensure the employer applies for a work permit
  • Meet salary requirements (not lower than comparable Polish employees)
  • Hold a valid passport
  • Obtain a National (Type D) Visa for work (if applying from abroad)
  • Provide relevant educational and professional qualifications

Employers may need to complete a Labour Market Test unless exempt.

STEP-BY-STEP APPLICATION PROCESS

  • Employer applies for a work permit at the competent Voivodeship Office.
  • Labour Market Test conducted (if required).
  • Work permit decision issued.
  • Employee applies for National Type D visa at Polish consulate.
  • Travel to Poland.
  • Apply for Temporary Residence Permit (Karta Pobytu) if staying long-term.

PROCESSING TIME AND VALIDITY

  • Work Permit Processing: 4 – 12 weeks (varies by region).
  • Visa Processing: 2 – 4 weeks.
  • Validity: Typically up to 3 years (EU Blue Card may be issued for longer).
  • Renewable: Yes, subject to continued employment.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

A Poland Work Permit is an official authorization issued to a foreign national allowing them to legally work in Poland for a specific employer and position.
Processing usually takes between 4 and 12 weeks, depending on the Voivodeship and case complexity.
Work permits are issued by the relevant regional authority known as the Voivodeship Office (Urząd Wojewódzki).
Work authorization in Poland is employer-specific. If the employee changes employer, position, or key employment conditions, a new work permit may be required. Planning timelines in advance is crucial, especially where Labour Market Tests apply.

Disclaimer: The information provided is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Lex Visas Pvt. Ltd. is not a law firm. Content is based on industry experience and practical case handling. Any actions taken based on this information are at the reader’s sole discretion and responsibility.