Permanent Resident Card by
Employment in Poland
Permanent Resident Card by Employment in Poland: How to Obtain It and What Benefits It Offers
Poland is one of the leading countries in Europe attracting labor migrants. This is due to its stable economy, well-developed labor market, and reasonable cost of living. Many foreigners who begin working in Poland eventually consider staying for a longer period. In such cases, obtaining a Permanent Resident Card by employment is an optimal solution.
The Permanent Resident Card by employment (resident card) not only allows foreigners to reside and work legally in Poland without frequent renewal of permits, but also offers several other advantages. This article will explain who is eligible to apply for the resident card, what documents are needed, and how the application process works.
What is the Permanent Resident Card?
The Resident Card is an official document confirming a foreigner’s right to live permanently in Poland. Unlike a temporary residence permit, the Resident Card is issued indefinitely, granting its holders almost the same rights as Polish citizens.
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Steps to Apply for the Permanent Resident Card by Employment
The process includes several steps:
- Document Collection: To apply, the following documents are required:
- Passport
- Valid temporary residence card
- Documents confirming continuous legal residence and employment in Poland
- Employment contract or employer’s agreement
- Proof of tax and social security contributions (ZUS)
- Income statements proving financial independence
- Housing documents
- Health insurance
- Polish language proficiency certificate (B1 level)
- Application Submission: The application is submitted to the Voivodeship Office (Urząd Wojewódzki) in the applicant’s place of residence. The applicant fills out a form and submits the required documents. The state fee is about 640 PLN.
- Waiting for a Decision: The review process takes between 3 and 12 months, depending on the workload of the authorities and the completeness of the documents.
- Receiving the Permanent Resident Card: After approval, the applicant receives the Permanent Resident Card for 10 years, with the possibility of renewal.
Who is Eligible for the Permanent Resident Card by Employment?
Foreigners can apply for the Resident Card if they meet the following criteria:
- Continuous legal residence in Poland for 5 years on a temporary visa based on employment.
- Holding an EU Blue Card for at least 2 years.
- Professionals whose work is essential to the Polish economy, such as in IT, engineering, medicine, and other highly skilled sectors.
- Foreigners who have established their own business in Poland and confirmed its success and contribution to the economy.
It is important to note that continuous residence means no long breaks in the country, not exceeding six months consecutively or 10 months total throughout the entire period.
Get a free consultation
Submit your request, and we will help you navigate the complexities of legalizing your stay, employment, and business registration in Poland. Our team of experts is ready to answer your questions, assess your situation, and suggest the best course of action to achieve your goals. Fill out the form, and we will contact you at a convenient time.
Main Advantages of the Permanent Resident Card by Employment:
- Indefinite residence in Poland.
- Free access to the labor market without the need for a work permit.
- Access to social services, including healthcare, education, and pensions.
- Visa-free entry to Schengen countries for up to 90 days every six months.
- Eligibility to apply for Polish citizenship after several years of residence.
Benefits and Challenges
While obtaining a Permanent Resident Card by employment offers several advantages, applicants should also consider some challenges:
- Long waiting times – The process may take up to a year.
- Proof of continuous residence – Applicants must show evidence of uninterrupted legal residence in Poland.
- Language proficiency – Polish language knowledge is important for successful integration.
In conclusion, obtaining the Permanent Resident Card by employment is a good opportunity for foreigners planning to live and work in Poland long-term. It provides not only security in the form of permanent residency but also access to social services and the labor market without additional permits. To ensure a smooth process, it’s recommended to prepare documents in advance and seek advice from professionals if necessary.