Permanent Residence Card for Belarusians

Permanent Residence Card for Belarusians: Obtaining and Benefits

An increasing number of Belarusians are choosing Poland as their destination for relocation. The proximity of the two countries, shared cultural aspects, linguistic similarities, and diverse opportunities for professional growth make Poland an attractive country for migrants from Belarus. One of the most reliable ways to settle in Polish society is by obtaining a permanent residence card for Belarusians (Karta Stałego Pobytu).

The permanent residence card for Belarusians grants foreigners the right to live permanently in Poland and provides access to many rights that Polish citizens enjoy. In this article, we will examine how Belarusians can obtain a permanent residence card, what documents are needed, and how the application process works.

What is the Permanent Residence Card?

A permanent residence card is an official document that allows Belarusians to stay permanently in Poland. Unlike a temporary residence permit (Karta Pobytu Czasowego), the permanent residence card is issued for an indefinite period and does not require regular renewal.

Main benefits of the permanent residence card:

The right to live permanently in Poland.
The ability to work without needing additional permits.
Access to free healthcare.
Access to social services and education.
Visa-free travel within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
The possibility of applying for Polish citizenship several years after obtaining the card.

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Procedure for Obtaining the Permanent Residence Card for Belarusians

Obtaining the permanent residence card for Belarusians involves several steps:

Gathering necessary documents.

The following documents are required for the application:

Passport.
Current temporary residence card (if available).
Proof of legal residence in Poland (e.g., registration).
Documents confirming the basis for obtaining permanent residence (Polish Card, marriage certificate, employment contract, etc.).
Proof of income and employment.
Proof of tax payments and social insurance contributions (ZUS).
Health insurance.

Submitting the application.

The application must be submitted to the Voivodeship Office for Foreigners (Urząd Wojewódzki) in the applicant’s place of residence. The cost of the application is approximately 640 PLN.

Interview.

Some applicants may be invited for an interview, especially when applying based on Polish heritage or marriage. The interview assesses knowledge of the Polish language, culture, and history.

Waiting for the decision.

The processing time for the application can range from 3 to 12 months, depending on the region and complexity of the case.

Receiving the permanent residence card.

Once the application is approved, the applicant will receive the permanent residence card, which is valid for 10 years with the possibility of further renewal.

Who Can Obtain a Permanent Residence Card?

Belarusians can obtain a permanent residence card if they meet one of the following conditions:

Polish heritage or possession of a Polish Card.
If a Belarusian can prove Polish heritage (parents, grandparents of Polish nationality), they are eligible for permanent residence. Holders of the Polish Card, which confirms Polish national affiliation, are also eligible to apply.
Marriage to a Polish citizen.
A Belarusian who has been married to a Polish citizen for at least three years and has lived legally in Poland for at least two years is eligible to apply for the permanent residence card.
Long-term residence and employment.
If a Belarusian has lived in Poland for over 5 years, based on study or employment, they are also eligible to apply.
Refugee status or humanitarian protection.
Due to the complex political situation in Belarus, some citizens have obtained refugee status or humanitarian protection in Poland. After five years of residence with this status, they can apply for permanent residence.

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Benefits of the Permanent Residence Card for Belarusians

Obtaining this document provides several key benefits:

The ability to live permanently in Poland without needing to renew visas or permits.
Free access to the labor market. Cardholders are not required to obtain work permits, which simplifies employment and changing employers.
Access to the social system, including free healthcare and pension benefits.
The opportunity to integrate into Polish society and actively participate in the life of the country.
The chance to apply for Polish citizenship after 3–5 years of holding the permanent residence card.

Specific Features of Obtaining the Permanent Residence Card for Belarusians

Since 2020, Poland has simplified the process for Belarusian citizens, taking into account the political situation and the need to provide humanitarian protection. Many Belarusians have the opportunity to obtain a temporary residence permit through an expedited procedure, after which, after several years of residence, they can apply for permanent residence.

Moreover, Poland actively supports Belarusian professionals in fields such as IT, engineering, medicine, and other highly qualified professions, which creates additional opportunities for quickly obtaining residence and work permits.

Obtaining a permanent residence card for Belarusians is not only a chance to stay in Poland legally and permanently, but also an opportunity to build a stable life, develop professionally, and integrate into European society. Despite bureaucratic challenges, proper document preparation and following the process steps will help applicants successfully obtain this status and take advantage of all the benefits Poland offers.