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.
Simplified 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 – check the details in our guide.
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.
Declaration 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.
Work permit + work visa
Most other citizens (e.g. India, Philippines, Nepal, Colombia, Georgia, Uzbekistan) need a work permit (usually type A) or a residence card that allows work. The work permit is applied for by the employer online at praca.gov.pl, and with it you apply for a national (D-type) work visa at the Polish consulate.
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.
Types 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. Job placement is free for candidates – charging them for finding a job is illegal in Poland.
This guide is general information and not legal advice. Laws change – always check the current rules at gov.pl or praca.gov.pl.
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