Poland has become one of the most important destinations for non-EU workers in Europe. Employers in logistics, manufacturing, construction, hospitality and IT recruit abroad every year, and the process for hiring foreigners is well established. But for most non-EU citizens, a job offer is only the first step: before you can start work, you need the right permission — and your paperwork has to match your job exactly.
This guide walks you through the process, step by step.
Do you need a work permit?
Citizens of the EU, the European Economic Area and Switzerland can work in Poland without a permit. Most other nationals need one, although some groups are exempt — for example:
- holders of a permanent residence permit or an EU long-term resident permit,
- full-time students at Polish universities and graduates of full-time studies in Poland,
- holders of the Pole's Card (Karta Polaka).
If you are not sure whether an exemption applies to you, check before you sign anything. Working without the required permission can lead to fines for your employer and a return decision for you.
The main routes to legal work
Work permits come in several types. Types A to E are issued by the voivode (the regional governor's office), while seasonal permits are handled by the district labour office.
| Type | When it is used |
|---|---|
| A | Work for an employer whose registered office or branch is in Poland — by far the most common |
| B | Serving on the management board of a Polish company for more than 6 months in a 12-month period |
| C, D, E | Postings by a foreign employer to Poland, for example to a Polish branch or to deliver an export service |
| Seasonal | Seasonal work in sectors such as agriculture, horticulture and tourism — up to 9 months in a calendar year |
Declarations on entrusting work (oświadczenie o powierzeniu wykonywania pracy) are a simpler route for citizens of Armenia, Belarus, Georgia and Moldova, allowing work for up to 24 months. Citizens of Ukraine can generally be employed on the basis of a notification submitted by the employer.
What changed in June 2025
A new law on employing foreigners came into force on 1 June 2025. The most important changes for applicants are:
- applications are now submitted only electronically, through the praca.gov.pl portal,
- the labour market test has been abolished, although authorities can refuse permits for occupations on local restricted lists,
- the contract must be concluded in writing before work begins, and its terms must match the permit,
- penalties for illegal employment are significantly higher.
You can read more in our news story on Poland's new law on employing foreigners.
Step by step: from job offer to first day
- Get a genuine job offer. Confirm that the employer exists, check its entry in the National Court Register (KRS) and make sure the job title, working hours and salary are in writing. Pay must be at least the Polish minimum wage, adjusted for working time.
- The employer applies for the permit. The application is filed online by the employer, not by you. You will be asked for a copy of your passport and details of your qualifications and experience.
- Receive the permit. Once the permit is issued, the employer sends you a copy. Check that your name, passport number, position and salary are correct.
- Apply for a national (D-type) visa. Book an appointment at the Polish consulate or visa centre responsible for your country of residence. You will typically need your passport, photos, the work permit, travel medical insurance, proof of accommodation and proof of sufficient funds.
- Travel, sign and start. Sign your written contract before your first working day. Your employer then registers you with the Social Insurance Institution (ZUS), which also gives you access to public healthcare.
- Plan your next step early. Your visa has an end date. If you plan to stay longer, prepare your temporary residence card application well before it expires.
Processing times differ between regions and seasons — anything from several weeks to a few months — so start as early as you can.
Common mistakes that cost time
- Details that don't match. The position, salary or working hours in your contract differ from those in the permit.
- Working for someone else. A Type A permit covers one employer and one position. Taking a second job or switching employers usually requires a new permit.
- Letting your visa run out. Residence applications must be filed while your stay is still legal.
- Paying for "guaranteed" permits. No one can guarantee a decision. Read our guide on how to spot a fake job offer.
How EU Prime Serwis can help
Our team reviews job offers and contracts, helps you put together a complete application file, coordinates with your employer and guides you through the consulate stage — so that your paperwork matches your job from day one. Book a free consultation to discuss your case.
This guide summarises the rules in force at the time of writing. Immigration rules change regularly and every case is different, so always confirm the current requirements before you apply.