Translated automatically. Before launch it will be reviewed by native speakers. In case of doubt, the Polish version applies.
Living and working in Poland — simply explained, in many languages
Living in Poland or want to work here?
We explain in plain language how to stay in Poland legally: residence card, work permit, permanent residence and citizenship. Step by step, with document lists and links to official sources.
- Many languagescontent in your language
- Official sourceslinked in every guide
- Freethe portal is free for foreigners
Most common matters
Choose a topic. Every guide has steps, documents, deadlines and links to the offices.
Residence card — temporary residence permit
How to stay in Poland longer than your visa allows: who can apply, how, documents and deadlines.
Read the guide →Working in Poland — permits and exceptions
Who can work without a permit, what types of permits exist and who applies.
Read the guide →Permanent residence and EU long-term resident
How to stay in Poland permanently: two different permits, conditions and benefits.
Read the guide →Polish citizenship
Granting by the President and recognition by the voivode — the differences and who can apply.
Read the guide →How it works
- 1
Check your situation
Answer a few questions — we will suggest which permit applies to you.
- 2
Read the guide
Steps, documents and deadlines in your language, with links to official websites.
- 3
Get it done
On your own, online — or with a lawyer if your case is difficult.
Law changes
We follow the Polish Parliament (Sejm) and the Journal of Laws. Here you will see new rules and draft laws that may affect foreigners.
What it is about: Draft law (by MPs) amending the law on granting protection to foreigners.
Poselski projekt ustawy o zmianie ustawy o udzielaniu cudzoziemcom ochrony na terytorium Rzeczypospolitej Polskiej.
Open source ↗What it is about: Exceptions to visa-free travel for some foreigners — may mean you need a visa.
Rozporządzenie Ministra Spraw Zagranicznych z dnia 10 sierpnia 2026 r. w sprawie ustanowienia wyjątków od zwolnienia z obowiązku wizowego wobec cudzoziemców, o których mowa w art. 6 ust. 3 rozporządzenia Parlamentu Europejskiego i Rady (UE) 2018/1806
Open source ↗What it is about: List of countries whose citizens — even with a work permit — cannot work during a visa-free stay. Important before starting work without a visa.
Rozporządzenie Ministra Rodziny, Pracy i Polityki Społecznej z dnia 31 lipca 2026 r. w sprawie wykazu państw, których obywatele posiadający zezwolenie na pracę nie są uprawnieni do wykonywania pracy w czasie pobytu na terytorium Rzeczypospolitej Polskiej w ramach ruchu bezwizowego
Open source ↗
Job offers
We publish offers for people who can work in Poland without a work permit: citizens of Poland, the EU/EEA and Switzerland, and holders of permanent residence or EU long-term resident status.
See the rules →