Planning an Expansion to Poland? Navigate the Work Visa Process

If your company has its sights set on expanding to Poland, it’s essential to assemble a skilled team of employees to
facilitate this transition. Acquiring permits for foreign employees to live and work in Poland can be a complex task,
given the priority given to Polish citizens. However, understanding the visa and work permit process can make a
significant difference.

Types of Work Visas in Poland

As a member of the European Union (EU), citizens of other EU member states can work in Poland without a specific
permit. For others, a combination of a visa for entry and a work permit is required.

Various visa options are available for non-EU citizens seeking to work in Poland, including:

1.Work Permit (Type A): Required for foreign individuals employed by a Polish company.

2.Work Permit (Type C or E): Available for those on an intracompany transfer to Poland.

3.Business Visa (Schengen Visa C or D): Suitable for business-related visits.

4.Freelance/Entrepreneur Visa: For self-employed or entrepreneurial activities.

Note that each work permit category has its own requirements. Employees must possess both a valid visa or residence
permit and a work permit.

Requirements for Obtaining Poland Work Visas

The employer is responsible for submitting several documents to obtain a work permit on behalf of a foreign employee.
These documents include:

• Completed application form
• Evidence of payment of application fees
• Confirmation of the employer’s legal status from the National Court Register
• Current records of the employer’s economic activity
• Copies of the applicant’s passport pages with relevant travel information
• Evidence of the applicant’s health insurance
• Company deed
• Statement of profits or losses sustained by the employer
• Contract in accordance with services provided in Poland

Application Process

Individuals planning to work in Poland need a Polish employer to apply for a work permit on their behalf. The
application process involves several steps:

1.Conducting a Labor Market Test: Before applying for a foreign work permit, the employer must
conduct a labor market test to determine if suitable Polish citizens or EU nationals are available to fill
the position.

2.The Application Process: The employer submits the work permit application, including
documentation proving compliance with employment conditions and remuneration criteria.

3.Issuing the Work Permit: Polish work permits are issued by the local government head, the
Voivode. Once approved, three copies of the permit are made for the Voivodeship Office, the employer, and
the employee.

It’s important to note that the work permit is valid only for the duration of the employee’s tenure with the
initiating employer. Switching careers requires a new work permit application.