How to Apply for a Temporary Resident Permit in Poland: Full Document Checklist and Process Guide
- Lada Lohvina
- Jul 11
- 4 min read
Understanding the Temporary Resident Permit in Poland
If you plan to live in Poland for more than 3 months, applying for a temporary resident permit (known as karta pobytu) is essential. This permit grants you legal stay based on work, study, or family reasons. Officially referred to as zezwolenie na pobyt czasowy, the permit offers access to local services and a pathway to Poland permanent residence permit or even an EU long term residence permit Poland. In this guide, you’ll learn what documents are required and how to apply for a residence permit in Poland.
Types of Residence Permits in Poland
Poland offers several types of residence permits, depending on your reason for staying and the duration.
The temporary residence permit Poland (karta czasowego pobytu) is issued for up to 3 years. It suits those coming to work, study, or join family members. The permit comes in the form of a biometric residence card and is your proof of legal stay.
The permanent residence permit (karta stałego pobytu) is granted to those who have lived in Poland long-term, often after holding a temporary permit for several years. This status allows indefinite stay and access to more rights.
For non-Polish citizens wishing to settle in the EU, the EU long term residence permit Poland is a strong option. It grants long-term residency in Poland and may ease mobility across EU countries. It’s different from a regular residence permit, as it requires several years of legal stay, stable income, and integration into Polish society.
Knowing the differences between the temporary, permanent, and EU residence permits helps you plan your future in Poland effectively.
Who Can Apply for a Temporary Residence Permit
A temporary resident permit is available to non-EU citizens planning to stay in Poland for over 90 days. Common applicants include workers, students, business owners, and family members of Polish residents.
If you're coming to Poland for employment, you’ll need a Poland work permit or a registered employer sponsorship. Many rely on a Poland work permit agency to assist with this step. Once employed, you can apply for a karta pobytu based on your job contract.
Students at Polish universities can apply based on their enrollment letter and proof of financial support. Family reunification is also a valid reason — spouses or children of Polish or foreign nationals with valid permits can apply for a temporary residence permit.
Freelancers and entrepreneurs can apply too, but they must show stable income and business activities.
You must apply before your visa or previous residence permit expires. The temporary resident permit application should be submitted at the voivodeship office.
Holding a temporary residence permit Poland does not grant EU-wide mobility, but it is often the first step toward obtaining an EU long term residence permit or Poland permanent residence permit.
Document Checklist for Karta Pobytu Application
Applying for a karta pobytu (temporary residence permit) requires a full set of documents. Incomplete applications may be rejected or delayed. Here's what you need:
Completed application form – Available at the voivodeship office or online.
Valid passport – With at least 2 blank pages and a copy of all used pages.
Biometric photographs – Recent and meeting official size/format standards.
Proof of purpose of stay – Such as:
Work contract (for those with a Poland work permit)
University enrollment letter (for students)
Marriage/birth certificate (for family reunification)
Proof of financial resources – Bank statements or employer confirmation.
Health insurance – Private or public.
Proof of accommodation – Rental agreement or declaration from host.
Stamp duty payment confirmation – Usually 440–640 PLN depending on the case.
If renewing: your previous residence permit or karta pobytu.
After submission, you may receive a karta pobytu decision letter with a request for additional documents. Always respond promptly to avoid delays in receiving your biometric residence permit number.
How to Submit Your Application
Once all documents are prepared, it’s time to apply for your temporary resident permit. Applications must be submitted to the voivodeship office (Urząd Wojewódzki) in the region where you live.
You can apply for a residence permit in person. Some offices allow online appointment booking through their website. During the visit, you’ll submit the application, give fingerprints, and receive a stamped confirmation of submission — this document extends your legal stay during the review process.
Processing times vary but usually range from 1 to 6 months. In busy cities like Warsaw or Kraków, it may take longer. Make sure to check the status of your karta pobytu decision letter regularly, either online or via contact with the office.
If any documents are missing or unclear, you’ll receive a formal request for corrections. Failure to respond in time can lead to application rejection.
Once approved, you’ll be notified to collect your karta pobytu — the biometric residence permit card that proves your right to stay legally in Poland.
What’s Next: After Receiving Your Residence Permit
After receiving your karta pobytu, you're legally allowed to live in Poland for the duration granted (usually 1–3 years). This temporary residence permit can be renewed or upgraded. With time and continuous legal stay, you may become eligible for a Poland permanent residence permit or even an EU long term residence permit Poland. Always keep your biometric residence permit number safe and notify authorities of any changes in address or employment. With the right planning, a temporary resident permit can be your first step toward long-term stability in Poland.
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