Frequently Asked Questions
We answer the questions that clients ask most often.
1. What are the legal reasons for obtaining a residence permit?
A residence permit is issued based on work, study, business, family reunification, marriage to a Polish citizen, humanitarian, and other reasons.
2. How long does it take to receive a residence permit?
The processing time depends on the voivodeship, usually it takes from 5 to 12 months, sometimes longer.
3. What should I do if my residence permit application is rejected?
You can file an appeal or a new application, correcting any deficiencies. We assist at all stages.
4. What are the reasons for refusing a residence permit?
The main reasons include: incomplete documents, unstable income, lack of a rental agreement, errors in the application, and false information.
5. Is it possible to speed up the entire process? (pol.”ponaglenie”)?
Yes, you can submit an official “ponaglenie” to the office. We prepare such requests for our clients.
6. What should I do if my residence card was lost or stolen?
You must report the loss to the police and submit a request for duplicate to the appropriate office.
7. Do I need to change my residence card if I change employers?
If your card is linked to a specific employer, when you change jobs, you must either exchange the issued permit for a new company or submit a new application.
8. Can I change employers while waiting for my residence card?
Yes, but you must notify the appropriate office and provide a new set of documents from the new employer.
9. Changing employers after receiving the residence card.
It is possible, but if the card is “for a specific employer,” you must either exchange the permit for a new company or reapply.
10. Can I travel abroad while waiting for my residence card?
Yes, you can if you have a valid visa or biometric passport (visa-free). The stamp in your passport is only valid within Poland. You can almost always leave the country while your application is pending, but you will need a visa to return to Poland.
11. Can I start working while my application is being processed (based on the stamp in my passport)?
Yes, if you submitted the documents on time and your employer has issued the appropriate permit.
12. What discounts are available when paying for a residence card?
Discounts are provided for students, children, and certain categories of foreign nationals.
1. What is a long-term residence in Poland?
This is legal residence without long-term departures. Departures are usually permitted for up to six months in a row and no more than 10 months in total.
2. What are the requirements for a stable and regular income??
Income must cover living and housing costs and cannot be lower than the subsistence minimum in Poland.
3. How to calculate housing costs correctly (koszty zamieszkania)?
The costs of renting an apartment or room, utilities and other mandatory fees are taken into account.
4. I’ve lived in Poland for eight years but was unemployed for three months. Can I apply for a long-term EU resident permit?
Each case is individual. It is important to prove continuous residence and sufficient funds for the remaining period.
5. What are the legal reasons for obtaining Polish citizenship.
This may include marriage to a citizen, long-term residence, Polish descent, outstanding achievements, international service, or a decision of the President of Poland.
1. Requirements for photos attached to applications.
A 35×45 mm photo taken against a light background, without a hat or sunglasses, the face must occupy 75-80% of the photo.
2. Certificate of no arrears in payments – where can I get it?
At the tax office (Urząd Skarbowy) or in ZUS.
3. What is PKD?
It is a classification of economic activities in Poland.
4. What does a regulated profession mean?
This is a profession that requires special permission or recognition of a diploma (e.g., doctor, lawyer).
5. Where can I get a certificate from ZUS about paid contributions?
At a ZUS office or online (PUE ZUS).
1. How do I calculate the number of days of visa-free stay?
The 90/180 rule works: 90 days of stay within the last 180 days.
2. Can I stay in Poland without a visa after my Type D visa expires?
No, a new legal reason is needed.
3. List of countries whose citizens can enter Poland visa-free:
This rule includes: Ukraine, Georgia, Moldova, the USA, Canada, and EU countries. The full list is available on the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
1. Who can receive international protection status?
Persons facing persecution or danger in their country of origin.
2. What are the processing times for international protection cases?
Such cases usually last a few months, but the process can take longer.
3. Can I work during the processing period?
You can receive a work permit six months after submitting your application.
4. Do I have to return my passport after submitting my application?
Yes, your passport is handed over to the office for safekeeping.
5. Can I travel to my country of origin while I’m under protected status?
No, this is contrary to the status itself.
6. Can I renounce protected status in Poland?
Yes, you can submit an application to renounce it.
1. What is the National Court Register (KRS)?
It is a database of Polish companies, foundations and organizations.
2. Do I need to exchange my foreign driver’s license for a Polish one?
Yes, if you have been living in Poland for more than 185 days and your license does not comply with international standards.
3. What is the difference between gross and net salary?
Gross is the sum of all contributions and increases. Netto is the amount you actually receive.
4. Why do you need funds to purchase a return ticket?
This is proof that you will be able to leave Poland if necessary.
5. How can we help you legalize your stay?
Legalize & Stay supports clients at every stage: consultations, document preparation, process monitoring, and communication with the office.
6. What will change in 2026?
Changes to laws regarding the employment of foreign nationals and the digitalization of processes are planned. We are monitoring updates and providing consultations to clients.
7. How can you contact us?
You can call, write an e-mail or fill out the form on the website.