Extending Your Work Permit in Poland: What About Family Members?

Extending Your Work Permit in Poland: Information for Family Members #

When extending your work permit in Poland, it’s essential to understand how this affects your family members. Here’s a detailed explanation:

Legal Basis #

• Act on Foreigners: The primary legislation governing the residence and employment of foreigners in Poland is the Act of 12 December 2013 on Foreigners.

Family Member Residence Permits #

Family members of foreign workers in Poland may be eligible for a temporary residence permit based on family reunification. This permit allows them to live in Poland for the duration of your work permit.

• Who Qualifies as a Family Member? Generally, this includes your spouse and minor children.
• Requirements: To obtain a temporary residence permit for family members, you must typically demonstrate that:
  • You have a valid work permit or a temporary residence permit for work purposes.
  • You have stable and regular income sufficient to cover the living expenses of your family members. The amount required is specified by Polish law and is updated periodically.
  • You have health insurance coverage for your family members or proof that they are covered by the Polish national health system (NFZ).
  • You have suitable accommodation in Poland.

Application Process #

The application process for a temporary residence permit for family members generally involves the following steps:

1. Gathering Documents: Collect all necessary documents, including:
   • Application form (available from the Voivodeship Office).
   • Copies of your passport and your family members’ passports.
   • Copies of your work permit and residence permit (if applicable).
   • Marriage certificate (if applying for a spouse).
   • Birth certificates of children (if applicable).
   • Proof of health insurance.
   • Proof of sufficient income.
   • Proof of accommodation (e.g., rental agreement).
2. Submitting the Application: Submit the application to the Voivodeship Office (Urząd Wojewódzki) competent for your place of residence in Poland.
3. Waiting for a Decision: The processing time can vary, so it’s important to apply well in advance of the expiration of your current permit.

Extending Family Member Permits #

When you extend your work permit, your family members will also need to extend their temporary residence permits. The process is similar to the initial application:

• Renewal Application: Submit a renewal application to the Voivodeship Office before the expiration of their current permits.
• Updated Documents: Provide updated documents, including your extended work permit, proof of continued income, health insurance, and accommodation.

Important Considerations #

• Deadlines: Ensure that all applications are submitted before the expiration date of the current permits to avoid any legal issues.
• Changes in Circumstances: If there are any changes in your circumstances (e.g., change of employer, change of address), notify the Voivodeship Office immediately.
• Legal Assistance: Consider seeking legal assistance from an immigration lawyer or consultant to ensure that you meet all the requirements and navigate the process smoothly.

Official Resources #

• Office for Foreigners (Urząd do Spraw Cudzoziemców): The official website provides detailed information on residence permits and the application process: https://udsc.gov.pl/en/
• Voivodeship Offices (Urzędy Wojewódzkie): Contact the relevant Voivodeship Office for specific requirements and application procedures in your region.

By understanding these rules and regulations, you can ensure that your family members can legally reside with you in Poland while you work.