Single Permit in Poland: Changing Jobs – What You Need to Know

Single Permit in Poland: Changing Jobs – What You Need to Know #

If you hold a single permit (Jednolite Zezwolenie na Pobyt i Pracę) in Poland and wish to change jobs, there are specific regulations you must follow. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

General Rule #

In general, a single permit is tied to a specific employer and position. Therefore, changing jobs usually requires you to obtain a new permit or amend your existing one.

Legal Basis #

• The Act on Foreigners (Ustawa o Cudzoziemcach): This law governs the legal stay and employment of foreigners in Poland.
• Regulations on Permits for Temporary Residence and Work (Zezwolenie na Pobyt Czasowy i Pracę): These regulations specify the conditions under which a single permit is issued and can be changed.

When is a Change of Permit NOT Required? #

According to Polish law, in some situations, you do not need to change or obtain a new single permit when changing jobs. These situations are very specific and require careful assessment.

• Article 120 of the Act on Foreigners: According to Art. 120 section 1a, you do not need to change your permit if all the following conditions are met:
  • You have a single permit.
  • You are changing jobs to a different employer.
  • Your new job has the same conditions specified in your current permit (position, salary not lower than specified in the permit, working hours).
  • The Voivode (Governor) of the region where you work has been notified within 15 days of the job change.

Steps to Change Jobs with a Single Permit #

1. New Job Offer: Secure a new job offer from a different employer.
2. Check Permit Conditions: Verify if the new job aligns with the conditions specified in your current single permit (position, salary, working hours).
3. Notify the Voivode (Governor): The most important step is that your new employer must notify the Voivode (Governor) who issued your single permit within 15 days of your change in employment. This notification must include details of your new employment.
4. Voivode’s Decision: The Voivode will review the notification. If the conditions are met, you can continue working without needing a new permit. If the conditions are not met, the Voivode may require you to apply for a new permit.

When a New Permit is Required #

You will likely need a new single permit if:

• The new job involves a different position than what is stated on your current permit.
• The salary is lower than what is specified on your current permit.
• The working hours are significantly different.
• The Voivode determines that the change requires a new permit application.

How to Apply for a New Single Permit #

1. Application Submission: Your new employer must submit an application for a single permit on your behalf to the appropriate Voivodeship Office (Urząd Wojewódzki).
2. Required Documents: The application typically requires:
   • Completed application form
   • Your passport copy
   • Proof of health insurance
   • Proof of legal stay in Poland (e.g., your current single permit)
   • Information about the employer
   • Job offer details (salary, position, working hours)
3. Waiting Period: The waiting period for a new single permit can vary, so it’s essential to apply as early as possible.

Important Considerations #

• Legal Stay: Ensure that your stay in Poland remains legal throughout the job change process. Do not overstay your current permit.
• Communication with Authorities: Maintain open communication with the Voivodeship Office to stay informed about the status of your application or notification.
• Work Legally: Only start working for the new employer once the job change has been properly notified and approved (if notification is sufficient) or a new permit has been issued.

Official Resources and Links #

• Act on Foreigners (Ustawa o Cudzoziemcach): You can find the official legal text on the Polish government’s legislative website (search for “Ustawa o Cudzoziemcach”).
• Voivodeship Offices (Urzędy Wojewódzkie): Contact the specific Voivodeship Office where you live or intend to work for detailed information and application procedures.
• Polish Government Website for Foreigners: This website provides general information about legal stay and work in Poland.

Disclaimer: Regulations can change, so it’s always best to consult directly with the relevant Voivodeship Office or seek legal advice to ensure you comply with the most current laws.