Table of Contents
Work Permit Process in Poland for a New Employer #
If you’re planning to work for a new employer in Poland, understanding the work permit process is crucial. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
General Requirements #
As a general rule, non-EU/EEA citizens require a work permit to be legally employed in Poland. The employer usually handles the work permit application on your behalf.
- Type D Visa: Before applying for a work permit, ensure you have a valid visa (usually a Type D visa for long-term stay) or are otherwise legally residing in Poland.
- Employer’s Role: Your prospective employer initiates the work permit application process.
Types of Work Permits #
There are several types of work permits in Poland, each tailored to specific employment situations. The most common include:
- Type A: Applies to foreigners working in Poland based on an employment contract or civil law agreement with an employer whose registered office or place of residence is in Poland.
- Type C: Applies to foreigners delegated to Poland by a foreign employer for a period exceeding 30 days within a calendar year to work for a foreign employer’s branch or representative office, or a related entity.
- Type D: Applies to foreigners delegated to Poland by a foreign employer who does not have a branch, representative office, or related entity in Poland for the purpose of providing a temporary and occasional service (export service).
- Type E: Applies to foreigners working in Poland for a period exceeding 3 months within the next 6 months for purposes other than those specified in types A-D.
- Type S: Applies to foreigners delegated to Poland by a foreign employer.
Most likely, as a driver, you will fall under Type A, but confirm this with your employer.
The Work Permit Application Process #
- Labor Market Test (Information from the Starosta): The employer must first apply for information from the Starosta (local head of the district) to confirm that there are no qualified Polish or EU/EEA citizens available for the position. This is known as the labor market test.
- Application Submission: Once the labor market test is completed (if required), the employer submits the work permit application to the relevant Voivodeship Office (Urząd Wojewódzki).
- Required Documents: The employer needs to provide several documents, including:
- Application form
- Company registration documents
- Copies of your passport pages
- Proof of health insurance
- Proof of accommodation in Poland
- Information resulting from the labor market test (if required)
- Other documents depending on the specific circumstances
- Review and Decision: The Voivodeship Office reviews the application. This process can take several weeks or months.
- Work Permit Issuance: If the application is approved, the Voivode issues the work permit.
- Visa Application (if applicable): If you require a visa, you can then apply for a visa based on the work permit.
Important Considerations #
- Validity: Work permits are usually issued for a specific period, typically up to 3 years, depending on the type of permit and the job.
- Change of Employer: If you change employers, you generally need a new work permit. Your new employer must initiate the application process.
- Appeals: If the work permit is denied, the employer has the right to appeal the decision.
- Legal Stay: Ensure your stay in Poland is legal throughout the work permit application process. Overstaying your visa or residence permit can lead to serious consequences.
Where to Find More Information #
- Your Employer: Your prospective employer should be your primary source of information and assistance.
- Voivodeship Office (Urząd Wojewódzki): The relevant Voivodeship Office can provide detailed information about the work permit process.
- Official Government Websites:
Disclaimer: Immigration laws and regulations can change. Always verify the most current information with official sources or qualified legal counsel.
