If you’re considering working in an EU country, such as Poland, one of the first things you’ll need as a non-EU citizen is a Poland work visa. We’ll walk you through the types of Poland work visas. How to apply, and what to expect when moving and live in Poland?
Whether you’re looking for skilled or unskilled work, understanding the visa process is essential.
What is a Poland work visa?
A Poland work visa is a document that allows non-EU citizens to legally work and stay in Poland for a specified period. It is essential for those who wish to work in Poland legally and avoid penalties or deportation.
Types of work visas in Poland
There are two primary types of visas that non-EU citizens apply for when intending to work in Poland:
- D-Type National Visa (long-term work) – This visa allows you to stay in Poland for over 90 days (typically up to 1 year). It also enables travel within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This is the main visa type for employment purposes in Poland.
- C-Type Schengen Visa (short-term stay) – This visa allows stays of up to 90 days in the Schengen Area but does not permit general employment in Poland. It can only be used for work in exceptional cases (e.g. for certain nationals such as Ukrainians or Moldovans under registered declarations of employment).
Important (new regulations 2025): Since June 1, 2025, working in Poland on a visa issued by another Schengen country is strictly prohibited. All work in Poland must be based on a valid Polish national visa or residence permit.
How to apply for a Poland work visa?
Step 1: Obtain a job offer
You must first secure a job offer from a Polish employer.
Step 2: Your employer applies for a work permit
Your employer applies for the appropriate type of work permit:
- Type A: For employees hired by a Polish employer.
- Type B: For foreigners on management boards.
- Type C / E: For employees delegated by foreign companies to work in Poland.
- Type S: For seasonal work (up to 9 months per year).
- Freelance/self-employed work permit: Available from 2025 for those setting up their own business.
Note: In many sectors the labour market test (checking if no Polish/EU worker can fill the position) has been simplified or waived. Local restrictions may still apply.
Step 3: Apply for a work visa
Once you have the work permit, apply at the Polish consulate in your country. Required documents typically include:
- A valid passport
- Completed visa application form
- Work permit
- Employment contract
- Proof of accommodation in Poland
- Health insurance covering at least €30,000
Step 4: Arrival in Poland and residence permit
If staying beyond 90 days, you must apply for a temporary residence permit to legalize your stay. This can often be done alongside work permit extension procedures.
Polish work visa requirements (2025)
- Valid passport (minimum 3 months beyond intended stay)
- Valid work permit
- Job offer or contract
- Proof of financial means
- Health insurance
- No criminal record (in some cases)
Important updates for 2025
- No work on Schengen visa issued by another EU country — You must have a Polish visa or residence permit.
- Digital application process — Most work permit and visa applications must now be submitted electronically.
- Stricter penalties — Fines have increased (up to 50,000 PLN for employers and up to 5,000 PLN for foreigners).
- New visa types — Blue Card rules have been eased (lower salary threshold, business activity allowed). Job-seeker visa is available for highly qualified professionals.
Working in Poland on a type D visa
Once approved, you can legally work in Poland within the conditions specified on your visa. It’s essential to comply with all visa terms to avoid penalties. Remember to apply early for extensions if you plan to continue working.
Your D visa allows limited travel within the Schengen Area (90 days in any 180-day period), but does not permit work in other Schengen countries without additional permits.
Staying in Poland after visa expiry
If you wish to remain in Poland beyond your visa validity:
- Apply for a visa extension or change your status (e.g. to a residence permit)
- Overstaying your visa may result in fines, deportation, and bans on re-entering Schengen countries
Why you must obtain a visa before coming to Poland
A valid visa ensures your stay and employment in Poland are legal. Applying in advance:
- Avoids legal issues
- Ensures smooth entry and work commencement
- Allows access to healthcare (NFZ registration may be required)
Conclusion Poland work visa types
If you want to work in Poland, you must obtain a work permit and a work visa. The work permit application process starts with securing a job offer from a Polish employer. Your employer applies for the proper work permit for you. The type of permit depends on your job and situation. Type A permit is for employees hired by a Polish company. Type C permit is for people sent to Poland by a foreign employer. There are other permit types for different cases.
Freelancers can apply for a freelance visa in Poland. Work permits also cover work in export services or Polish branches.
Once you have a work permit and visa, submit your application at the nearest Polish embassy or consulate. The Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs manages the visa process in Poland. You must provide valid documents during the visa application process. These include a work permit, job offer, proof of accommodation, and insurance.
Your visa allows you to enter Poland legally. You can stay in the Schengen area for limited periods. The visa is valid mainly for work in Poland. A type D national visa is common for stays over 90 days. It also permits short travel within other Schengen countries. The type C Schengen visa is rarely used for employment. It applies only in specific cases under special conditions.
More important things about visa
Foreign individuals sent to work in Poland, or those employed by a foreign employer, need to apply for both a permit and a work visa. A valid visa and permit provide authorization to work in Poland and ensure your stay is legal. The validity of the visa and validity of the permit depend on your employment conditions. Once in Poland, you may need to apply for a valid residence permit to extend your stay or switch to a residency permit for long-term employment. The employer can extend the work permit and help extend the work contract if needed.
Obtaining a work visa at least before arrival ensures compliance with the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs regulations. The visa in Poland is valid for two years in many cases, and the permit to work in Poland allows you to work in the country and stay continuously. While your visa allows the worker to stay in the Schengen area for short trips. Separate Schengen area and permits may be needed for work elsewhere.
Finally, registering with the Polish National Health Fund may be required once you start working. The complete process of obtaining a work permit, securing a work visa, and managing your residency in Poland is outlined on official websites found on the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs page.
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