Temporary Residence Card in Poland — How to Get It? Documents & Procedure

The temporary residence card is a plastic biometric document issued by the Voivodeship Office competent for the foreigner's place of residence. It confirms the right to legal residence in Poland and — depending on the basis of issue — may also entitle the holder to legal work.

The card is issued for a maximum of 3 years. After expiry, a new application can be submitted or — after the required period — an application for a permanent residence card or EU long-term resident card.

Foreigners working in Poland

Persons employed under an employment contract or working on another basis may apply for a residence card with the purpose: work. A valid work permit or employer declaration is required.

Students and pupils

Foreigners admitted to studies or courses at Polish universities can obtain a residence card for the duration of their education.

Family members

Persons who are spouses or children of Polish citizens or foreigners legally residing in Poland.

Business owners

Foreigners who are owners or partners of Polish companies may apply for a residence card on the basis of running a business.

Other cases

The Act on Foreigners provides for many other grounds for applying for a temporary residence card, including education, scientific research, volunteering, Karta Polaka and others.

The list of documents depends on the basis for applying for the residence card. Below are the documents required in most cases:

• Completed and signed application form (available at the office or online)
• 2 recent photographs (35x45 mm, white background, face without glasses, in digital format)
• Valid travel document — passport (original + copies of all pages)
• Proof of health insurance (national health fund NFZ or private)
• Documents confirming the purpose of stay (e.g. employment contract, university certificate, marriage certificate)
• Documents confirming stable source of income (bank statement, pay slip)
• Proof of payment of stamp duty — PLN 340–640 (depending on the type of permit)
• Legal title to the accommodation (lease agreement, owner's declaration)

1. 1Gathering complete documentation — the key stage that determines the success of the application.
2. 2Submission of application at the Voivodeship Office competent for the place of residence (in person or through a representative).
3. 3Fingerprinting — at the time of application or at a separate appointment (depends on the office).
4. 4Waiting for the decision — the office may call for supplementary documents.
5. 5Issue of decision — after a positive decision, the residence card is produced.
6. 6Personal collection of the residence card at the office (foreigner's presence required).

The waiting time for the application to be processed ranges from 2 to even 12 months and depends on:

• Voivodeship — waiting time in Masovian (Warsaw) is usually longer due to the largest number of applications in Poland.
• Completeness of documentation — missing documents significantly extend the procedure.
• Legal basis of the application — some categories are processed on a priority basis.
• Current workload of the office — seasonal fluctuations affect waiting time.

After submitting a complete application, you receive a stamp in your passport or a certificate that entitles you to legal residence and — in most cases — to work throughout the waiting period.

• Stamp duty for the decision: PLN 340–640
• Residence card fee: PLN 100
• Total: PLN 440–740

Fees are paid to the account of the competent office. The stamp duty is non-refundable.

Can I work while waiting for the residence card?

In most cases yes — if you have a stamp in your passport after submitting the application and a valid work permit or employer declaration. Details depend on your individual situation.

What happens if the office refuses to issue the card?

You have the right to appeal against a refusal decision. Contact us — we will check the grounds for refusal and advise on next steps.

Does the residence card entitle me to travel within the Schengen area?

The temporary residence card alone does not entitle the holder to visa-free entry into other Schengen countries. However, combined with a valid passport, it may enable short visits — this depends on the regulations of each country.

• Free preliminary assessment of your situation and selection of the optimal path.
• Preparation and verification of the completeness of documents.
• Representation before the Voivodeship Office on the basis of a power of attorney.
• Monitoring of case progress and ongoing status updates.
• Assistance in case of a call for supplementary documents or a refusal decision.