10 Tips for a Successful Work Visa Application in Poland 2023
To increase your chances of a successful work visa application in Poland, consider the following tips:
- Understand the requirements: Familiarize yourself with the specific requirements and eligibility criteria for the work visa category you are applying for. Ensure you meet the minimum qualifications, including education, work experience, and language proficiency.
- Gather necessary documents: Prepare all required documents, including your passport, employment contract, proof of qualifications, and any other supporting documents specified by the Polish authorities.
- Ensure that your documents are accurate, up-to-date, and translated into Polish or English if required.
- Submit a complete application: Ensure that your application is complete, with all the necessary forms filled out accurately. Double-check that you have included all required documents and provide any additional information requested by the authorities.
- Follow the processing times: Be aware of the expected processing times for your visa application and submit your application well in advance to allow sufficient time for processing. Keep track of your application status and follow up if needed.
- Maintain clear communication: Respond promptly and accurately to any communication from the Polish authorities regarding your visa application. Provide any additional information or clarification they may require in a timely manner.
- Seek professional assistance if needed: Consider engaging the services of an immigration lawyer or a reputable visa agency experienced in Poland work visa applications. They can provide guidance, ensure your application is complete and accurate, and represent you if any issues arise.
- Be truthful and transparent: Provide honest and accurate information in your application and during any interviews or discussions with immigration officials. Any false or misleading information can lead to visa rejection or future immigration complications.
- Prepare for an interview: Depending on the visa category, you may be required to attend an interview. Familiarize yourself with the visa requirements and be prepared to answer questions about your qualifications, job offer, and intentions to work in Poland.
- Maintain financial stability: Having sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in Poland can enhance your visa application. Ensure you have enough savings or a stable source of income to cover your living expenses.
- Stay informed and updated: Regularly check for any updates or changes to the visa application process or requirements. Stay informed about any new policies or regulations that may affect your application.
Remember, the success of your work visa application ultimately depends on meeting the eligibility criteria, providing accurate and complete documentation, and following the instructions and guidelines provided by the Polish authorities.
Where are the available jobs?
According to a survey of labor demand conducted by Statistics Poland among organizations with at least one employee, 470 400 new positions were created in Poland in 2020, with the bulk of these employment being in the private sector (90,5%). The majority of new employment were generated in businesses with less than nine employees (39.1%), while the least number were in businesses with more than 49 employees (28.3%). In Poland, there were 83 400 positions on average in 2020, which is 41.3% less than in 2019. In 2020, there were 91 100 vacancies at the end of the third quarter, which was the most, and 76 500 at the end of the first quarter, which was the least.
The following PKD (Polish Classification of Activities) divisions had the majority of open positions in 2020 on average: manufacturing (19 900, or 22.9% of available positions), trade and repair of motor vehicles (12 200, or 14.6%), and building (10 500, or 12.6%).
According to the aforementioned survey, professionals (approximately 23,6%), craft and related trades workers (approximately 22,5%), plant and machine operators and assemblers (approximately 15,7%), clerical support workers (9.5%), service and sales workers (9.4%), and technicians and associate professionals (approximately 8.7%) had the most openings in 2020. According to the labor demand survey, just 14% of openings in 2020 were reported to labor offices; 26% of these openings were in the education sector, more than 21% in the construction sector, and only 1.4% were in the information and communication sector.
The following sections of the PKD (Polish Classification of Activities) had the highest proportions of job openings and sites of professional activation that were reported to labor offices in 2020:
- Administrative and support service activities – 316 000 job offers;
- Manufacturing – 245 500 job offers;
- Construction – 102 500 job offers;
- Wholesale and retail trade; repair of motor vehicles, including motorcycles – 98 800 job offers;
- Transportation and storage – 59 100 job offers.
- In 2020, the highest numbers of job vacancies and places of professional activation notified to labour offices were recorded for the following occupations:
- other manufacturing labourers – 58 300 job offers;
- other elementary workers not elsewhere classified – 52 300 job offers;
- hand packer – 49 500 job offers;
- stock clerk – 42 100 job offers;
- building caretaker – 31 100 job offers;
- building construction labourer – 31 100 job offers;
- warehouse worker – 29 500 job offers;
- processing industry labourer – 23 100 job offers;
- sales worker – 22 500 job offers;
- other cleaning workers not elsewhere classified – 19 400 job offers.
Based on the Occupational Barometer survey commissioned by the Minister of Development, Labour and Technology, carried out in all districts, 29 shortage occupations were identified in 2021 at the national level.
Among shortage occupations there were, among others:
- 9 building occupations: concrete placers and finishers, pavers, carpenters and joiners, construction roofers and sheet-metal workers, construction, installation assemblers, bricklayers and plasterers, earthmoving plant operators and mechanics, building finishers and building workers;
- 6 manufacturing occupations: electricians, electrical equipment repairers and installers, tailors and garment workers, metalworking machine operators, wood treaters and cabinet makers, welders, toolmakers;
- 5 medical and care industry occupations: physiotherapists and massage therapists, medical doctors, carers of older persons or persons with disabilities, nurses and midwives, ambulance workers;
- 3 TSL (transport, shipping, logistics) occupations – bus drivers, heavy truck and semi-trailer truck drivers and stock clerks;
- food industry and food service industry occupations: cooks, bakers;
- educational occupations: vocational training teachers, teachers of vocational subjects;
- Occupations of other categories – motor vehicle mechanics and repairers, independent accountants.
138 occupations were considered balanced at the national level. The following previously shortage groups became balanced: automotive sheet-metal workers and spray painters and varnishers, hairdressers, and accounting and bookkeeping clerks. Ambulance workers, on the other hand, will become a shortage group in 2021.
A balanced and stable situation on the labor market in 2021 may be observed, first and foremost, in the case of: postal workers (balance forecast in 363 of 380 districts), leisure and sports trainers (balance forecast in 360 districts with local surpluses forecast in 10 districts), veterinarians and insurance agents (in both cases balance is forecast in 359 districts).
The fact that a given occupational group remains a shortage group or remains balanced on the labor market at the national level does not mean that the same trend can be observed in all provinces. The situation in this respect varies from one region to another.
Hot jobs:
Which types of workers are lacking in Poland?
The industries with the greatest shortages in 2022 were construction and health care. You can view the complete list below, which includes the following occupations:
- Carpenters and construction carpenters, heavy equipment operators and mechanics, bricklayers and plasterers, concrete mixers and fixers, pavers, roofers and tinsmiths, construction installation fitters, construction workers, and construction workers.
- Healthcare professionals in the medical and care fields include doctors, nurses, healthcare assistants, paramedics, psychologists, and psychotherapists.
- industrial manufacturing: welders, locksmiths, machine tool operators, carpenters and woodworkers, electricians, electromechanics,
- bus drivers, truck and tractor-trailer drivers, warehousing employees, auto mechanics,
- Certified accountants, personnel in the accounting and bookkeeping fields,
- teaching in the field of vocational education
- Cooks and bakers in the food and catering industry.
Where are the available workers?
There are workers available in Poland in all of the different provinces and cities. Poland's main regions where you can find labor are as follows:
- Warsaw: As Poland's capital and largest city, Warsaw draws in a sizable workforce. Professionals from a variety of industries, including banking, IT, business services, and more, make up its broad labor market.
- Kraków: In southern Poland, Kraków is a significant cultural and economic hub. It attracts qualified people in industries like IT, research, banking, and tourism thanks to its universities and technology parks.
- Wroclaw: A vibrant city in western Poland, Wrocaw's economy is expanding. Jobs in industries including IT, manufacturing, engineering, shared services, and logistics are available.
- Lodz: Lodz is a city that is mostly recognized for its manufacturing and textile sectors. Its workforce is proficient in fields including production, engineering, and logistics.
- Pozna: A dynamic city in western Poland, Pozna draws workers from a range of industries, including IT, commercial services, manufacturing, and trade.
- The Tri-City region, which includes the cities of Gdask, Gdynia, and Sopot, is a center for marine trade, logistics, and tourism. It is situated on the Baltic Sea coast. It provides employment opportunities in the transportation, logistics, IT, travel, and service industries.
- Katowice: The Silesian region around Katowice has a robust industrial foundation, with a focus on mining, metallurgy, and heavy industries. This region employs people in engineering, manufacturing, and construction.
- Other Regions: In addition to the major cities, there are workers accessible in other Polish provinces and municipalities. These individuals could be knowledgeable in a variety of industries, such as services, forestry, tourism, and agriculture.
Short overview of the labor market:
Poland's labor market is distinguished by a wide variety of industries and a young workforce. Here is a quick synopsis of Poland's job market:
- Strong Economic Growth: Poland's economy has grown steadily in recent years, making it one of the continent's fastest-growing ones. An larger labor market and more work opportunities are a result of this growth.
- Polish workers are highly educated and skilled, with a strong focus on technical and vocational education. The nation generates a sizable number of graduates in engineering, information technology, finance, and other disciplines, creating a pool of competent workers for numerous businesses.
- Polish manufacturing, information technology, finance, business services, automotive, agriculture, and tourism are some of the country's most important industries. Both skilled and unskilled employees have job prospects in these industries.
- IT and technology enterprises, startups, and technology parks are numerous in Poland's booming IT industry. The nation is renowned for its highly qualified IT professionals, programmers, and software developers.
- Outsourcing and Shared Services: Outsourcing and Shared Service centers frequently located in Poland. Poland now has a large number of global corporations operating there, creating employment opportunities in fields including finance, accounting, customer service, and IT support.
- Infrastructure development and real estate projects are the main drivers of Poland's active construction industry. Engineers, project managers, and other skilled personnel are in high demand.
- Health Care and Social Services: As Poland's healthcare industry develop, jobs for doctors, nurses, caretakers, and other workers become available. The provision of social services like child care and senior care helps to support employment in this industry.
- Agriculture-related Seasonal Employment: Poland has a sizable agricultural industry, which offers seasonal employment opportunities in farming, fruit picking, and vegetable harvesting. During the busiest times of year, these jobs frequently draw foreign labor.
- Youth Mobility: To entice young professionals and recent graduates from abroad, Poland has implemented a number of initiatives and programs. These initiatives seek to give people in the nation access to employment, internships, and career development.
It's crucial to keep in mind that Poland's labor markets may vary by region, with big cities like Warsaw, Kraków, and Wrocaw having a wider variety of employment options. English proficiency in particular can be advantageous in many different fields.
Minimum Wage – Poland
Monthly Minimum Wage (PLN) | Hourly Minimum Wage (PLN) | |
---|---|---|
National Minimum Wage | 3,490.00 | 22.80 |
Please note that the amounts mentioned are before tax. The current minimum wage in Poland is PLN 3,490.00 per month, effective from January 1, 2023, until June 30, 2023. The hourly minimum wage is PLN 22.80.
It's important to comply with the minimum wage regulations in Poland to ensure fair compensation for workers. Employers who do not pay the minimum wage may face penalties from the Polish government.
Please keep in mind that this information is based on the details you provided and may be subject to change. For the most up-to-date and accurate information, it is advisable to refer to official sources or consult with local labor authorities in Poland.
Types of Poland Visas
Poland, being a member of the European Union and the Schengen Area, issues several types of visas to non-EU nationals, depending on the purpose and duration of stay. Here are the main categories:
- Schengen Visa (Type C): This visa allows its holder to stay in Poland and other Schengen Area countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This is typically used for purposes such as tourism, visiting family or friends, and short-term business trips.
- National Visa (Type D): For stays longer than 90 days, a national visa is needed. This visa allows you to stay in Poland for a specific period that exceeds 90 days up to a year, for various purposes, such as work, study, conducting scientific research, or joining a family member.
- Work Visa: Non-EU nationals wishing to work in Poland typically need a work permit, and in most cases, a Type D National visa that corresponds to the work permit. The employer usually initiates the process of obtaining the work permit on behalf of the foreign employee.
- Student Visa: Non-EU nationals who have been admitted to a course of study at an accredited Polish institution can apply for a student visa.
- Residence Permit: For long-term stays, a residence permit might be needed. This can be granted for various purposes, including for employment, conducting business activities, studying, family reunification, or for long-term EU residents.
- Transit Visa (Type A): This is for passing through the Schengen countries by airplane.
Each of these visas or permits comes with its own requirements and application processes, so it's crucial to verify the current regulations with the Polish embassy or consulate in your home country, or consult the relevant authorities in Poland.
Types of work permit in Poland
There are five types of work permits:
- Type A – if you are employed either on the basis of an employment contract or civil law, contract by an employer with an office registered in Poland. This is the most popular work permit.
- Type B – if you are performing a board member function and residing in Poland for a total period that exceeds 6 months within a period of 12 subsequent months.
- Type C – if you are delegated to Poland by a foreign employer for a period that exceeds 30 days in a calendar year to work for the foreign employer’s subsidiary or branch.
- Type D – if you are delegated by a foreign employer to work in export services in an occasional and temporary manner. It is important that the foreign employer does not have a branch or subsidiary of its own in Poland.
- Type E – if you are undertaking work-related tasks which do not fall into any of the four categories above. This is, as you presume, the rarest type of a work permit.
Requirements to acquire Poland work permits
In Poland, there are particular standards that must be met in order to obtain a work visa. Depending on the kind of work permit you're asking for and your particular situation, the requirements could change. The following criteria must be met in order to apply for a work visa in Poland:
- Work Offer: A legitimate work offer from a Polish business is required. You should receive a signed employment contract or letter of intent from the employer explaining the specifics of your employment.
- Application for a Work Permit: Your employer in Poland must submit an application for a work permit on your behalf to the appropriate regional office of the Voivodeship Office (Used Wojewodzki).
- Labor Market Test: Generally speaking, your employer must show that there is no qualified applicant from Poland or the European Union (EU) who is currently seeking employment. Before recruiting a non-EU worker, this may entail posting the job opening and making an effort to find local candidates.
- Qualifications and Experience: You can be asked to show documentation of your training, degrees, and relevant work experience that meet the employment position's requirements. Diplomas, certificates, and professional recommendations are examples of this.
- Health Insurance: For the duration of your visit to Poland, you must have current health insurance coverage. Your company should make arrangements for your health insurance.
- Work Permit Fee: The application for a work permit carries a cost. Depending on the type of work permit and the turnaround time, the prize amount may change.
- After receiving your work permit, you may need to submit an application for a separate residence permit at the relevant Voivodeship Office or the neighborhood Foreigners' Office. You are able to live in Poland lawfully while working there, thanks to the residence permit.
It's crucial to remember that depending on the type of work permit, the applicant's unique situation, and any changes to immigration laws, the particular requirements and procedures may change. To ensure accurate and current information based on your unique situation, it is advised to consult the relevant authorities or seek expert counsel.
Difference Between Poland Schengen Visa and Long-Term Visa
Sure, here is a comparison between the Poland Schengen Visa and Long-Term Visa (National Visa):
|
Poland Schengen Visa (Type C) |
Poland Long-Term Visa (Type D) |
Duration |
Up to 90 days within a 180-day period |
More than 90 days, up to a year |
Purpose |
Tourism, business, visiting family or friends |
Work, study, conducting scientific research, family reunification |
Travel within Schengen |
Yes, within the 90/180 rule |
Yes, within the validity of the visa |
Access to work |
Limited (certain conditions may apply) |
Yes, if it's a work visa |
Renewable |
Yes, but total stay must not exceed 90 days in any 180-day period |
Yes, can be converted into a residence permit |
Applicable Area |
All countries in the Schengen Area |
Primarily in Poland, travel to other Schengen countries permitted |
Application Process |
Usually through Polish embassy or consulate in home country |
Usually through Polish embassy or consulate in home country, but certain steps may be completed in Poland |
Remember to always check the latest information from official sources or legal experts, as visa rules can change and may vary depending on the specifics of your situation.
Steps to apply for a Poland work permit:
You must complete a number of procedures in order to apply for a work permit in Poland. Here is a general description of what happens:
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Job Offer: Obtain a job offer from a Polish employer. The employer should provide you with a written employment contract or a letter of intent specifying the terms and conditions of your employment.
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Check Eligibility: Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for the specific work permit category you are applying for. Different work permits have different requirements and conditions.
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Labor Market Test: The employer must demonstrate that there is no suitable candidate from Poland or the European Union (EU) available for the job position. This typically involves advertising the vacancy and documenting the recruitment efforts.
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Gather Required Documents: Collect all the necessary documents for the work permit application. These may include:
- Valid passport or travel document.
- Completed work permit application form (available from the regional office in the Voivodeship Office).
- Employment contract or letter of intent from the employer.
- Proof of educational qualifications, such as diplomas or certificates.
- Health insurance coverage for the duration of your stay in Poland.
- Any additional documents specific to your work permit category, such as a labor market test certificate.
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Submit the Application: The employer should submit the work permit application to the appropriate regional office of the Voivodeship Office (Urzad Wojewodzki) or the local branch of the Polish Immigration Office (Urzad does Spraw Cudzoziemcow).
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Pay Application Fees: Pay the required application fees for the work permit. The fee amount may vary depending on the type of work permit and processing time. Keep the payment receipt as proof of payment.
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Await Processing: The regional office will review your application and supporting documents. The processing time may vary, but it typically takes several weeks. During this time, the authorities may request additional documents or information if needed.
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Receive Decision: Once the processing is complete, you will receive a decision on your work permit application. If approved, you will be issued a work permit.
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Application for Residence Permit: Depending on the duration of your employment, you may need to apply for a separate residence permit at the appropriate Voivodeship Office or the local Foreigners' Office. The residence permit allows you to legally reside in Poland during your employment.
It's crucial to remember that depending on the type of work permit, the applicant's unique situation, and any changes to immigration laws, the particular requirements and procedures may change. To ensure accurate and current information based on your unique situation, it is advised to consult the relevant authorities or seek expert counsel.
Benefits of a work permit
In Poland, obtaining a work permit has many advantages. The following are some benefits of getting a work permit in Poland:
- Legal Employment: Having a work permit entitles you to employment that complies with all applicable labor laws and regulations in Poland. You will receive the essential permission to work and receive compensation on the Polish labor market.
- Opportunities for work: Poland provides a variety of work options in a number of different sectors, including healthcare, manufacturing, information technology (IT), services, and finance. Your alternatives will be more varied, and you'll have a better chance of getting hired in the nation if you have a work permit.
- Residence and Stability: Getting a work visa usually gives you the freedom to live in Poland while you're employed there. It offers stability and enables you to settle down in the nation, have access to social benefits, and take advantage of the benefits of being in a European Union member state.
- Free Movement Within the Schengen Area: You are entitled to unrestricted movement throughout the Schengen region if you have a work permit in Poland. This creates opportunities for travel, adventure, and encountering various cultures by enabling you to visit other Schengen nations without the need for additional visas or permits.
- Social Security Benefits: If you have a work permit and are employed, you may be eligible for social security benefits, such as retirement income and coverage for health care. This ensures your safety and serves as a safety net while you work in Poland.
- Professional Growth and Skill Enhancement Possibilities: Working in Poland may present chances for professional development and skill improvement. Gaining work experience in Poland can improve your abilities, knowledge, and career chances as the nation boasts a vibrant economic climate.
- Polish culture is rich and active, and it offers a diverse cultural experience. Working in Poland gives you the chance to get to know the people, experience local culture firsthand, visit historical places, sample local food, and take part in festivals and events.
- Competitive Salaries and Benefits: Poland is a desirable location for work because it offers competitive salaries and benefits across a wide range of industries. Compared to other Western European nations, Poland's cost of living is often cheaper, so you may live comfortably and possibly save money.
It's vital to keep in mind that the particular entitlements and benefits may change based on the type of work permit, unique situations, and any adjustments to labor and immigration laws. To ensure accurate and current information based on your unique situation, it is advised to consult the relevant authorities or seek expert counsel.
As well as the work permit which gives permission for employment, TCNs also require a National D Visa to enter and stay in Poland legally. This can be applied for in the home country from a local Polish Embassy or Consulate or their official representative. A Residence Permit can be applied for when arriving in Poland.
Living Costs in Poland
Living costs in Poland can vary depending on the city and individual lifestyle choices. Here is a general overview of some common expenses in Poland:
Expense | Cost Range (Monthly) |
---|---|
Rent (1-bedroom apartment in city center) | 2,000-3,500 PLN |
Rent (1-bedroom apartment outside city center) | 1,500-2,800 PLN |
Utilities (electricity, heating, water) | 250-600 PLN |
Internet | 60-100 PLN |
Groceries | 600 - 1,200 PLN |
Dining out | 20-60 PLN per meal |
Public Transportation | 90-150 PLN |
Gym Membership | 100-200 PLN |
Mobile Phone Plan | 40-80 PLN |
Health Insurance | 150-300 PLN |
Entertainment and Leisure | Varies depending on personal choices |
Please note that these figures are estimates and can vary based on location and individual preferences. It's always a good idea to research specific costs in your desired city in Poland for a more accurate understanding of living expenses.
Work permits are issued on the basis of:
- A specific employer
- A particular job position
- A designated period of employment
So be careful, you may need to apply for a new work permit if there is a change of employer and if all documents are rendered invalid by the move.
Being illegal in Poland can bring fines and sanctions for both employee and employer. Reasons include:
- Not having the relevant visa or residence card to live in Poland even though employees may have a work permit
- Performing work that is not specified in the work permit or not having a work permit
- Being employed with documentation which does not cover paid employment
Fines up to PLN 5,000 (€1,103, US$1,264) for individuals and expulsion from Poland and the Schengen area for three years can apply. Employers must cover all costs relating to the expulsion of employees PLUS fines which can be excessive if the employee was asked to work illegally.
TCNs seeking employment – from outside of Poland
- A job offer is required with initial contract detailing working conditions, salary, start date etc. However, the position should have been offered first to Polish/EU/EEA nationals (Labor Market Test) through the local labor office or the European Job Bank (EURES). This needs to have been verified before the employer can apply for the work permit for a TCN. Exceptions apply if their occupation is on a skill shortage list
- The employer applies and pays for the work permit. This is the legal permission to work in Poland. It is typically the standard Type A permit or Type C/E for intercompany transfers
- A National D Visa is also legally required by employees to enter and live in Poland. This D Visa can be applied for when the ‘Voivodship’ (state or province) to which the employer has issued an employment application, sends an invitation to the employee
- The employer must ensure that the Visa or Residence Permit is legally correct and keeps a copy
- The contract needs to be concluded before the employee starts work. Failure results in a fine of PLN 3,000 (€662, US$758). Type of contract determines if employees are covered by the Labor Code. Employment contracts are covered, but civil contracts are not, e.g., task contract, agency contract or contract of mandate (for a determined period) are covered by the Civil Code
- Employees are legally entitled to a copy of the contract in a language which they are familiar with and is provided by the employer
- Within four days of entering Poland, the employee must register at the ‘Voivodship’ where he lives and works
- Within seven days of the contract being signed, the employer must register the employee with the social security and health insurance authorities, so the employees are covered for health care as well as benefits and entitlements
- After entering Poland, a residence permit can be applied for during the legal stay (i.e., documents are still valid) at the ‘Voivodship’
For foreign employees already in Poland
These employees can apply for a combined Temporary Residence and Work Permit or an EU Blue Card, also known as a “Temporary Residence Permit for the purpose of highly qualified employment”. This permit allows foreign nationals to live and work in Poland. Certain conditions and documents are required when applying.
Poland Visa Application Steps
Step by step guide to applying for a visa to Poland, and interview questions
To start the Poland visa application process, you have to contact the nearest Polish embassy and Poland VFS and set up a visa appointment online.
How to Apply for a Poland Visa?
The steps to follow in order to apply for a Poland visa are:
- Find the nearest Polish consulate or embassy.
- Set up a visa appointment. You also have to complete an application form through the e-Konsulat website.
- Collect the required documents. You can find the required documents listed below.
- Submit the application in person at the Polish embassy or consulate.
- Attend the visa interview. The interview is required to find out more about you and the reason for your visit.
- Wait for the decision. The processing time for a visa application usually takes around 14 days.
Step 1. Find the Nearest Polish Embassy or Consulate
Depending on where you live, you can apply for a Poland visa for one of the following:
- The Polish embassy or consulate in your country.
- The Polish embassy or consulate in a neighboring country.
- The embassy or consulate of another Schengen country, to which Poland has outsourced visa submissions.
- A private visa application center or agency that the Polish embassy has outsourced visa submission services.
Regardless of where you have to apply, your first point of reference should be a Polish embassy or consulate. You can find Poland’s missions abroad here. Or Book VFS Center here.
Step 2. Set Up a Visa Appointment
It is essential to set up a visa appointment at the embassy. You must apply for the Poland visa appointment at least two weeks before your planned visit to Poland. You can schedule a visa appointment, complete the Poland visa application form and pay the fee at the e-Konsulat (Poland’s consular website). You have to download the application form and attach it to the rest of the documents.
Please note that after you schedule your appointment and pay the fee online, you still have to submit your documents to the Polish embassy/consulate in person. Find the Polish e-Konsulat website here.
Step 3. Collect the Required Documents
The required documents for a Poland visa application are:
- The Poland visa application form. Complete the application form entirely and sign it at the end.
- Two passport-sized photos of yourself. The pictures must follow the Poland visa photo guidelines (35x40mm dimensions and a white background).
- Your passport. It must be valid for at least three months after the return date.
- Schengen travel health insurance. The policy must be valid in Poland and the entire Schengen zone, and cover at least €30,000.
- Cover letter. Write a letter detailing the purpose of your visit and itinerary.
- Proof of accommodation. You should have a hotel booked or a letter from a friend/family member who will host you in Poland.
- Proof of sufficient funds to provide for your stay in Poland. The required daily amount you need to cover is around €16.
- Proof of your relationship status. E.g. Marriage certificate.
- Proof of your flight date and time. You do not need to necessarily purchase a ticket, especially since you do not know if your application will be accepted. Some embassies, however, may ask for a purchased return ticket.
- Paid visa fee receipt. If the embassy asked you to pay the fee beforehand, you must submit the paid fee receipt.
Step 4. Personally Submit the Visa Application
On the date of your appointment, submit the visa application and all the required documents to your nearest Polish embassy or consulate. Make sure you do not forget any of the requirements, as your application may be denied immediately.
Step 5. Enter a Visa Interview
The interview section of a Schengen visa application is often required. The interview process is a possibility for the interviewers to know the reasons for your visit and other personal information. You must answer the questions truthfully.
Step 6. Wait for the Poland Visa Process
The standard processing time for a Poland visa application is between 10 and 14 days. This timeframe may be extended for 45-60 days in some occurrences.
The processing time begins the moment the embassy or consulate receives your visa application and documents. If you are asked to submit additional documents, the time could be extended.
Common Work Visa Interview questions in the Poland Embassy
During a work visa interview at the Poland Embassy, the consular officer may ask a range of questions to assess your eligibility and intentions for working in Poland. While specific questions may vary, here are some common work visa interview questions you may encounter:
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What is the purpose of your visit to Poland? The officer wants to understand why you are applying for a work visa and the specific purpose of your visit, such as employment, business, or professional activities.
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Can you provide details about your prospective employer in Poland? The officer may ask for information about your employer, including the company name, address, nature of business, and your position or role within the company.
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What qualifications and experience do you have for the job in Poland? The officer wants to determine if you possess the necessary skills, education, and experience required for the job and if you meet the criteria set by the employer.
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Can you provide documentation supporting your employment in Poland? You may be asked to provide documents such as an employment contract, job offer letter, or letter of sponsorship from the employer.
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What are your responsibilities and duties in the proposed job? The officer may ask for a detailed description of the tasks, responsibilities, and duties you will be performing in your prospective job in Poland.
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What is your educational background? You may be asked to provide information about your educational qualifications, such as degrees, diplomas, or certifications relevant to the job.
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How long do you plan to stay in Poland? The officer wants to understand the duration of your intended stay and whether it aligns with the duration of your work visa.
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Do you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in Poland? You may be asked to provide evidence of your financial means, such as bank statements or proof of income, to ensure you can support yourself during your employment in Poland.
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Have you ever worked or lived in Poland or any other Schengen country before? The officer may inquire about your previous employment history in Poland or other Schengen countries, as well as any previous visa or immigration experiences.
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Do you have any family members accompanying you to Poland? You may be asked if any family members will be joining you in Poland and if they have the necessary visas or permits.
It's important to answer these questions truthfully, provide any requested documentation, and demonstrate your genuine intentions for working in Poland. Being well-prepared, organized, and confident during the interview will greatly enhance your chances of a successful work visa application.
How to Pay The Poland Visa Fee?
You can register and pay the Poland visa fee online via the e-Konsulat. This fee is calculated based on your age and your choice of visa type. This fee must be paid when you go and submit your application. The fees of different types of Poland visas and ages are as follows:
- Standard Poland Schengen visa fee: €80.
- Poland visa fee for children between 6-12 years old: €45.
- Children under the age of 6 are exempt from the visa fee.
Please note that you will have to pay additional fees if you require additional consular services. If you apply through a visa application agency (such as VFS), you also have to pay an additional service fee.
Entering Poland After Receiving a Visa
After receiving the Poland Schengen visa, you must enter Poland before your visa’s expiry date. Because of the continuing spread of the Covid-19 pandemic, from 2020, you will be asked to provide additional documents when entering Poland after receiving your visa. You should fill out the Passenger Locator Form. This form is necessary so you can be contacted in case there was an infected passenger on the plane, and you will get the needed help.
What Can I Do If My Application Is Rejected?
If your visa application is rejected/denied, you can appeal. Your Poland visa may be rejected even if you have correctly done all of the application steps. Common reasons for visa rejection include:
- Insufficient documentation.
- The embassy believes that you cannot afford your trip.
- The embassy believes that you are at risk of illegally overstaying in Poland.
You can submit the appeal within eight weeks after your rejected visa application. For more information on how to appeal, make sure to check your rejection form, as it will have instructions on how to continue with the appeal process.
Please be aware of the appeal process fee and that you are required to pay for it. The appeal fee is around €80.
About AtoZ Serwis Plus
AtoZ Serwis Plus is a reputable and well-known B2C immigration agency that has been providing specialized immigration services since 2009. With company registration offices in Poland, Portugal, Malta, Germany, and Romania, as well as partner offices in various countries worldwide, they offer individualized immigration services to clients globally.
Supported by Polish attorneys and with company registration numbers region: 382604058, NIP: 5252780856, KRS: 0000770916, AtoZ Serwis Plus Sp. z o.o. Is a Polish Overseas Career Consultant, and is considered one of the largest B2C immigration firms in Europe. They work closely with regulated and licensed immigration lawyers in their offices in Poland and Portugal.
AtoZ Serwis Plus has extensive experience in managing international recruitment projects and specializes in providing staffing services. They assist individuals from countries such as Ukraine, Belarus, Moldova, Russia, Georgia, Armenia, Bangladesh, Nepal, India, and others in finding employment opportunities in Serbia, Croatia, Romania, Poland, Malta, Portugal, Germany, and other European countries.
Their services cater to individuals seeking professional growth, as well as those looking to relocate permanently to Europe. AtoZ Serwis Plus charges reasonable fees for their services and offers flexible payment options.
Overall, AtoZ Serwis Plus aims to provide high-value immigration services, leveraging their expertise, international network, and partnerships to assist clients in achieving their career goals abroad.
How can AtoZ Serwis Plus assist you?
AtoZ Serwis Plus will provide the services listed below to get a Poland work visa:
- Counseling: Get AtoZ Serwis Plus’ free counseling services.
- Job services: Avail of AtoZ Serwis Plus’ job search services to find jobs in Poland
- Reviewing requirements: AtoZ Serwis Plus reviews all your requirements for a Poland visa
- Application process: We also help in completing your application process
- Requirements checklist: AtoZ Serwis Plus also helps you in arranging the requirements for a Poland work visa
- Complete visa application support
- Assistance with collecting supporting documentation
- Visa Interview Preparation – if required
- Updates & Follow-up with the Consulate
Willing to work in Poland? Talk to AtoZ Serwis Plus, the Europe’s no.1overseas immigration consultant.