Job Seeker Visa (Type D) – Poland
A job seeker visa allows you to enter Poland to search for employment opportunities. This visa is for qualified professionals who want to find work in Poland before applying for a work visa.
Table of Contents
What is a Job Seeker Visa for Poland?
A job seeker visa allows qualified professionals to enter Poland to search for employment opportunities. This visa is designed for individuals who want to find work in Poland before applying for a regular work visa, making the job search process more efficient and effective.
The job seeker visa is typically valid for up to 6 months and allows you to attend job interviews, meet with recruitment agencies, participate in networking events, and explore business opportunities. Once you find employment, you can convert this visa to a work visa.
This visa is particularly useful for skilled professionals in high-demand sectors who want to secure employment before committing to a move to Poland. It provides flexibility and time to find the right job opportunity.
Poland job seeker visa application guide
Job Search Activities
Schengen Countries & Employment Opportunities
The Schengen area consists of 29 European countries. These include the EU member states except Ireland and Cyprus and the non-EU countries Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Iceland. Citizens of these states and foreign nationals with a valid residence permit for one of these countries enjoy freedom of travel within the Schengen area — border controls only occur at external borders.
The issuance of visas for the Schengen countries is regulated uniformly – depending on the purpose of the trip and the length of the stay, the following visa categories may apply:
Permitted Job Search Activities
A Poland job seeker visa allows you to engage in the following activities:
Important Note
Job seeker visas do not allow you to work or receive payment during your job search. You can only search for employment and attend interviews. For official information, visit the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
Job Seeker Visa Types
Job Seeker Visa
Allows job search and interview attendance
Conversion to Work Visa
Convert to work visa upon finding employment
Requirements and Documents
Required Documents
Important Requirements
Educational Qualifications
University degree or equivalent professional qualifications relevant to Polish job market.
Financial Means
Sufficient funds to support yourself during job search period (minimum €500 per month).
Professional Experience
Relevant work experience demonstrating skills valuable to Polish employers.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a job seeker visa, you must meet specific eligibility criteria that demonstrate your potential value to the Polish job market:
You Must Meet
- University degree or equivalent qualification
- Relevant professional experience (minimum 3 years)
- Financial means to support yourself during job search
- Clear criminal record from home country
- Health insurance covering stay in Poland
- Genuine intention to seek employment
- Language skills (Polish or English preferred)
Application Process
Job seeker visa applications must be submitted at the Polish embassy, consulate, or visa application center in your country of residence. A personal appointment is required for document submission and biometric data collection.
Processing time typically takes 15-30 days for standard applications. We recommend applying at least 45 days before your planned travel date to allow sufficient time for processing and preparation.
The Polish missions accept visa applications up to 6 months before the planned trip. The visa fee is €80 for adults. Children between 6-12 years pay €40, and children under 6 years are exempt from fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work while on a job seeker visa?▼
No, job seeker visas do not allow you to work or receive payment. You can only search for employment, attend interviews, and participate in networking activities.
How long is a job seeker visa valid?▼
Job seeker visas are typically valid for up to 6 months, giving you sufficient time to find employment opportunities and attend interviews.
Can I convert my job seeker visa to a work visa?▼
Yes, once you find employment, you can apply to convert your job seeker visa to a work visa. Your employer will need to obtain a work permit, and you'll need to meet work visa requirements.
Do I need a university degree for a job seeker visa?▼
Generally yes, you need a university degree or equivalent professional qualifications. Some exceptions may apply for highly skilled professionals with extensive experience in specialized fields.
How much money do I need to support myself during job search?▼
You typically need to demonstrate financial means of at least €500 per month for the duration of your stay, covering accommodation, food, and other living expenses.
Ready to Find Your Dream Job in Poland?
Start your job seeker visa application early and prepare your professional documents. Contact the Polish consulate in your country for specific requirements.