Work Visa (Type D) – Poland
A work visa allows you to live and work legally in Poland. This long-term visa is for foreign nationals who have secured employment with a Polish employer or want to start a business in Poland.
Table of Contents
What is a Work Visa for Poland?
A work visa (Type D national visa) allows you to live and work legally in Poland for an extended period. This visa is for foreign nationals who have secured employment with a Polish employer, want to start a business, or qualify for specialized work programs.
Work visas are typically issued for the duration of your employment contract and can lead to temporary residence permits and eventually permanent residence. The visa allows you to work only for the employer specified in your application.
Poland offers various work visa categories including seasonal work, highly skilled professional visas (EU Blue Card), and self-employment visas for entrepreneurs and business owners.
Poland work visa application guide
Types of Work Visas
Schengen Countries & Work Rights
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:
Work Visa Categories
Poland offers several work visa categories depending on your employment situation:
Important Note
Most work visas require a work permit or work permit exemption certificate before applying. Your employer must usually obtain this first. For official information, visit the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
Work Visa Categories
Type D Work Visa
Long-term visa for employment over 90 days
EU Blue Card
For highly qualified professionals
Requirements and Documents
Required Documents
Important Requirements
Work Permit
Most foreign workers need a work permit issued by Polish authorities before applying for a visa.
Employment Contract
Valid employment contract meeting Polish labor law requirements.
Professional Qualifications
Proof of education, skills, or professional certifications relevant to the job.
Employer Requirements
Polish employers hiring foreign workers must meet specific requirements and complete several steps before the employee can apply for a work visa:
Employer Must Provide
- Valid business registration in Poland
- Work permit application (if required)
- Detailed job description and requirements
- Proof of attempts to hire Polish/EU workers
- Company financial statements
- Employment contract meeting Polish labor law
- Declaration of accommodation assistance
Application Process
Work 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 30-60 days, but can be longer during peak periods or if additional documentation is required. We recommend applying at least 90 days before your planned employment start date.
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
Do I need a work permit before applying for a work visa?▼
Yes, most foreign workers need a work permit issued by Polish labor authorities before applying for a work visa. Your employer typically applies for this permit on your behalf.
Can I change employers with a work visa?▼
Work visas are typically tied to a specific employer. To change employers, you usually need a new work permit and may need to apply for a new visa or residence permit.
What is an EU Blue Card?▼
The EU Blue Card is for highly qualified professionals with university degrees or extensive professional experience. It offers faster processing, longer validity, and easier path to permanent residence.
Can my family join me with a work visa?▼
Yes, your spouse and minor children can apply for family reunion visas to join you in Poland. They will have the same residence rights as you during your employment.
How long does it take to get permanent residence?▼
You can apply for permanent residence after 5 years of continuous legal residence in Poland. EU Blue Card holders may qualify after just 2 years under certain conditions.
Ready to Work in Poland?
Start your work visa application process early and ensure your employer has obtained the necessary work permit. Contact the Polish consulate in your country for specific requirements.