Right of Residence

To study in Poland, you must legalize your stay. EU citizens planning to stay over 3 months must register their residence. Non-EU citizens need to obtain a Polish visa from their local consulate before arriving.

Temporary Residence Permit: This is available for full-time students (bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral) and those in language preparatory courses. Part-time students and those in vocational training can also apply, but their permits do not allow legal work without a work permit.

Full-time students holding a Residence Card can work legally in Poland without needing a separate work permit. If you have questions, our Think Poland team is here to help!

Application Process:

• EU citizens must register their stay at the local Voivodeship Office. Apply for a Temporary Residence Permit at least one month before your visa expires; processing can take time.
• Non-EU students must apply for a Residence Card after entering Poland with a valid visa. If your country is not exempt from visa requirements, we can assist you in obtaining one.

Stay Duration: Temporary Residence Permits can be granted for up to 3 years, with renewals usually required every 15 months. Contact us for assistance with your Residence Card application!

What documents do I have to submit?

Documents needed for the application for a Residence Permit:

• 1 original and 1 copy of the completed application for a Temporary Residence Permit;
• 4 current colour photographs 4.5 cm x 3.5 cm, of the same type like for passport;
• a photocopy of a valid travel document and an original for inspection;
• confirmation of payment of the stamp duty. 

If the basis for applying for the Residence Card is to take up or continue education in Poland, the following documents should be additionally submitted:

• a rental contract for an apartment or room in which you are staying or intend to be staying or a confirmation from an university dormitory;
• a document confirming that they have sufficient financial means to cover their current costs of living and their return to their country of origin;
• a document confirming having a valid health insurance or a confirmation that the insurer covers the costs of medical treatment in the territory of the Republic of Poland;
• a certificate from the school or university confirming enrolment or continuation of studies and proof of payment of fees, if these are required.

If you are taking part in training or work placements as part of EU programmes, you should also provide:

• a certificate attesting to the participation in a training or work placement.

If you are in Poland because you are conducting scientific research here, you must provide:

• an agreement on admission for the purpose of carrying out a research project concluded with a research institution based in the territory of the Republic of Poland and a written statement from this institution declaring the costs of stay coverage,
• an agreement on the adoption of a research project implementation concluded with a scientific institution established in the territory other than the Republic of Poland an EU Member State and a written commitment of this institution to cover the costs of residence and expulsion of a foreigner.

With our expert help, securing your Residence Card and settling into life in Poland has never been easier! 

Contact us today or create an account to get started!