How to Obtain a Residence Card in Poland in 2025?
A Residence Card (Karta Pobytu) is a document that allows foreign citizens to legally stay and work in Poland for an extended period. In 2025, the process of obtaining it remains complex, but it is entirely achievable if all requirements are met. Let’s review the key aspects and steps involved in obtaining a Residence Card.
Types of Residence Cards
- Temporary Residence Card (Karta Pobytu Czasowego) – issued for up to 3 years.
- Permanent Residence Card (Karta Pobytu Stałego) – indefinite, but requires renewal every 10 years.
- Long-Term EU Resident Card – grants the right to work and live in Poland without additional permits.
- Blue Card (Niebieska Karta UE) – designed for highly qualified specialists with at least 5 years of experience and a salary of at least 150% of the national average or graduates of higher education institutions. Changing jobs requires notifying the Voivode.
Grounds for Obtaining a Residence Card
- Official employment in Poland.
- Enrollment in a Polish higher education institution.
- Running a business.
- Marriage with a Polish citizen.
- Family reunification.
- Refugee status or humanitarian reasons.
Application Process
1. Gathering Required Documents:
2. Submitting the Application:
1. Gathering Required Documents:
- Completed application form.
- Valid passport.
- Documented proof of the basis for staying (employment contract, university certificate, etc.).
- Proof of financial stability.
- Proof of residence (rental agreement, registration certificate).
- Payment of administrative fees (from 340 to 640 PLN depending on the type of card).
- B1 Polish language certificate (required for a Permanent Residence Card or EU Resident Card).
2. Submitting the Application:
- At the relevant Voivodeship Office (Urząd Wojewódzki).
- In person or through a representative (with a notarized power of attorney).
- Documents must be submitted before the expiration of the current visa or residence permit.
- A mandatory procedure conducted at the Voivodeship Office during document submission.
- Processing time varies from several months to a year, depending on the office's workload.
- After approval, a fee of 50-100 PLN is required for card issuance.
- The card must be collected in person at the Voivodeship Office.
Cost of Obtaining a Residence Card
- Temporary Residence Permit (Karta Pobytu Czasowego) – 440 PLN.
- Permanent Residence Permit (Karta Pobytu Stałego) – 640 PLN.
- EU Resident Card – 640 PLN.
- EU Blue Card – 440 PLN.
Useful Tips
- Apply in advance to avoid issues with legal stay.
- Carefully check the application form and accuracy of all documents.
- Keep copies of submitted documents.
- Track application status through online portals or directly at the office.
- B1 Polish language certification can be obtained through the Uczeba.pl project – a postgraduate education program at the University of Warsaw. This option allows you to receive the necessary certification without taking the state exam.
The process of obtaining a Residence Card requires attention to detail, patience, and thorough preparation. If difficulties arise, consider seeking assistance from lawyers or specialized agencies. The key to success is preparing all necessary documents in advance and following the established procedures.
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