Granted for a period up to 3 years, a residence permit is virtually a necessity for foreigners to comfortably live, work, and study within Poland. A temporary stay brings with it a range of benefits, and aside from the necessary beaurocracy, there is very little reason not to apply for a stay permit.
Why Choose Poland
Poland has been gaining attention as an attractive place to live on the basis of its overall economic and social stability in the face of increasingly tumultuous times. Poland has been somewhat of a phenomenon in the last decade, boasting a stable GDP that managed to increase even in the face of the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and the general worldwide economic slowdown. According to recent data, the Polish economy ranks as the 6th largest within the European Union.
Another key reason to consider temporary residence in Poland is its rapidly developing tech sector, known for quickly implementing favorable innovations, leading to breakthroughs in various fields, as well as being technologically on par with its western counterparts. In recent years, Polish tech companies have increased investment in various ecological and technological startups, creating vast areas for professional growth for nationals and foreigners alike.
Naturally, people choose residency in the Republic of Poland due to personal reasons as well. With progressing globalization, more and more people travel and migrate every day, eventually finding soulmates from Poland and deciding to move to the rapidly developing republic.
Who Can Apply for Temporary Residence
Residency Permits for Employees
One of the most common reasons for seeking out a temporary residency permit is employment. Whether seeking a long-term contract or seasonal work, foreigners will be required to apply for residency. While this process is usually handled by the foreign employer, there might be cases where an individual has to take matters into his own hands when aiming for a lucrative career opportunity within many of Poland’s new startups.
Temporary Residence for Full-Time Students
Poland boasts an education system on par with that found both within and outside of the European Union. In well over a decade, it has been attracting increasing numbers of foreign students who gravitate to this country for its robust academic offer, lower costs of living, and bustling city life. Many seek to take advantage of the growing economy, hoping to extend their temporary stay and find work in Poland once they acquire their degree.
International Internship Programs
The European Voluntary Service program was established to promote youth mobility and engagement within the European Union and outside its borders. It is a part of the Erasmus+ program. The EVS provides young people with ample opportunities to volunteer in member countries and, as of 2018, also offers internships and job placements.
Looking to Stay With a Polish Spouse or Family Members
Finally, filing for residency is a necessity for people who wish to join their families in Poland. Said permit is a crucial necessity for gaining citizenship, but it also makes the transition period much easier, as it unlocks virtually all the necessary boons that full citizenship entails.
Benefits of a Temporary Residence Permit
The permit offers foreigners a slew of benefits, so much so that even citizens of European member states who don’t require said permit to live within Polish borders should consider acquiring it if planning a prolonged stay.
The Temporary Residence Permit is required and offers access to education and work. The permit is also a necessity to access the full range of banking and financial services, making it indispensible for running a business within Polish borders.
Another benefit of temporary residency for people from outside the European Union is the permission to travel freely within the Schengen Area for the duration of their residency.
Furthermore, residents can enjoy access to Poland’s healthcare system and, in specified cases, to the country’s social benefits, provided that they meet their individual requirements.
Lastly, temporary residency permits are an absolute necessity on the path towards full citizenship.
How to Apply for a Residence Permit
The process preceding filing the application for temporary stay can be a long and tedious one. Depending on the justification and reason behind the application, applicants must prepare a long list of documents, which typically include:
- A completed form;
- travel documents and ID;
- job agreement, university enrollment papers, or proof of having family members in Poland;
- proof of having a place to stay;
- health insurance documents;
- evidence of funds or funding that will enable your stay.
Some of the bureaucracy behind the entire process can prove daunting and, in many cases, require contact with the Polish Office for Foreigners, additional forms to be filled out, and documents to be presented. an experienced firm proving step-by-step assistance, legal support, and most importantly, multi-lingual support, making dealing with Polish beaurocracy that much simpler and more efficient.