Immigration
EU free movement alongside a large national work-permit system
EU and EEA citizens enjoy free movement. Third-country nationals need a visa or residence permit under the 2013 Act on Foreigners, and Poland issues one of the largest volumes of first residence permits in the EU, with a simplified declaration route for several neighbouring states.
Key rules
- Temporary residence permits are usually granted for up to three years and tied to a purpose.
- Permanent residence generally requires five years of uninterrupted residence.
- Work normally requires a work permit or an employer declaration entered in the register.
- Ukrainian nationals have a separate statutory status following the 2022 special Act.
Governing law
- Act on Foreigners (2013)Ustawa o cudzoziemcach.
- Act on the entry and residence of EU citizens (2006)Implements the Free Movement Directive.
- Act on assistance to Ukrainian citizens (2022)Special protection regime.
In practice
Applications are made to the voivodeship office of your place of residence; lodging in time stamps your passport and legalises stay while the case is pending, even if processing takes many months.