For non-EU nationals aiming to work in Poland, Work Permits Types C and D offer pathways to legal employment, whether for short-term seasonal jobs or long-term roles. The application process involves coordination between the employer and employee, starting with securing a job offer and culminating in a national visa application. 

Overview of Work Permit Types

• Type C Permit: Generally issued for short-term or seasonal employment in Poland.

• Type D Permit: Designed for long-term employment or extended work contracts.

Regardless of the type, the application process begins with the employer submitting a work permit request to the appropriate Voivodeship Office (regional administrative authority).

Steps for the Employer

1. Offer a Job to a Foreign National
The process begins with the employer identifying a qualified non-EU candidate and offering them a job.

2. Submit a Work Permit Application
The employer submits a complete work permit application at the relevant Voivodeship Office, which includes all required documentation.

3. Voivodeship Office Review
The application may undergo a labour market test, where authorities verify whether a local candidate is available for the position. This step helps prioritize Polish and EU workers but can be bypassed for certain professions or urgent roles.

4. Approval and Permit Issuance
Once approved, the Voivodeship Office issues the work permit to the employer, who then informs the employee.

Steps for the Employee

1. Receive Notification of Work Permit
After the permit is approved, the employer notifies the employee, who can then proceed with the visa application.

2. Apply for a National Visa (Type D)
The employee applies for a Type D national visa at the nearest Polish embassy or consulate, using the approved work permit as a core supporting document.

3. Submit Visa Application and Attend Interview
The employee submits the required paperwork—including the visa application form, passport, photos, and other documents—and may need to attend a personal interview.

4. Visa Approval and Travel to Poland
If the application is approved, the visa is issued, and the employee can legally travel to Poland for work.

Required Documents

For the Employer:

• Completed work permit application form

• Proof of application fee payment

• Company registration documents (deed of incorporation)

• Recent profit and loss statement

• Draft or signed employment contract

• Evidence of legal business operation

• Any additional documents required by the specific Voivodeship Office

For the Employee:

• Valid passport

• Completed visa application form

• Recent passport-sized photographs

• Flight itinerary or travel reservation

• Proof of health insurance

• Proof of accommodation in Poland

• Copy of the approved work permit

Important Notes

• Permit Type Matters:

  • Type C is best suited for short-term or seasonal work.

  • Type D supports long-term employment contracts.

• Post-Arrival Requirements:
  Upon arrival in Poland, the employee must register their address and apply for a residency card (Karta Pobytu) to legalize their stay for the duration of their employment.

• Processing Time:
  Both the work permit and visa processes can take several weeks. Early preparation and submission are essential to avoid delays.

Applying for a Poland Work Permit Type C or D involves multiple steps and collaboration between the employer and the foreign employee. By understanding the process and preparing the necessary documents in advance, non-EU workers can make a smooth transition into the Polish workforce.