Poland offers seasonal employment opportunities for foreign workers, especially in sectors like agriculture, tourism, and fishing. If you’re a non-EU national interested in temporary work in Poland, obtaining a seasonal work permit is a vital step. This guide outlines the process, from securing a job offer to submitting your visa application.

1. Employer’s Responsibility: Initiating the Work Permit

The seasonal work permit process in Poland begins with the employer. A Polish employer must apply for a seasonal work permit on your behalf through the local Voivodeship office (provincial government).

Required documents from the employer include:

• A completed application form

• Proof of the company’s legal status and registration

• Evidence of ongoing economic activity

• A copy of the employment contract

Once approved, the permit allows the foreign worker to legally take up seasonal employment in Poland, usually for a duration not exceeding nine months in a calendar year.

2. Worker’s Role: Visa and Residence Procedures

After your employer obtains the seasonal work permit, you—the foreign worker—must complete the remaining steps:

a. Obtain the Seasonal Work Permit

Ensure that your Polish employer has sent you the original or certified copy of the approved seasonal work permit. This will be part of your visa application.

b. Apply for a Temporary Residence Permit

If your work duration requires you to stay in Poland for an extended period, you may also need to apply for a temporary residence permit, allowing you to legally reside in the country during your employment.

3. Prepare and Submit Your Visa Application

You’ll need to gather several documents for your visa application:

• Completed visa application form

• A valid passport (with at least three months' validity beyond your intended departure)

• Recent biometric passport-sized photos

• Proof of visa fee payment

• Travel medical insurance covering your stay in Poland

• Proof of accommodation in Poland

• Evidence of stable and regular income

• Certificate of no criminal record from your home country

• Original and a copy of the seasonal work permit

• A signed employment contract from your Polish employer

Once complete, submit your application to the Polish consulate or embassy in your home country. Depending on the embassy's requirements, you may also be asked to attend a visa interview.

4. Visa Processing and Approval

Visa processing times may vary by country, but it’s strongly advised to begin the process well in advance of your planned arrival. Once approved, you will receive a work visa allowing you to travel to Poland and begin your seasonal employment.

Key Documents Checklist

• ✅ Seasonal work permit issued by the Polish Voivodeship office

• ✅ Valid passport and biometric photos

• ✅ Visa application form and payment confirmation

• ✅ Proof of accommodation and income

• ✅ Medical insurance and clean criminal record certificate

• ✅ Signed employment contract

Important Considerations

• Seasonal work permits are typically valid for up to nine months per year, often aligned with the summer season.

• The employer is legally responsible for applying for the work permit.

• The foreign worker must ensure that they obtain the appropriate visa and fulfill all legal requirements to work and reside in Poland.

For more detailed information and the latest updates, consult the official Polish Ministry of Interior website or reach out to the nearest Polish consulate or embassy in your country.

By following this step-by-step process and ensuring all your documents are in order, you can take advantage of seasonal work opportunities in Poland and experience working in one of Europe’s dynamic labor markets.