Poland continues to be a popular destination for foreign workers seeking employment opportunities in a variety of sectors. To legally work in the country, non-EU citizens must obtain a valid work permit that matches their job type, duration of stay, and employment arrangement. In 2025, Polish authorities issue several categories of work permits, each tailored to specific employment circumstances.
1. Type A – Standard Employment with a Polish Employer
This is the most common work permit issued to foreigners who are directly employed by a Polish company. In addition to the work permit, the applicant must also possess a valid residence permit to legally live and work in Poland. Type A permits are typically issued for jobs across a wide range of industries such as construction, manufacturing, IT, and services.
2. Type B – Board Members and Company Executives
Foreign nationals who are appointed as members of a company’s board and intend to stay in Poland for over six months within a year must apply for a Type B permit. This category is designed specifically for executives and decision-makers within companies operating in Poland.
3. Type C – Intra-Company Transfers
Type C permits apply to foreign employees who are temporarily transferred to a branch or office of their company located in Poland. This is common in multinational corporations that rotate personnel among international offices. The employee must remain under the foreign employer's contract during the transfer period.
4. Type D – Foreign Assignments Without a Polish Branch
When a foreign company sends its employees to work in Poland, but does not have a registered branch or office in the country, a Type D permit is required. This arrangement often applies to specialist or project-based assignments carried out on Polish territory.
5. Type E – Other Temporary Work Assignments
If a foreign worker is sent to Poland for purposes not covered by the above categories—such as consultancy work, training, or service delivery—they may be eligible for a Type E permit. This permit provides flexibility for unique or irregular employment scenarios.
6. Type S – Seasonal Agricultural Work
Foreign nationals seeking employment in seasonal agricultural jobs—such as harvesting or farm labor—must apply for a Type S permit. This permit is designed to support the labor-intensive nature of Poland's agricultural sector, particularly during peak seasons.
Navigating the Polish work permit system requires understanding which type best suits your employment situation. Whether you are seeking full-time employment with a local company, working as a senior executive, or taking up seasonal agricultural work, Poland offers structured legal pathways for foreigners to work legally and securely within its borders. Proper documentation and compliance with immigration laws are essential for a smooth employment experience in Poland.