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Getting a work permit in Poland: what you actually need to know

Type A, B, C, seasonal: the Polish work permit system has layers. We cut through them so you or your employee can start working legally, without delays.

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Who needs a work permit?

If you’re a non-EU citizen and want to work in Poland, you’ll almost certainly need a work permit. The employer applies for it, not the employee, and it’s issued by the voivodeship office (urząd wojewódzki) where the company is registered.

Citizens of EU/EEA countries and Switzerland don’t need a work permit. Neither do holders of certain residence permits that already include work authorization.

Types of work permits

Type A: the most common

For foreigners employed by a company registered in Poland. This is what most people need. Valid for up to 3 years and tied to a specific employer, position, and salary.

Type B: board members

For foreigners who serve on the management board of a company in Poland or act as a general partner in a partnership. Required when the stay exceeds 6 months in any 12-month period.

Type C and D: posted workers

For employees of foreign companies who are sent to work temporarily in Poland. Type C is for branches or subsidiaries, Type D is for service contracts.

Seasonal permits

For temporary work in agriculture, hospitality, and other seasonal industries. Valid for up to 9 months within a calendar year. Issued by the local starostwo (district office), not the voivodeship.

How long does it take?

Processing times depend on which voivodeship office handles your case. In Małopolska (Krakow), Type A work permits typically take 30–60 days. Some offices are faster, some slower, and staffing shortages at government offices can cause delays.

What does it cost?

The government fee for a Type A work permit is 400 PLN (200 PLN for permits under 3 months). Our service fee depends on the complexity of the case: we’ll quote you a clear price after an initial consultation.

What we handle for you

  • Full document preparation and verification
  • Work permit application submission
  • Communication with voivodeship office
  • Tracking and status updates throughout
  • Renewal management and deadline tracking

Work Permit — Frequently Asked Questions

Typically 30–60 days, depending on the voivodeship office and permit type. We handle the full process from start to finish.

Not on the work permit application alone. However, if the employee also applies for a temporary residence permit (single permit / zezwolenie na pobyt czasowy i pracę), they receive a stamp in their passport that may allow them to work during processing. We’ll advise on the best approach for your situation.

The government fee is 400 PLN for a standard Type A work permit, or 200 PLN for permits under 3 months. Our service fees depend on the case: we provide a clear quote after an initial consultation.

The employer. The work permit application must be submitted by the hiring company. As the employer, you remain the formal applicant, while we manage and support the entire process on your behalf.

Rejections are rare with proper preparation. If it happens, we assess the reason, advise on whether to appeal or reapply, and handle the next steps. Most rejections are due to incomplete documentation, something we prevent by thorough preparation.

Need a work permit in Poland?
We handle the full process

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