How to Get Permanent Residency in Poland – Step-by-Step (2025)

Gaining permanent residency in Poland is one of the biggest milestones for foreigners living long-term in the country. It gives you stability, freedom on the labour market, access to social benefits and the security of not needing constant renewals. But the path to permanent residency is strict, full of detailed requirements and long waiting times. This guide walks you through the process clearly so you know exactly what to expect.

What is permanent residency in Poland?

Permanent residency (stały pobyt) is a long-term residence permit allowing you to live and work in Poland indefinitely. Unlike temporary residence cards, it does not expire every 1–3 years and does not restrict your access to the labour market. You still receive a physical residence card valid for 10 years, but renewing it is a simple administrative procedure.

Permanent residency is different from EU long-term residence, though many people confuse the two. Each status has its own requirements and benefits, so make sure you know which one you qualify for.

Who can apply for permanent residency in Poland?

You may qualify for permanent residency if you fall into one of the categories defined by law. Most common groups include:

Family-based eligibility

• Spouses of Polish citizens after at least 3 years of marriage and 2 years of continuous stay in Poland on a TRC.
• Children of Polish citizens.
• Children born during the period of a parent holding permanent residency.

Polish origin

• Holders of the Karta Polaka
• People who can prove Polish heritage or cultural ties.

Humanitarian or protective grounds

• Refugees, subsidiary protection holders, or people granted humanitarian stay.

Victims of human trafficking

With conditions defined by the relevant law.

If you do not fall into one of these categories, permanent residency may not be available, but EU long-term residency could be an alternative route.

Required documents for a permanent residency application

The exact list varies by case, but most applicants will need:

• Completed application form for permanent residency
• Passport and copies
• Biometric photos
• Proof of stable and regular income
• Proof of accommodation
• Marriage certificate, birth certificates, or documents proving origin (if applicable)
• Confirmation of legal stay periods
• Health insurance documents
• Karta Polaka (if applicable)

In family cases, sworn translations must accompany foreign documents.

How to apply for permanent residency in Poland – step-by-step

Step 1: Check your eligibility
Before applying, confirm you meet the legal requirements. Submitting an application without meeting conditions almost always results in refusal.

Step 2: Gather all documents
Missing documents often delay applications by months. Offices frequently request supplements if the file is incomplete.

Step 3: Submit the application
You can submit:

• In person at the voivodeship office
• By post (recommended only if your stay is still valid at the moment of receipt)

Your stay becomes legal from the date the office receives your application if you applied before your current card/visa expires.

Step 4: Attend fingerprinting and interviews
Fingerprints are mandatory. Some applicants also undergo an interview—especially in marriage-based cases—to confirm the authenticity of the relationship.

Step 5: Wait for the decision
Waiting times vary widely:

• Smaller cities: 6–12 months
• Larger voivodeships (Warsaw, Kraków, Wrocław): 12–24+ months

Permanent residency applications undergo very detailed examination, so long delays are normal.

Step 6: Collect your residence card
Once approved, you receive a 10-year card. Renewal later is simple and does not require proving eligibility again.

Common reasons for refusal

Many applicants are refused due to:

• Insufficient documentation
• Not meeting continuous stay requirements
• Unstable or undeclared income
• Doubts about the authenticity of marriage
• Incorrect interpretation of eligibility rules
• Gaps in legal stay
• Incomplete translations

A consultation before submission can prevent most of these issues.

Benefits of permanent residency in Poland

• Unlimited right to live in Poland
• Free access to the labour market – no work permit needed
• Long-term stability and easier renewals
• Eligibility for many social benefits
• Easier path to Polish citizenship after meeting additional requirements
• Freedom to run a business in most forms

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I need to stay in Poland to qualify?

It depends on your category. Marriage-based applicants need 2 years of continuous stay; Karta Polaka holders can apply immediately; refugees need several years.

Can I travel while my application is in progress?

Your stay in Poland is legal, but travel outside the Schengen Area may be complicated until you receive a new card.

Is permanent residency the same as citizenship?

No. Citizenship gives political rights and a passport. Permanent residency allows lifelong stay but not voting.

Does permanent residency expire?

Your card expires every 10 years, but the legal status does not—unless you commit certain serious violations.

Can I lose permanent residency?

Yes, in rare cases such as fraud, security concerns, or long-term absence from Poland.

Conclusion

Permanent residency is one of the strongest residence statuses in Poland, but the application requires careful preparation, legal accuracy and patience. Understanding the criteria and preparing complete documentation significantly increases your chances of approval. If you need support with assessing eligibility or preparing your file, foreigners.pl can guide you through the entire process.