Poland is one of Europe’s fastest-growing economies, offering a strong job market, affordable living, and career opportunities in various industries. With many multinational companies establishing offices in Poland, skilled workers from across the world are moving to Poland to take advantage of its competitive salaries and high demand for specialists.
Additionally, Poland’s central location in Europe makes it an attractive destination for professionals looking to work within the EU. The country also offers a clear path for non-EU citizens to secure employment and long-term residency.
Step 1: Find a Job in Poland
The first step to moving to Poland for work is securing a job offer from a Polish employer. Popular industries hiring foreign workers include IT, finance, engineering, manufacturing, and healthcare.
Some ways to find job opportunities include:
Searching on Polish job portals such as Pracuj.pl, Indeed Poland, and LinkedIn Jobs.
Networking with professionals in your industry.
Contacting recruitment agencies specializing in foreign hires.
Checking company websites directly for vacancies.
Step 2: Obtain a Work Permit
If you are a non-EU citizen, you will likely need a work permit before you can start working legally in Poland. Your employer is responsible for applying for the permit on your behalf.
The most common types of work permits include:
Type A – For employees hired by a Polish company.
Type B – For individuals serving as board members of a Polish company.
Type C-E – For foreigners working for companies outside Poland but providing services in the country.
Some exemptions exist, such as for holders of the EU Blue Card, students, and highly skilled professionals.
Step 3: Apply for a Work Visa
Once you have a job offer and work permit, you must apply for a national work visa (Type D Visa) at the Polish consulate or embassy in your home country.
Required documents typically include:
A valid passport
Work permit from your employer
Job contract or official job offer letter
Proof of accommodation in Poland
Financial proof to cover initial expenses
Health insurance
Visa processing times vary, so it is advisable to apply well in advance of your planned start date. If you need assistance with your work Visa process, make sure to reach out to us for assistance.
Step 4: Secure Accommodation in Poland
Before relocating, you should arrange housing. Options include:
Renting an apartment – Common for professionals, with prices varying by city.
Shared accommodation – More affordable for newcomers.
Employer-provided housing – Some companies offer accommodation as part of employment benefits.
Real estate websites such as Otodom.pl and Olx.pl can help in your search for housing.
Step 5: Register for a PESEL Number
A PESEL number is a national identification number required for various administrative processes, including healthcare and banking.
To obtain one:
Visit the local city hall (Urząd Miasta) in your city.
Provide your passport, visa, and proof of residence.
Complete the necessary application form.
If you need assistance with your PESEL, make sure to reach out to us for assistance.
Step 6: Apply for a Temporary Residence Permit
If your employment contract extends beyond your visa validity, you must apply for a temporary residence permit. This allows you to legally stay and work in Poland long-term.
To apply, submit the following to the local Voivodeship Office (Urząd Wojewódzki):
Completed residence permit application form
Valid passport and visa
Work permit and employment contract
Proof of financial stability
Health insurance coverage
Proof of accommodation
Applications should be submitted before your visa expires, as processing may take several months. If you need assistance with your TRC process, make sure to reach out to us for assistance.
Step 7: Open a Polish Bank Account
A Polish bank account is essential for receiving your salary and managing daily expenses.
To open an account, you typically need:
A valid passport
PESEL number (recommended but not always required)
Employment confirmation from your employer
Popular banks in Poland include PKO Bank Polski, ING Bank, mBank, and Santander Bank Polska.
Step 8: Enroll in the Healthcare System
Poland has a public healthcare system (NFZ - Narodowy Fundusz Zdrowia) that covers employees through social security contributions.
Your employer will register you in the system, but you should ensure:
Your employment contract includes NFZ contributions.
You receive an NFZ health insurance number.
Private health insurance is also an option, offering shorter wait times and additional coverage.
Step 9: Integrate into Polish Work and Social Life
Adapting to a new country is about more than just securing a job. Here are some tips for integrating into Polish professional and social culture:
Learn basic Polish – While many workplaces use English, knowing Polish helps with daily life.
Understand workplace etiquette – Polish workplaces value punctuality, formality, and professionalism.
Network and make connections – Join expat groups, attend industry meetups, and participate in local events.
Explore Poland – The country offers rich cultural experiences, from historical sites to vibrant city life.
How to move to Poland for work - Summary
Moving to Poland for work can be a great opportunity for career growth, financial stability, and an improved quality of life. By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth relocation process and set yourself up for long-term success in Poland.
If you want to know other methods of relocating to Poland, check out our complete guide.
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