A non-EU foreigner who wants to work in Poland usually needs a work permit – unless they are exempt (for example holders of the Karta Polaka, graduates of Polish full-time studies, or certain other groups). The application for a type A permit is filed by the employer. Investya handles these cases across Poland – for companies and for workers themselves.
Work permit types (A–E)
| Type | When it applies |
|---|---|
| A | Work for an employer based in Poland – the most common case |
| B | Serving on a company's management board, staying in Poland over 6 months per year |
| C | Posting by a foreign employer to a related entity in Poland (over 30 days) |
| D | Posting to provide an export service |
| E | Other postings for a period longer than 3 months |
Declaration vs. work permit
For nationals of selected countries (incl. Ukraine, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova and Armenia) there is a simplified route – the employer's declaration to entrust work (oświadczenie). It allows up to 24 months of work, is registered with the district labour office, and is usually much faster than a full permit. All other cases require a work permit issued by the voivode.
Who applies, and where
The application for a work permit (type A) is filed by the employer at the voivodeship office for the employer's seat. The declaration is registered with the district labour office. On the basis of the permit, the foreigner then applies for a visa or a residence card.
Labour market test (starosta's opinion)
In some cases, before the permit is issued, a starosta's opinion is required – the so-called labour market test, which checks whether there are unemployed candidates for the position. Many occupations are exempt (regional shortage-occupation lists). We'll check whether the test applies to you.
Costs
| Item | Fee |
|---|---|
| Work permit (work up to 3 months) | 100 PLN |
| Work permit (work over 3 months) | 200 PLN |
| Employer's declaration (oświadczenie) | 100 PLN |
Government fees are identical across Poland. On top of that come sworn translations of documents.
How long does it take?
It depends on the voivodeship office and how complete your documents are – usually from a few weeks to a few months. The declaration is normally registered much faster. It's worth starting the procedure early.
How Investya helps
We pick the right permit type, assemble the documents, run the labour market test where required, and represent you before the office – in any city in Poland. A work permit is often combined with a residence card in a single application (the single permit for residence and work). See also our full work permits & legalization service.
Frequently asked questions
For a type A permit, the employer applies. The foreigner then uses it to obtain a visa or a residence card.
The declaration (oświadczenie) is a simplified, faster route for nationals of selected countries (up to 24 months of work), registered with the district labour office. A work permit is issued by the voivode and covers all other cases.
No. Many occupations are exempt from the labour market test under regional shortage-occupation lists. We'll check whether the starosta's opinion is required in your case.
Yes. The single permit for residence and work covers both in one procedure – often the most convenient option for people living in Poland.
Need a work permit in Poland?
Book a free consultation – we'll pick the right route and guide you through the whole process.
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