Choosing the right legal basis for a Karta pobytu is a question everyone settling in Poland faces.
This is especially relevant for those living in Poland with their families.

Which legalization path should you choose? We answer this in today's video, and below is the text version so you can refer back to it anytime.


We have previously discussed the features and specifics of each type of Karta pobytu.
Below you will find links to all the necessary materials.

Today we are answering the question: what basis should you choose to get a temporary residence permit in Poland?

To make the right choice, let's look at the following criteria:
  • the validity period of a particular type of Karta pobytu;
  • the so-called "employer binding";
  • the opportunities provided by the temporary residence permit depending on the basis of issue.


Validity period of Karta pobytu by work vs. family reunification


A temporary residence permit in Poland is granted for a period of up to 3 years.
In the case of family reunification, it lasts until the expiration of the spouse's Karta pobytu through whom you are applying.

Therefore, if both spouses are employed, applying for a Karta pobytu based on work might be the better option.
Either way, we recommend evaluating the following criteria first.


Karta pobytu with "employer binding"


In our blog, we have repeatedly mentioned that this is a colloquial term that simply involves a formal requirement – notifying the Urząd if you change jobs.
We covered the exact process of changing employers while holding an employment-based Karta pobytu in this video.


Until recently, this applied to everyone except graduates of Polish universities.

However, this procedure has been significantly simplified for Ukrainian citizens due to the war.
To be precise, it wasn't just simplified; it was removed altogether.

The Act on Assistance to Ukrainian Citizens exempts all Ukrainian citizens from needing a work permit, meaning everyone now receives a "residence permit" instead of a "residence and work permit" as the document was previously called.


If you are not a citizen of Ukraine, you need to keep in mind that:


Opportunities with work-based vs. family reunification Karta pobytu in Poland


We covered the opportunities provided by the temporary residence permit (karta pobytu) for family reunification in this video. In addition, we have an extensive article on how to apply for such a card.
We recommend reviewing all the material, as the topic is quite broad.

In turn, the karta pobytu based on work gives its holder the right to reside and work legally in Poland.
We talked in more detail about how to apply for a karta pobytu in connection with employment in this article and even prepared a video about what changes were adopted in the application process for this type of residence permit in 2022.


What is the bottom line? Work or family reunification?


Due to recent changes for Ukrainian citizens, this issue is not critical. The difference is only in the validity period of the card.

In other cases, the choice depends on several factors:
  • whether you plan to change employers or not;
  • how stable your current job is;
  • whether your employer creates difficulties in obtaining the karta pobytu;
  • whether all the criteria for issuing a particular type of karta pobytu are met;
  • whether the validity period for a family reunification karta pobytu suits your needs.


If you have any doubts or questions, feel free to contact us.
We provide qualified assistance and help with document processing, ensuring you get your karta pobytu in the shortest possible time.

Get in touch with us by filling out the form below or calling the specified phone number.
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