Graduated from a university in Poland and planning to stay here for at least the next few years?
In this episode, we talk about how not to miss the moment and legalize your stay on time after graduation, and most importantly – how to do it RIGHT.
Getting a higher education in the EU is great!
But it's important to remember that your legal stay in Poland ends at the same time as your studies.
And here it is crucial not to miss the moment and get your legal status sorted on time.
How can a graduate of a Polish university apply for a residence permit?
There are three options:
First: You already have a job;
Second: You are looking for a job;
Third: You plan to start your own business.
Let's break down all the options.
Option No. 1
If you are working legally – which, given the prices in Poland, is what over 70% of all students do – then things are straightforward with the documents.
We apply for a karta pobytu based on work, and don't forget to submit your diploma, which exempts you from the requirement to have a work permit.
This means you are not tied to a specific employer.
Check out the application process here.
Option No. 2
You can obtain a residence permit for graduates of a Polish university looking for a job.
Such a card is issued under the so-called “other circumstances” (inne okoliczности) and the justification states: Absolwent studiów wyższych poszukujący pracy.
What documents are needed:
A higher education diploma, health insurance, and a bank statement confirming sufficient funds to cover your living expenses for the next 9 months.
Pay attention!
To confirm sufficient funds, you need to show that you have enough money to cover the minimum cost of living as well as accommodation costs.
You also need to provide photos, a passport, and payment receipts: 340 zł for processing the application and 100 zł for printing the plastic card.
Next, we submit the documents for the card – if you find a job while the application is being processed, we change the purpose of stay to work. If you find a job after receiving your karta pobytu, we apply for a new work-based card.
What about those who worked enough during their studies, gained experience and knowledge, and are ready to start their own business? Check out Option No. 3.
Option No. 3
You need to register as a JDG while your karta pobytu based on studies is still valid.
Then you will receive numerous state benefits.
Read about this in detail here.
If you register a business after graduation, you won't get any legalization privileges.
Therefore, you simply describe your activities to the inspector, and provide the company's financial history or client contracts.
Detailed instructions here.
If you need help with legalization, starting a business, or have other document-related questions – we are always ready to help.
Leave a request on the website and we will contact you!
See you soon!
Useful materials:
New rules for applying for a work-based Karta pobytu
JDG – For whom? Who can register as a sole proprietor in Poland?
Sole proprietorship in Poland. Who can become one and how to register a business?
Residence permit in Poland through business? All about getting a karta pobytu based on business activity
