Work & JDG
How to get a work-based residence card in Poland in 2026
1/15/2026 · 7 min
A step-by-step guide: which documents you need, how long it takes, and what to do if your visa expires before the decision.
A work-based residence card is the most common legalization route for foreigners in Poland. Let’s break the process down step by step.
Important: submit your documents before your current visa expires — you’ll then get the stamp (stempel) and keep your right to stay legally.
Step one is to make sure your employer holds a work permit (Zezwolenie A), or that you work under an oświadczenie.