Poland
July 2011
This summary is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered an authoritative guide on how to obtain work authorization in Poland. The intent is to give the reader a general overview of the process only. Procedures and requirements may have changed since the writing of this article or may have been inaccurately characterized in it. For current and detailed information regarding the topics below, as well as documentary requirements, processing times, post-arrival and departure requirements, penalties for non-compliance, allowances for accompanying family members, and any other information pertaining to your specific needs, please contact your Pro-Link GLOBAL immigration professional.
BUSINESS VISITOR
Permitted Activities - Business visitors must generally limit their activities to the following:
- Meetings
- Negotiations
- Seminars and conferences
Type of Business Visas - The Visa type will depend on the nationality of the traveler. The following are examples of the types of business visa that are available to the business traveler.
- 1. Schengen C Visa
Basic Requirements -
- 1. Intention of a genuine visit for business and not for paid employment;
- 2. Good health and character;
- 3. Evidence that there are no restrictions on his or her traveling to Poland;
- 4. No intention to permanently reside in Poland;
- 5. A ticket for onward travel from Poland;
- 6. Proof of funds
Estimated Processing Times - This varies by diplomatic post and country.
Maximum Validity of Business Visa - Short business visits are allowed for up to 90 days in any given 180-day period. Typically, visas cannot be extended in country.
Typical Documents Required -
All travelers need to present the following documents to officers in immigration clearance:
- a valid passport or other acceptable travel document and in some cases
- a valid visa or authority to enter Poland
EMPLOYMENT AUTHORIZATION
Basic Requirements - The principal visa category for temporary employment in Poland is the work permit. This is a category for employers to sponsor approved skilled workers to work in Poland on a temporary basis.
Who is this visa for? - This visa is for employers who would like to employ overseas workers to fill skilled and qualified positions in Poland.
Process Overview - This process outlines obtaining work and residence authorization for intra-company transferees remaining on their home company payrolls. (Please note that additional steps are required for local hires.) The traditional process involves four steps as follows:
1. Work permit application - submitted in Poland;
2." D" Visa application - long-term visa application submitted to the Polish consulate in home country;
3. Address registration - post arrival;
4. Residence permit application - for employee and all family members to regularize status and ability to travel outside Poland.
Estimated Processing Time -six to eight weeks
Validity periods - Work permit may be valid for up to 36 months.
Family Members - Secondary/ family dependants cannot work and study without separate authorization.
