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If you are a foreigner and need assistance in obtaining a residence card, contact us! Our company specializes in comprehensive legalization of residence for individual clients and companies. We will help you handle all formalities so that the process of obtaining a residence card for a foreigner goes smoothly and as quickly as possible. You don’t have to worry about not knowing the Polish language or current laws – we are here for you!
A residence card is a document that confirms your right to stay in Poland. It is issued by the voivode appropriate for your place of residence and entitles you to legally reside, work, and access selected public services in Poland.
Temporary residence cards are intended for people planning to stay in Poland for a specified period. The purpose of the stay may be studies, work, or family matters. Temporary residence cards are issued for a period ranging from 3 months to 3 years.
In contrast to the temporary residence card, permanent residence cards are issued to individuals who want to settle in Poland permanently. Obtaining this type of residence card for a foreigner involves meeting certain conditions, such as a 5-year legal stay in Poland, marriage to a Polish citizen, or having Polish descent.
These are for foreigners who have been legally and continuously residing in Poland for at least 5 years. This type of card allows for travel and stay in other EU countries under certain conditions.
Residence cards for foreigners can also be applied for by individuals who have been granted humanitarian protection, refugee status, or subsidiary protection in Poland.
A residence card for a foreigner also serves as a document confirming the identity of its holder during their stay in Poland. Together with a travel document, it allows multiple crossings of the country’s border without the need for a visa.
Moreover, a residence card entitles the holder to travel within other Schengen area countries for a period not exceeding 90 days within any 180-day period. The foreigner must have a valid travel document, justification of the purpose and conditions of the planned stay, and sufficient means of subsistence or the ability to obtain them legally.
The foreigner must not be considered a threat to public order, internal security, public health, or international relations of any EU member state. Additionally, they must not be listed in the national databases of member states as a person banned from entry for these reasons.
1) Application
The first step is to prepare an application for a residence card for a foreigner. This application can be collected in person at the office or downloaded from the provincial office’s website. It is important to fill it out accurately and carefully.
2) Required Documents
Depending on the type of residence card, different documents will be needed. The basic documents usually required include:
Documents confirming the purpose of stay:
3) Submitting the Application and Paying the Fee
The application for a residence card must be submitted in person at the provincial office appropriate for the foreigner’s place of residence. It’s advisable to schedule an appointment in advance to avoid long waiting times. Fingerprints must be taken at the office, which will be placed on the residence card.
A fee is charged for issuing the residence card. The amount depends on the type of residence card for the foreigner. It can be paid at the office cashier or via bank transfer.
4) Waiting for the Issuance of the Residence Card
The application review process can take several months. During this time, the office may request additional documents or information, so it’s essential to regularly check the status of the application.
If your temporary residence card is nearing its expiration date, remember to submit an application for a new residence card no later than the last day of your legal stay. Otherwise, you may lose the right to stay in Poland.
The mission of Foreigner is to help foreigners legalize their stay and work in Poland. If you need assistance in obtaining a temporary or permanent residence card – contact us!