During studies at a Polish university, it is necessary to have an official document for legal residence in Poland. This document is called a Residence Card - a document confirming identity and status in Poland. It is a plastic card containing the photograph and biometric data of its holder.
This document can be obtained by students studying in full-time programs at the bachelor's and master's levels.
There are two main types of Residence Cards - temporary residence and permanent residence. There is also a third type - the Blue Card, but obtaining it requires separate conditions.
Students are issued a Residence Card for temporary residence valid for 15 months. After the expiration of this period, the card can be renewed (if the studies continue).
Advantages of the Residence Card compared to a visa:
- Multiple border crossings and the ability to travel to other EU countries without additional visa formalities;
- Ability to purchase and register vehicles;
- Access to medical care in Polish state clinics;
- Ability to start a business and engage in entrepreneurship;
- The Residence Card provides more advantages for internships, traineeships, and employment;
- After the initial 15-month card, the subsequent one is usually issued for 3 years, and continuous residence in the Republic of Poland with Residence Cards for 3 years entitles you to obtain a Permanent Residence Card;
Important. Holders of the Residence Card can apply for visas at US and UK consulates, with the refusal rate for such visas in Poland being no more than 5%, which is a very low percentage compared to other countries. Migration law attorneys on our "Consultant" marketplace can help you gather the necessary documents for applying for visas to the US and UK. The service also includes full support in obtaining the visa.
To obtain a Residence Card, a student needs to:
- Fill out the "Wniosek o udzielenie zezwolenia na pobyt czasowy" application form - 3 copies;
- Provide 4 copies of a photo sized 3.5x4.5 cm, taken no later than 6 months before submitting the application;
- Submit 3 copies of the passport and its copies;
- Provide a certificate from the Polish university confirming that you are indeed a student of their university (the validity of this certificate from the university should not exceed 1 month);
- Provide a receipt for payment of at least 1 semester's tuition at the university;
- Provide a receipt for the residence card issuance fee;
- Submit a bank statement showing funds of at least 10,000 zlotys or a certificate of income from employment. These documents are valid for 1 month from the date of issue;
- Submit the original and a copy of the lease agreement for accommodation.
All documents must be submitted as a single package. In case of errors in filling out the application or discrepancies in the documents, or if their validity expires, an inspector may contact you for clarification, or the issuance of the Residence Card may be delayed.
On our "Consultant" marketplace, you can choose a migration law attorney who will help you gather the necessary documents or provide you with full support in obtaining the Residence Card due to employment in Poland.
