How do I apply for a residence permit and residence card in Poland?

Short answer:

You apply for a temporary residence permit to the voivode (provincial governor) of the region where you live, mostly electronically through the MOS system (mos.cudzoziemcy.gov.pl). According to voivodeship offices, the stamp duty is 340 zł for a temporary stay permit and 440 zł for a single permit (stay and work), plus 100 zł for the residence card – confirm the current amounts and payment method before you pay.

Apply while your stay is still legal – do not wait until the last days. Rules about when you may stay and work while your application is pending depend on your case: check at UdSC or with the voivodeship office.

Which types of temporary permits exist?

Common grounds: work (single permit – stay and work), business activity, studies, family reunification, research, and others set out in the Act on Foreigners. The list of required documents depends on the ground.

How does the application process work?

  1. Prepare documents: valid travel document, photos, proof of purpose of stay (contract, school letter), proof of accommodation, health insurance and funds, as required.
  2. Submit the application in the MOS system or according to the voivodeship office instructions (some offices still accept paper applications in certain cases).
  3. Pay the stamp duty and the card fee on the accounts given by the office – these are separate payments.
  4. Attend the appointment to give fingerprints and have your documents checked.
  5. After a positive decision, collect your residence card.

What fees apply?

ItemFee
Temporary stay permit (most grounds)340 zł
Single permit (stay + work)440 zł
Residence card100 zł

Amounts reported by voivodeship offices; check the current fee list on mos.cudzoziemcy.gov.pl.

See also

How can a foreigner get a PESEL number in Poland?

How to get a PESEL number as a foreigner in Poland: free of charge, automatic after registering your address for over 30 days, or by application at the commune office.

Otwórz →

How does health insurance (NFZ) work for foreigners in Poland?

Health insurance in Poland for foreigners: employees and contractors are covered through ZUS contributions; others can buy voluntary NFZ insurance (835.04 zł/month in Q2 2026).

Otwórz →

How do I register my address (meldunek) in Poland as a foreigner?

Register your address in Poland within 30 days of arrival for stays over 3 months (temporary) or permanently – free, online on gov.pl or at the commune office.

Otwórz →

Do I have to exchange my foreign driving licence for a Polish one?

Driving licence exchange in Poland: after 185 days of residence you must exchange a non-EU licence; EU/EEA licences are valid while in date. Where to apply and what to take.

Otwórz →

Najczęstsze pytania

Where do I apply for a residence permit?

To the voivode of the region where you live, usually via the MOS portal.

What is the single permit?

A permit that covers both residence and work with a specific employer in Poland.

How much is the residence card?

100 zł, paid separately from the permit fee.

Can I work while my application is pending?

It depends on your case and the type of application. Check the rules at UdSC or ask the voivodeship office before you start work.

Where can I get official information?

On gov.pl/udsc, mos.cudzoziemcy.gov.pl and migrant.info.pl.

Źródła

Last updated: 2026-11-04.