Work Permits in Poland (Types A–E)

Who needs one

Non-EU foreigners generally need a work permit to work legally, unless exempted. Exemptions include:

• Holders of a karta pobytu (residence permit) with work access.
• Students studying in Poland.
• Refugees and protected persons.
• Ukrainians under the special assistance law.

Types

• Type A — employed by a Polish employer (most common).
• Type B — board member of a Polish company (6+ months).
• Type C — secondment to a Polish branch of a foreign employer (30+ days).
• Type D — secondment for export services.
• Type E — other work (temporary, seasonal).

Employer's role

The employer applies at the Starostwo Powiatowe (county labour office), not the employee. Requirements include a labour-market test (offer advertised for 21 days) and proving no suitable local candidate.

Seasonal work

Seasonal work permits (praca sezonowa) are faster, for agriculture, tourism, and similar sectors, up to 9 months/year.

Ukrainians

Under the special law following the 2022 invasion, Ukrainian citizens may work without a permit for a defined period; confirm the current status with UDSC, as rules are updated.

Oświadczenie

For short-term work (up to 24 months, some nationalities), an oświadczenie (employer's declaration) can substitute for a permit; rules tightened — verify current eligibility.