Can a Student Visa Be Converted to a Work Visa in Poland?
Poland has become a top destination for international students, offering high-quality education, affordable living costs, and a pathway to employment. One common question among foreign students in Poland is whether a student visa can be converted to a work visa after graduation. The answer is yes—but the process requires proper documentation and planning. This guide explains how to transition from a student visa to a work visa in Poland legally and smoothly.
1. Understanding the Basics
In Poland, international students from outside the EU typically enter the country on a National Visa (Type D) or a Temporary Residence Permit for the purpose of studying. These permits are time-bound and tied to your educational status.
To remain in Poland after completing your studies, you must switch to a new legal basis for your stay—such as employment. This involves applying for:
- A work permit, and
- A temporary residence permit for the purpose of work
You cannot work full-time in Poland on a student visa alone after graduation, even if you have found a job. The transition is essential to stay compliant with immigration laws.
2. Finding Employment
The first step in converting your student visa to a work visa is securing a job offer from a Polish employer. The offer must be formal and meet legal requirements regarding salary, contract type, and duration.
Your employer will typically need to:
- Prove the job cannot be easily filled by a Polish or EU citizen (labor market test, if required)
- Provide a written employment contract or civil law agreement
- Assist in the work permit application (if needed)
3. Applying for a Work Permit
A work permit (Type A) is required if you are hired directly by a Polish employer. The permit is issued by the Voivodeship Office (Urząd Wojewódzki) and is employer-specific.
To apply, the employer must submit:
- A completed application form
- A copy of your passport
- Details of the job position and salary
- Company registration documents
- Payment of application fees
In some cases (e.g. graduates of Polish universities), a work permit may not be required, but a residence permit for work is still necessary.
4. Applying for a Temporary Residence Permit for Work
Once you have a job offer, you must apply for a temporary residence permit for the purpose of performing work. This application is filed by you (the foreign national), not your employer.
Required documents include:
- Completed residence permit application
- Valid passport
- Employment contract or job offer
- Employer’s details (NIP, REGON, company information)
- Proof of health insurance
- Proof of accommodation in Poland
- Proof of financial means
- Biometric photos
Submit your application before your student residence permit expires to avoid any gaps in legal stay. You may remain in Poland during the processing period if you apply on time.
5. Timeline and Processing
Processing times for residence permits can vary depending on the region but typically take 1 to 3 months. Delays are common, so early preparation is recommended.
You may receive a stamp in your passport confirming the application has been submitted, which allows you to stay in Poland legally while your case is under review.
6. Graduates of Polish Universities: A Special Case
Graduates of Polish higher education institutions benefit from simplified procedures:
- You may be exempt from needing a work permit, especially if your degree aligns with the job.
- You are eligible to apply for a temporary residence permit to look for work (valid up to 9 months) if you have not yet found a job after graduation.
This temporary permit allows you to stay in Poland while seeking employment, giving you time to secure a job offer and transition to a work-based permit.
7. Key Things to Remember
- You cannot work full-time in Poland on a student visa after graduation without changing your legal status.
- Always apply for a residence permit before your current visa or permit expires.
- The new permit is employer-specific; if you change jobs, a new permit or modification is required.
- Keep all documentation updated and retain copies of everything submitted.
Final Thoughts
Yes, you can convert a student visa to a work visa in Poland—but it requires finding a job, understanding the permit process, and applying for a new residence status. With the right approach and timely action, this transition can be a smooth path toward building your professional career in Poland.
