Can Students Work Part-Time in Poland?
Poland has become a popular destination for international students due to its high-quality education, affordable living costs, and growing job opportunities. If you're planning to study in Poland, you might be wondering:
Can students work part-time while studying?
The answer is yes. But there are important rules, conditions, and tips you should know before you start looking for a job.
Who Can Work Part-Time?
International students from outside the EU/EEA can work part-time legally in Poland if they meet certain conditions, including:
-
Being enrolled in a full-time course at a Polish university (recognized by the government)
-
Having a valid student visa or temporary residence permit
-
During academic holidays (e.g., summer), you can work full-time without any special permit
EU/EEA students do not need a work permit and can work freely, just like Polish citizens.
How Many Hours Can You Work?
-
During the academic year: Up to 20 hours per week
-
During holidays (e.g. summer break): Up to 40 hours per week or full-time
Working more than the allowed hours may violate your visa conditions, so make sure to keep track.
Average Part-Time Wages
As of 2025, part-time student jobs in Poland pay around:
-
25–35 PLN/hour for basic jobs (cafes, delivery, retail)
-
35–50 PLN/hour for skilled roles (IT, tutoring, language teaching)
So, working 20 hours per week, you could earn 2,000–3,000 PLN/month, enough to help cover living costs.
Common Part-Time Jobs for Students
-
Warehouse or logistics assistant
-
Barista or café staff
-
Supermarket cashier
-
English/foreign language tutor
-
Freelance (design, writing, coding)
-
Customer service (English-speaking roles in BPOs)
Some universities also offer on-campus jobs, like helping in libraries, administrative offices, or events.
What Documents Do You Need?
Before applying for a job, make sure you have:
-
Valid student visa/residence card
-
PESEL number (Polish national ID – needed for tax and contracts)
-
Bank account in Poland (for salary transfers)
-
Sometimes: CV in English or Polish and a basic health insurance
Do You Need a Work Permit?
Usually no, if:
-
You’re a full-time student from a non-EU country
-
You have a valid student visa or temporary residence permit
Always double-check with your university’s International Office and your employer to be safe.
Tips for Balancing Work and Studies
-
Don’t overwork – maintain academic performance
-
Choose flexible jobs that allow night or weekend shifts
-
Use university career services to find safer, student-friendly jobs
-
Learn basic Polish – it opens up more opportunities
Final Thoughts
Yes – you can work part-time as a student in Poland in 2025. It’s a great way to gain experience, improve your Polish, and support your living expenses. Just stay informed about visa rules, work limits, and always prioritize your education.
