How long does it take to get a work visa in Poland?
If you're planning to move to Poland for work, one of the most important questions you'll likely have is: how long does it take to get a work visa? While the timeline can vary based on several factors, there are general timeframes you can expect when applying from abroad or within Poland.
In this blog post, we’ll break down the key stages and processing times involved in getting a work visa for Poland, so you can plan accordingly.
Understanding the Process Timeline
The process of obtaining a work visa for Poland typically includes two major stages:
- Work permit approval by the employer in Poland
- National visa (Type D) application processing by a Polish consulate or embassy
The duration largely depends on how efficiently these two steps are completed and the responsiveness of the authorities involved.
1. Work Permit Processing Time (Handled in Poland)
Before you can apply for a visa, your prospective employer in Poland must obtain a valid work permit on your behalf. This is handled by the local Voivodeship Office (Urząd Wojewódzki) in the region where the company is located.
Estimated processing time: 1 to 2 months
- Some offices process permits faster than others, especially in major cities like Warsaw, Kraków, or Wrocław.
- In peak seasons (usually spring and late summer), the process can take longer due to a high volume of applications.
- Delays can also happen if documents are incomplete or if the authorities request additional information.
Once the work permit is approved, the employer will send you the original document or a certified copy. This is necessary for your visa application.
2. Work Visa Application Time (Handled Outside Poland)
With a valid work permit in hand, you can now apply for a national visa (D-type) at the Polish consulate or embassy in your country of residence.
Estimated processing time: 10 to 30 calendar days
- Polish embassies officially state that a national visa can be issued within 15 working days. However, this varies by country and specific embassy workload.
- In some cases, particularly during busy periods or in countries with a high volume of applications, the wait time can be up to 30 calendar days.
- You may also need to attend an in-person appointment, which can further delay the process depending on the appointment availability.
Some embassies allow tracking your application status online or via email updates.
Additional Factors That May Affect Processing Time
- Country of application: Some consulates are more efficient than others. For example, applying from within the EU may be faster than applying from outside the EU.
- Completeness of documentation: Missing or incorrect documents can lead to significant delays.
- Security checks: Certain nationalities may face additional scrutiny or longer background checks.
- Seasonal workload: Summer months and the beginning of the academic year tend to see longer queues and wait times.
Can You Start Working While Waiting?
No, you cannot legally work in Poland until you have received your visa and entered Poland with valid authorization. It’s important to wait until the process is fully complete before planning your relocation or starting employment.
Final Thoughts
Securing a work visa for Poland requires patience and proper planning. Start the process well in advance of your intended move date, stay in regular contact with your employer, and keep close tabs on the visa requirements of the Polish embassy in your country. By understanding the expected timeframes, you can better prepare for a smooth transition to working life in Poland.
If you’re still at the stage of job searching or just beginning the process, it’s worth consulting with your future employer or an immigration advisor to get up-to-date guidance tailored to your situation.
