How to Renew or Extend a Polish Work Visa?

Jun 20, 2025 94028568 views Work in Poland

How to Renew or Extend a Polish Work Visa?

Poland has become a popular destination for foreign workers due to its growing economy, central location in Europe, and increasing demand for skilled labor. If you're already working in Poland on a valid work visa and planning to continue your employment, it's essential to understand how to renew or extend your work visa to avoid legal complications.

This guide walks you through the step-by-step process, legal requirements, and key documents needed to extend or renew a Polish work visa.

Understanding the Basics

Before diving into the renewal process, it’s important to clarify a few key terms:

Work Visa (National Visa – Type D): This is a long-term visa issued to foreigners for employment in Poland. It usually allows stays of up to one year.
Temporary Residence Permit (TRP): If you're planning to stay longer, you typically need to apply for a temporary residence permit based on work, which can be valid for up to 3 years.

Note: You do not “renew” a visa in the traditional sense. Instead, you typically apply for a residence permit extension while still in Poland.

When to Apply for an Extension

You should apply for an extension at least 30 days before your current visa or permit expires. Applying too late can result in legal issues or even deportation.

Who Is Eligible to Apply?

To extend your stay in Poland based on work, you must meet the following conditions:

You hold a valid national visa or residence permit.
You have a valid employment contract or job offer.
You continue to meet the income and accommodation requirements.
You have not violated Polish immigration laws.

Step-by-Step Process to Extend a Polish Work Visa (Residence Permit)

1. Gather the Required Documents

You will typically need the following:

Completed application form for a temporary residence permit.
Four recent passport-size photographs.
Valid passport (plus copies of all used pages).
Current visa or residence permit.
Employment contract or civil law contract (umowa o pracę / umowa zlecenie).
Employer’s declaration of intent to continue employment.
Proof of stable income (minimum: about 776 PLN/month as of 2025).
Proof of health insurance (ZUS or private insurance).
Proof of accommodation in Poland (rental agreement, etc.).
Confirmation of tax payments (PIT, if applicable).
Application fee (340 PLN as of 2025 for TRP).

2. Book an Appointment

Visit the website of the local Voivodeship Office (Urząd Wojewódzki) where you reside to book an appointment. In some regions, walk-ins are not accepted, and you must book online.

3. Submit Your Application

Submit your application in person at the Voivodeship Office. Make sure to bring originals and copies of all documents.

4. Wait for a Decision

The decision process can take from 1 to 3 months, depending on your region and workload. You may be called in for additional documents or an interview.

Important: If you apply before your current visa or permit expires, you are allowed to stay in Poland legally until a decision is made (even if your visa expires during the process).

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Waiting too long to apply for an extension.
Incomplete documentation, especially missing insurance or financial proof.
Applying for the wrong type of permit (e.g., family reunification instead of work).
Relying on an expired job offer or employment contract.

Can You Change Jobs During the Renewal Process?

Yes, but there are conditions. If you change employers, you need a new work permit (zezwolenie na pracę) and must inform the Voivodeship Office. Some types of residence permits are employer-specific.

What If Your Application Is Rejected?

If your extension is denied, you can:

Appeal the decision within 14 days of receiving the rejection.
Leave Poland before your legal stay expires to avoid a re-entry ban.
Reapply with corrected or updated documents.

Final Tips

Always keep digital and physical copies of all documents.
Work closely with your employer to ensure all job-related documents are accurate and up to date.
Consult an immigration lawyer or agency if your case is complicated.

Conclusion

Renewing or extending your work stay in Poland can seem complex, but with the right preparation and timely action, it’s a manageable process. Start gathering your documents early, stay informed about deadlines, and make sure your employment and legal records are in order. With the proper approach, you can continue building your career in Poland without disruption.