Residence Card for Students in Poland
If you're a student planning to study in Poland and wish to obtain a temporary residence card (karta pobytu), there are specific requirements and procedures you must follow. This article outlines the key steps and conditions for securing a residence permit as a student in Poland.
1. Legal Stay in Poland
The first requirement for applying for a temporary residence card is that the student must be legally residing in Poland. This can be under a visa-free regime or on the basis of a previously issued visa. It's essential to ensure your stay is in compliance with Polish immigration regulations.
2. Proof of Enrollment and Duration of Studies
The next condition is demonstrating the grounds for your stay. This means you must provide proof of enrollment at a university, along with a course schedule or a study plan that confirms the duration of your stay in Poland. The permit will only be granted if your stay is expected to last for at least three months.
3. Financial Solvency
To apply for a temporary residence permit, students must show that they have sufficient financial resources to support themselves during their stay in Poland. This can be proven with bank statements, proof of sponsorship, or income from work in Poland. The goal is to demonstrate that you can financially sustain yourself without relying on public assistance.
4. Place of Residence
A valid address in Poland is another crucial requirement. Applicants must provide a lease agreement for a place of residence, such as an apartment, hostel, or student dormitory. This helps establish that you have adequate accommodation during your stay.
5. Duration of the Temporary Residence Permit
The initial temporary residence permit for full-time students is typically granted for a period of 15 months. This allows students to stay and study in Poland for a substantial period of time. Importantly, once you receive the residence card, you gain the right to work in Poland without needing an additional work permit. The residence card will be stamped with "Access to the labor market," granting you permission to take up employment while studying.
Obtaining a temporary residence card in Poland is a straightforward process if you meet all the necessary criteria. As long as you can prove legal stay, enrollment in a Polish institution, financial independence, and secure housing, you will be well on your way to studying and working in Poland with your residence permit.
