Karta Pobytu: Guide to Polish Temporary Residence Permits
Learn how to submit your wniosek, obtain Załącznik nr 1, and secure legal status in Poland.
A Karta Pobytu (Residence Card) is the official document certifying your temporary residence permit (zezwolenie na pobyt czasowy) and work authorization in Poland. The application process is managed by the Voivodeship Office (Urząd Wojewódzki) corresponding to the region where you reside and work. This permit allows you to legally work for a specific employer, rent housing, and travel within the Schengen Area.
The processing of Karta Pobytu in 2026 is known for long waiting periods. To avoid delays, it is critical that your employer correctly completes the legally required employer's annex (Załącznik nr 1), that you pay the necessary stamp duty, and that you submit the application before your current legal stay expires.
📋 Process for Obtaining a Karta Pobytu
- 1
Complete the Wniosek Form
Fill out the temporary residence application (wniosek o pobyt czasowy) in Polish. Print two copies and sign them.
- 2
Obtain Annex 1 from Employer
Have your employer complete and sign Załącznik nr 1. This annex details your job position, work hours, and minimum salary.
- 3
Pay the Stamp Duty
Pay the 440 PLN stamp duty (opłata skarbowa) to the bank account of the city municipality and print the transaction receipt.
- 4
Submit the Files to Urząd
Submit your application to the Urząd Wojewódzki. Secure an appointment online or send it via certified post to get a passport stamp.
- 5
Submit Biometrics
Attend your scheduled biometrics appointment to submit your fingerprints and present your original passport for verification.
- 6
Collect Your Decision and Card
Wait for the decision (decyzja) letter. Once approved, pay the 100 PLN card fee and collect your Karta Pobytu card.
✅ Required Documents
- ▸Two completed copies of the wniosek form in Polish
- ▸Original Załącznik nr 1 signed by your employer
- ▸Valid passport and copy of all stamped pages
- ▸Four recent biometric photographs (3.5 x 4.5 cm)
- ▸Valid employment contract (umowa o pracę or zlecenie)
- ▸Proof of health insurance (ZUS RCA confirmation)
- ▸Receipt of the 440 PLN stamp duty payment
⚠️ Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- ✕Submitting the Załącznik nr 1 with incorrect salary or employment terms (must meet minimum wage requirements)
- ✕Failing to report a change of employer or work terms within 15 days, which makes your Karta Pobytu legally void
- ✕Submitting bank transfer confirmations instead of official ZUS social security declarations as proof of insurance
- ✕Leaving Poland for long periods while the application is pending, as a passport stamp does not permit Schengen reentry
💶 Fees, Processing Times & Location
The stamp duty (opłata skarbowa) for a temporary residence and work permit is 440 PLN. Issuing the physical card costs 100 PLN (approx. on 2026). Payments must be transferred to the bank account of the local tax authority. Processing times vary widely from 3 to 12 months depending on the Voivodeship. Applications are submitted at the local Urząd Wojewódzki.
📖 Useful Polish Bureaucratic Terms
- pobyt czasowy
- Temporary residence
- Załącznik nr 1
- Employer's annex form
- opłata skarbowa
- Stamp duty fee
- Urząd Wojewódzki
- Voivodeship Office
- inspektor
- Case officer / inspector
- decyzja
- Administrative decision
- pieczątka w paszporcie
- Passport stamp
- karta pobytu
- Residence card
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What does the stamp in my passport mean?+
The stamp (pieczątka) certifies that your application was submitted on time. It legalizes your stay in Poland even if your visa expires, but does not allow travel in Schengen.
What happens if I change my employer?+
You must notify the Urząd Wojewódzki within 15 days of losing your job and submit a new application (with a new Załącznik nr 1) within 30 days.
How long is the first Karta Pobytu valid?+
It is typically issued for the duration of your work contract, up to a maximum of 3 years. The minimum period is usually 3 months.
Can I travel to other Schengen countries with the card?+
Yes. Once you receive the physical Karta Pobytu card, you can travel within the Schengen Zone for tourist purposes up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
Do I need to submit a lease agreement?+
In most Voivodeships, you no longer need to submit a lease agreement for a work-based permit, provided you have stable income and insurance.
What is the role of the Voivodeship Inspector?+
An inspector is assigned to your file. They review documents, request missing files, and draft the final decision on your permit.
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