I have a Pole’s Card (Karta Polaka)

You should apply if you hold a valid Pole's Card (Karta Polaka) and you wish to settle in Poland permanently.

You should apply for a residence permit in person before your current legal status expires (i.e. before your visa or residence card expires). If you apply to extend your stay in Poland before the expiry date of your legal status, you can legally remain in Poland while your application is pending. Make sure you have submitted an error-free application. Your passport must be valid at this time.

Before you apply, read our tips on how to fill in an application form.

1. Visit the website mos.cudzoziemcy.gov.pl and create an account.
2. Review the information and the list of common mistakes.
3. Fill out the application for a temporary residence permit.
4. Include your email address in the application. Once your application is registered by the Office, you’ll receive an access code to track the status of your case.
5. Print the application form and sign it.
6. Send the printed form along with the required attachments via postal service to the Department for Foreigners in Poznań or one of our regional offices.

Submit the application no later than the last day of your legal stay in Poland. If you send the application via Poczta Polska, the date of submission will be the date it is posted at the post office.

The next step will be an in-person appointment to submit your fingerprints. During the visit, you will also complete other documents required to obtain a stamp in your passport.

Learn how to submit fingerprints.
Learn how to track the status of your case.

Documents needed to obtain a stamp in a passport (so-called formal defects):

• Application form - fill in the on-line application or fill in the application in accordance with the instructions in 1 copy (application to be downloaded)
• 4 photos,
• Copy of your valid travel document (original for inspection). In exceptional cases where you have no valid travel document and you cannot obtain it, you can present a different document confirming your identity.

Documents needed to grant the permit:

• A copy of the Pole’s Card with the original available for inspection,
• Documents confirming your willingness to settle in Poland, e.g. rent contract, employment contract, documents confirming studies, etc.

All documents are submitted in original / certified copy.

Read our guide

The permit is issued for an indefinite period. This permit entitles you to work without a work permit.

We will issue your residence card as soon as your permit is granted and you return us your Pole's Card.
Read How to receive residence card