Permits: key aspects of obtaining and using them in Poland

In Poland permit documents play an important role in regulating various types of activities, whether it be business, construction, work, or residence. Understanding the process of obtaining and using such documents is a key aspect for successful business operations in this country. 

Main types of permit documents

There are several main categories of permit documents required for various types of activities in Poland:

• Work permits — documents required for foreigners for legal employment.
• Residence permits — residence types necessary for long-term stay in the country.
• Licenses and permits for business — documents required for conducting certain types of entrepreneurial activities.
• Building permits — documents necessary for construction, reconstruction, and other construction works.

Work permits

A work permit is required for the employment of foreigners in Poland. The main aspects of obtaining such a permit include:

1. Types of work permits
   • Type A — for foreigners working under an employment contract with a Polish employer.
   • Type B — for enterprise managers staying in Poland for more than 6 months within a year.
   • Type C, D, and E — for various types of business trips and travel.
2. The procedure for obtaining a permit
   • Submission of an application by the employer to the relevant voivodeship office (Urząd Wojewódzki).
   • Provision of necessary documents, including a letter of intent, employment contract, and proof of qualifications.
   • Payment of the administrative fee and waiting for the application review.
3. Validity period and extension
   • Work permits are usually issued for a period of up to 3 years.
   • Possibility of extending the permit after the expiration date.

Residence permits

Foreigners planning a long-term stay in Poland must obtain a residence permit (ВНЖ). The main types and procedures for obtaining a residence permit include:

1. Types of residence permits
   • Temporary residence permit (Karta pobytu czasowego) — for work, study, family reunification, and other purposes.
   • Permanent residence permit (Karta stałego pobytu) — for long-term residence based on special circumstances.
   • Long-term EU resident (Karta rezydenta długoterminowego UE) — for individuals residing in Poland for more than 5 years.
2. Procedure for obtaining a residence permit
   • Submission of the application to the voivodeship office at the place of residence.
   • Provision of necessary documents, including passport, photographs, health insurance, and proof of purpose of stay.
   • Payment of the administrative fee and waiting for the application review.
3. Validity period and extension
   • The temporary residence permit is issued for a period of up to 3 years.
   • Possibility of extension or obtaining a permanent residence permit after the expiration date.

Licenses and permits for business

To conduct certain types of business activities in Poland, obtaining licenses and permits is required. The main aspects include:

1. Types of licenses and permits
   • Licenses for retail sale of alcohol.
   • Permits for activities in the field of transport and logistics.
   • Licenses for providing financial services and insurance.
   • Permits for medical and educational activities.
2. Procedure for obtaining licenses
   • Submission of an application to the relevant authority regulating a specific type of activity.
   • Provision of necessary documents, including the company's registration and financial data.
   • Passing inspections and obtaining a license or permit.
3. Validity period and extension
   • Licenses and permits may be issued for various terms, depending on the type of activity.
   • Possibility of extension upon expiration, provided all conditions are met.

Building permits

To carry out construction work in Poland, it is necessary to obtain construction permits. Key aspects include:

1. Types of construction permits
   • Building permit (Pozwolenie na budowę) — for new constructions and major renovations.
   • Permit for minor construction works (Zgłoszenie robót budowlanych) — for small repair and construction works.
2. The procedure for obtaining a permit
   • Submission of an application to the construction office (Urząd Budowlany).
   • Provision of architectural plans, technical documentation, and approvals.
   • Waiting for the application review and obtaining the permit.
3. Validity period and extension
   • Construction permits are issued for the duration necessary to complete the project.
   • Possibility of extension if necessary.

Obtaining and using permit documents in Poland is an important aspect for conducting business, working, and residing in the country. Knowledge of procedures and requirements will help avoid delays and problems in the process of obtaining the necessary documents. Proper documentation and compliance with all conditions will allow for successful operations in Poland and to take advantage of all the opportunities the country offers.

«Thorough preparation and adherence to all procedures when obtaining permit documents in Poland will help significantly simplify the process and avoid potential difficulties.»

Good luck in obtaining permit documents and successfully adapting in Poland!