Which residence application do you need to file?
There are more than a dozen types of permits. Each has different conditions, different documents and a different fee. Choose the situation that matches yours — you'll get step-by-step instructions.
You can file the application yourself. But it's worth knowing what a legal adviser gives you.
No one forces you to use help. The form in the MOS system is designed so you can fill it in on your own, and this page will walk you through it step by step.
A legal adviser cannot get you a positive decision — no one can promise that, because the office decides the outcome. What they do give you are three things you don't have when you act alone:
- they are responsible for the formal correctness of the application — the thing that most often trips a case up;
- they receive every letter from the office, because the office must deliver correspondence to the authorised representative — you won't miss a summons or a deadline;
- they make sure the office keeps its own deadlines, and when a case stalls for months, they know how to push it forward.
Check who you're entrusting your case to. There are people on the market who present themselves as legal advisers even though they have no qualifications or professional liability — and a foreigner who doesn't know the Polish system has no way to verify this. Ask for the name and details of the company, a written contract, and who exactly will handle your case. A reliable legal adviser will answer this without hesitation.
Start here
If you don't know what to choose, answer three questions.
- 01
Why are you in Poland?
You work — the "Work" section. You study or are learning — "Study". You have family here — "Family".
- 02
How long have you been living in Poland?
Less than 5 years — you apply for a temporary residence permit. More than 5 years legally — check permanent residence or EU long-term resident status.
- 03
Do you have a specific employer in Poland?
If yes, and you want one decision to cover both residence and work — your application is a temporary residence and work permit. This is the most common choice.
Not every application is filed online
Most residence applications have been filed exclusively electronically in the MOS system since 27 April 2026. But four types of cases still go on paper — they are marked below with an amber label. An application to replace only the residence card is also filed on paper.
Work
Choose this if you work in Poland or have a contract with an employer.
Temporary residence and work
For you, if you work for a Polish employer and want one decision to cover both residence and the right to work. The so-called single permit. The most commonly filed application.
Work in a highly qualified profession
For you, if you have higher education or long professional experience and a sufficiently high salary. The so-called EU Blue Card.
Seasonal work
For you, if you work for part of the year — in agriculture, horticulture, hospitality or catering.
Business activity
For you, if you run a company in Poland, sit on a company's management board, are a general partner or a proxy — and don't work under an employment contract.
Intra-corporate transfer (ICT)
For you, if a foreign company is transferring you to its branch in Poland — as management staff, a specialist or a trainee. This also covers long-term mobility.
Study
Choose this if you study, are learning, or conduct research.
Studies
For you, if you study at a Polish university. The attachment to the application is signed electronically by the institution running the studies.
Internship or volunteering
For you, if you're doing an internship or volunteering in Poland. The attachment is signed by the organiser.
Scientific research
For you, if you have a contract with a research institution to conduct research in Poland.
Family
Note: if the person the application concerns is outside Poland — the application is filed on paper.
Family reunification — when you're in Poland
For you, if you're joining family who live in Poland, and you're already in Poland yourself.
Family reunification — when you're abroad
For you, if the person the application concerns is outside Poland. You cannot file this application in MOS.
Marriage to a Polish citizen
For you, if your husband or wife holds Polish citizenship and you're in Poland.
You've lived in Poland for a long time
These permits give a stronger status than temporary residence.
Permanent residence
For you, if you hold a Karta Polaka, have Polish origin, have been married to a Polish citizen for at least 3 years, or have refugee status. A residence card for 10 years.
EU long-term resident
For you, if you've lived in Poland legally and continuously for 5 years, have a stable income, and know Polish at level B1. A residence card for 5 years.
Short-term residence
For you, if you must appear in person before a Polish office or court, or an exceptional personal situation is keeping you in Poland.
Fees
The amounts are the same across Poland. Only the account numbers differ.
| What you're paying for | How much |
|---|---|
| Temporary residence and work · highly qualified · ICT | 440 zł |
| Temporary residence — other cases | 340 zł |
| Temporary residence — seasonal work | 170 zł |
| Temporary residence — short-term residence | 85–340 zł |
| Permanent residence · EU long-term resident | 640 zł |
| Residence card — separate transfer | 100 zł |
| Residence card — child under 16, pupil, student | 50 zł |
| Power of attorney | 17 zł |
Always two transfers
The stamp duty for the permit and, separately, 100 zł for issuing the residence card. You get the account numbers from the website of the voivodeship office handling your case. You cannot pay the fee within MOS itself.
The most common reason for wasted time and money
Filing the application under the wrong procedure. The office will not switch it to the right one for you — it will issue a refusal or leave the case unexamined. You lose the fee and several months, and often the legality of your stay along with them.
Not sure which application is yours?
Write and tell us your situation. We'll check it before you pay and before you file.
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