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Temporary Residence Card by Work in Poland: Complete Guide 2026
Everything you need to know about the unified work and residence permit — eligibility, documents, deadlines and job changes.
What is a Temporary Residence and Work Permit in Poland?
The Temporary Residence and Work Permit (Zezwolenie na pobyt czasowy i pracę) is the most common document issued to foreigners. Instead of needing two separate documents, this single card grants you the legal right to both live and remain employed in Poland for a specific period — usually from 1 to 3 years.
Who is Eligible for a Work-Based TRC?
To apply for this permit in 2026, you must have valid employment in Poland that meets specific legal standards.
Minimum Salary Requirements in 2026
Your gross monthly salary must not be lower than the national minimum wage, regardless of working hours. For 2026, the expected minimum threshold is approximately 4,700–5,000 PLN gross (always check the current rate at the time of your application).
Types of Valid Employment Contracts
Labour Contract — the most stable form of employment, offering full social benefits and protection.
Mandate Contract — common, but must ensure the minimum salary threshold and include ZUS contributions.
Also gives the right to apply for TRC by Work.
Travel Document Requirements in 2026
To apply for a Polish TRC based on work, you must have one of the following:
Any reason of issue is accepted as a valid basis for application.
Cel Wydania 06 — a work visa issued specifically for employment purposes.
Required Documents for TRC by Work
To avoid delays, prepare a complete "case" for the inspector at the Urząd Wojewódzki (Voivodeship Office).
- ☑ 1 digital photo (684×883 pixels, JPG format)
- ☑ Passport: original for inspection + copies of ALL pages
- ☑ Employment contract: signed by both parties
- ☑ Health insurance: proof of ZUS registration (ZUS ZUA form) or private insurance
- ☑ Annex 1 (Załącznik nr 1): employer email required — employer receives Annex 1 by email and submits it online to the Immigration Office within 30 days
- ☑ Government fees confirmation: 440 PLN + 100 PLN
Step-by-Step Application Process
You must submit your application while you are still legally in Poland (on a valid visa or during visa-free days). From 27 April 2026 — ALL applications must be submitted online via MOS 2.0, except applications for Family Reunion where a family member is outside Poland.
Once you submit your documents, you will be called to provide biometric data (fingerprints). Important: from MOS 2.0, Migration Offices no longer issue a red stamp in the passport. Instead, you receive a PDF confirmation that your case was submitted — this works as proof of legal stay, the same as the yellow card for cases submitted before MOS 2.0.
Processing times vary by city. In major hubs like Warsaw or Wrocław — 6 to 10 months. Smaller cities may issue a decision in as few as 4 months. You can continue working for the employer mentioned in your application while waiting.
After a positive decision (decyzja), pay the card production fee and collect your TRC. The card is valid for the period stated in your permit decision.
Official Fees in 2026
| Fee Type | Amount | When to Pay |
|---|---|---|
| Stamp Duty (Application Fee) | 440 PLN | At the time of submission |
| Plastic Card Fee | 100 PLN | At the time of submission |
Changing Jobs with a Valid TRC
A work-based TRC is almost always tied to a specific employer. If you change jobs, your current card does not automatically allow you to work for the new company.
You must notify the Urząd about your resignation in writing within 15 days of leaving your job. Important: collect a resignation letter — without it you cannot inform the Migration Office.
You have 30 days from the day you stopped working to submit a new application (or amendment) for your new employer. Missing these deadlines results in cancellation of your residence card.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
No. The PDF confirmation (or red stamp for older cases) only legalises your stay in Poland. You cannot use it to travel to other Schengen countries (Germany, France, etc.) or to re-enter Poland if you leave. To travel and return, you must have a valid Visa, TRC, or unexpired visa-free days.
Yes. Once you have a TRC (or while waiting for one), your family members can apply for a residence permit based on Family Reunification — you must hold a TRC for 2 years straight to do this. If they are already legally in Poland, you can apply directly for a TRC as a dependent. You must also prove sufficient income and accommodation.
