The Polish work permit system offers several categories designed for different employment situations. The Type A work permit is the most common, issued to foreigners employed by an entity based in Poland. Here is everything you need to know about obtaining a Type A work permit in 2026.
Who Needs a Type A Work Permit?
A Type A work permit is required for any foreign national who will be employed under a contract by a company registered in Poland. This applies to most standard employment relationships. Citizens of EU/EEA countries and Switzerland are exempt from this requirement.
Certain categories of workers may also be exempt, including graduates of Polish universities who hold a valid temporary residence permit, and holders of a Pole’s Card (Karta Polaka) in some circumstances.
Application Process Step by Step
The employer initiates the process by submitting an application to the Voivode (provincial governor) of the region where the company is registered. Key documents include a completed application form, the employment contract or job offer, proof of the company’s registration and financial standing, and documentation of the labor market test.
The labor market test involves posting the position at the local labor office (Powiatowy UrzÄ…d Pracy) for a minimum of 14 days to verify that no suitable Polish or EU candidate is available. Certain occupations on the shortage list are exempt from this requirement.
Processing Time and Fees
As of 2026, the standard processing time for a Type A work permit is 30 days for straightforward cases, though complex cases may take up to 60 days. The application fee is 100 PLN for permits valid up to 3 months and 200 PLN for permits exceeding 3 months.
Duration and Renewal
A Type A work permit can be issued for a maximum of 3 years. For temporary agency workers, the maximum duration is 18 months. Renewal applications should be submitted at least 30 days before the current permit expires to ensure continuity of legal employment.