Foreigner’s work in Poland 2026 — work permit, employer’s declaration and EU Blue Card

Legal work of a foreigner in Poland requires two things: a residence title and a basis for performing work. Here are the main paths in 2026.

Work permit

The basic document for an employer hiring a foreigner. It comes in types A to E, depending on the situation (e.g. work for a Polish employer, posting, board member). The application is filed by the employer at the voivodeship office.

Declaration on entrusting work

A simplified path for citizens of selected countries — it allows taking up work for a shorter period without a full permit. The declaration is entered into the register by the district labour office.

EU Blue Card

A solution for highly qualified specialists — it combines residence and work, offers favourable conditions and mobility within the EU. The rules have changed in recent years, so check the current state.

Single residence-and-work permit

A foreigner living in Poland usually applies for a temporary residence and work permit — a single application covering both aspects. On its basis they receive a residence card.

Formalities — online via MOS

Applications are increasingly filed electronically through the Case Handling Module (MOS) at cudzoziemcy.gov.pl; employment rules are also at the Office for Foreigners. Remember that the office treats attached documents as scans — only copies certified by a lawyer (radca prawny) or a notary have the force of a document.

Hiring a foreigner or looking for legal work in Poland? Book a consultation with a Warsaw law firm — we will choose the right basis and the full set of documents.