If you're staying in Poland for more than 90 days, you need a Karta Pobytu — a residence permit that gives you the right to live, work, and travel freely within the Schengen Area.
This guide covers everything you need to know in 2026.
What Is Karta Pobytu?
Karta Pobytu is a plastic card (similar to an ID) that confirms your legal right to stay in Poland. It's valid for 1–3 years and can be renewed.
Without it, staying in Poland beyond your visa or visa-free period is illegal — and can result in deportation and a re-entry ban.
Who Needs to Apply?
You need Karta Pobytu if you are:
- A non-EU citizen staying in Poland for more than 90 days
- Working under a Polish employment contract (umowa o pracę)
- Running a registered business (JDG or Sp. z o.o.)
- Studying at a Polish university
- Married to a Polish citizen or EU national living in Poland
Types of Residence Permits
Most foreigners start with a temporary residence permit.
Required Documents
For a work-based permit you'll typically need:
- Completed application form (in Polish)
- Valid passport — must be valid at least 3 months past the permit end date
- Employment contract — minimum 4,666 PLN gross/month
- Proof of registered address in Poland
- Health insurance confirmation
- 2 biometric photos (35×45mm, white background)
- Application fee: 440 PLN + 50 PLN for the card
Documents in foreign languages must be translated by a sworn translator (tłumacz przysięgły).
How to Apply in 2026
⚡ From April 27, 2026, all applications are submitted exclusively online via the MOS 2.0 portal. Paper submissions are no longer accepted.
To use MOS 2.0 you need:
- A valid PESEL number
- An active Profil Zaufany account
- All documents scanned and ready to upload
Step-by-step:
- Log in to MOS with Profil Zaufany
- Fill in the application form
- Upload all required documents
- Pay the fee online (490 PLN total)
- Receive confirmation — this legalizes your stay during processing
How Long Does It Take?
- Official: 30 days
- Real: 3–6 months in Warsaw and major cities
After submitting, your passport receives a stamp that extends your legal stay throughout the waiting period. Don't travel outside Schengen without this stamp.
Most Common Mistakes
- Applying after your visa/permit expires — there's no grace period
- Wrong permit type for your situation (freelancer ≠ employee)
- Salary in contract below minimum (4,666 PLN gross)
- Expired or short-validity passport
- Incomplete document package
Need Help?
Legal Solution handles the entire Karta Pobytu process — from document prep to submission and follow-up. We have a 98% approval rate and appeal for free if rejected.
📱 Contact us on WhatsApp to get started.