Poland has become one of the top destinations for Indian workers in Europe. With a growing economy, demand for skilled workers, and a path to EU residency — thousands of Indians make the move every year. Here is exactly how to do it legally.
Step 1: Get a Job Offer in Poland
Before you can apply for a work visa, your Polish employer must obtain a work permit (Zezwolenie na Prace) for you from the Voivode office. This is the employer's responsibility — not yours. It takes 1-3 months.
- Your employer submits the permit application to the local Voivode
- They must prove no suitable local candidate was available (labour market test)
- Once approved, you receive the permit number — needed for your visa application
Step 2: Apply for a National Visa (Type D)
With the work permit in hand, you apply for a Polish National Visa (D type) at the Polish consulate or embassy in India. Locations:
- Polish Embassy in New Delhi
- Polish Consulate General in Mumbai
- Polish Consulate in Chennai (honorary)
Documents for Visa Application
- Completed visa application form
- Valid passport (at least 6 months validity beyond intended stay)
- 2 passport photos
- Work permit issued by Polish Voivode
- Employment contract signed by employer
- Proof of accommodation in Poland
- Health insurance for the duration of stay
- Visa fee payment confirmation
Visa Processing Time and Costs
- Processing time: 15-30 working days
- Visa fee: approximately 80 EUR
- Type D visa allows stay up to 1 year, multiple entry
Step 3: Apply for Karta Pobytu After Arrival
Once you arrive in Poland and start working, you should apply for Karta Pobytu (temporary residence permit) within 3 months. This allows you to stay beyond the visa period and is the foundation of your legal life in Poland.
Tip: Start the Karta Pobytu application as soon as you arrive — processing takes 60-90 days.
Navigating Polish immigration from India alone can be overwhelming — that is where Legal Solution has 6 years of experience helping foreigners get legal status in Poland — 3,000+ cases, 98% approval rate.