📌 Residence Card 2025 in Poland: What Documents Do You Need?
- Polskie Słowo
- May 19
- 2 min read
Dreaming of living, studying, or working in Poland legally and securely? Then you’ll definitely need a Residence Card (Karta Pobytu) — an official document confirming a foreigner's right to stay temporarily or permanently in Poland.
In 2025, the application process for the Residence Card has been slightly updated. That’s why we, the team at Polskie Słowo Polish Language School, have prepared a complete and up-to-date guide: what documents are required, how to apply, and what you should know before visiting the voivodeship office (urząd).
✅ What is a Residence Card?
The Residence Card allows for temporary (usually 1–3 years) or permanent stay in Poland. It gives foreigners the legal right to:
work without needing a work permit;
study at Polish schools and universities;
open bank accounts;
travel within the Schengen Area;
apply for visas for family members.
📄 What Documents Are Required in 2025?
The list of required documents may slightly vary depending on your reason for staying (e.g., work, study, family), but here is the general list:
Completed PNP application form (wniosek o zezwolenie na pobyt czasowy) — in Polish, using capital letters;
Copies of your passport (all pages) — three copies;
5 recent color photos — 35x45 mm, left profile, no older than 6 months;
A valid basis for residence:
for workers — employment contract;
for students — zaświadczenie o przyjęciu na studia (confirmation of admission);
for family members — marriage certificate;
Proof of payment for the government fee;
Health insurance valid for the entire stay;
Biometrics — fingerprints (given at the urząd);
Bank statement showing financial means — at least 800 PLN per month per person;
Proof of accommodation — rental agreement, dorm certificate, etc.;
Birth certificate (if needed), translated into Polish by a sworn translator.
ℹ️ Important: Requirements may differ depending on the voivodeship. Always check the local urząd before applying.
🧾 How Much Does It Cost?
Type of Service | Fee (PLN) |
Temporary Residence Card | 340 zł |
Permanent Residence Card | 680 zł |
Plastic Card Issuance Fee | 50 zł |
First Replacement (lost card) | 100 zł |
Additional Replacement | 200 zł |
💸 50% Discount Available For:
students and school pupils;
minors (under 16 on the date of application);
individuals in financial hardship.
🆘 What If You Lose Your Residence Card?
You must notify the urząd within 3 days. They will issue a certificate confirming the loss. This certificate remains valid until you receive a new card (but no longer than 2 months).
✍️ Final Thoughts: Don’t Delay!
Getting a Residence Card isn’t just about legality — it’s your step toward a stable, comfortable, and secure future in Poland.
And to make the process easier and faster, start with learning Polish. Courses at Polskie Słowo aren’t just grammar lessons — they’re your guide to living and thriving in Poland.
Comments