Temporary vs. Permanent Residence in Poland: Which One Fits Your Needs?

The proper choice of residency status in Poland for foreigners, who are going to reside there for a long period of time, is very important. Poland offers two forms of legalization: temporary residence and permanent residence. Both of them have their own terms, privileges and limitations.

Having knowledge of the difference between the two, you can better match your choice with your professional and residential needs.

Novo Solution specializes in offering full-service support with the residency legalization procedure, with clients receiving support throughout all stages.

Temporary residence – who should opt for it?

Temporary stay is intended for foreigners who would wish to remain in Poland for a duration not longer than three years. It can be awarded in the following situations:

• employment
• education
• family reunification
• conducting business activity.

Requirements and documents necessary to obtain

An applicant for temporary stay must provide, among others:

• proof of the origin of the income in the form of employment
• contract or other documentation
• document confirming residence in Poland
• valid passport
• certificate of health insurance.

Limited duration of temporary stay

Temporary residence can be for a period of three years, after which it has to be renewed. On a shift in professional or personal conditions, a fresh application may have to be made.

Permanent residence – benefits and requirements

What is permanent residence and what is temporary residence?

Permanent residence grants foreigners a stronger legal position. It does not require renewal every so often as temporary residence requires and provides more rights to the foreigners, including:

• access to the labor market without additional permits
• use of the full range of social and educational benefits
• the opportunity to become citizens when some conditions are met.

What are the conditions to apply for permanent residence?

Those who meet one of the following conditions may apply for permanent residence:

• have Polish origins (e.g. Pole’s Card)
• have been lawfully residing in the EU for a longer period (long-term EU resident)
• have a Polish citizen spouse.

Benefits of obtaining permanent residence

• No residence certificates need to be renewed.
• Maximum legal stability in professional and personal life.
• Easier procedure for obtaining Polish citizenship.

Temporary and permanent residence compared – key differences

Formal requirements

The procedures for applying for both types of residence differ depending on the scope of documents and the length of time to fill out the applications. Temporary residence requires more specific documentation with regard to the actual professional situation.

Cost and timelines

• Temporary residence: Less costly, but the renewal process is long.
• Permanent residence: More initial fees, but no need to renew on a regular basis.

Benefits for different groups

• Employees: Temporary residence is best for those with fixed-term contracts.
• Students: It is better to start with temporary residence and then switch to permanent residence.
• Families: Permanent residence provides more stability to family members.

How does Novo Solution help legalize your stay?

Detailed assistance in filling documents

Novo Solution offers help in filling the required documents, excluding the possibility of official errors.

Consultation on choosing the best option

Novo Solution experts analyze the client’s case and suggest temporary or permanent residence as a better solution.

Representing clients in offices

The company is the representative of the clients when dealing with offices, which effectively streamlines the process and reduces stress about the process.

Summary

Temporary or permanent residence is each with advantages and disadvantages. The solution is the correct one based on the foreigner’s individual needs and situation. Novo Solution offers full support in legalizing the stay, simplifying formalities, and minimizing the risk of errors.

Choose partnership with Novo Solution and benefit from professional support today!

FAQ

What are the main distinctions between temporary and permanent residence?
Temporary residence has a limited time frame, while permanent residence grants legal certainty and no need to renew it.

How long does it take to get permanent residence?
The procedure can take a few months, depending on the completeness of the documents.

Can I apply for temporary and permanent residence at the same time?
No, the applications must be submitted separately and meet the appropriate formal requirements.