Temporary Residence Permit (Karta Pobytu)
A crucial guide for non-EU/EEA students on applying for the Temporary Residence Permit (TRP) or Karta Pobytu to legalize their stay in Poland beyond their initial visa.
KARTA POBYTU / RESIDENCE CARD
Nazwisko / Surname: KOWALSKI
Imię / Name: JAN
Data urodzenia / Date of Birth: 01.01.2000
Rodzaj zezwolenia / Type of Permit: POBYT CZASOWY / STUDENT
The Temporary Residence Permit card (Karta Pobytu) is your official ID and proof of legal stay in Poland
What is a Temporary Residence Permit?
The Temporary Residence Permit (TRP), commonly known as Karta Pobytu, is an official document confirming your right to legally reside in Poland for a specified period. For non-EU/EEA students, it's typically required if your studies extend beyond the validity of your initial national visa (Type D).
- Who Needs It: Primarily non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens planning to stay in Poland longer than their visa allows (usually > 3 months, or > 90 days within 180 days for Schengen visas).
- Purpose for Students: Usually granted for the purpose of full-time university studies.
- The Card: Acts as your ID card within Poland and allows travel within the Schengen Area (usually up to 90 days in any 180-day period).
Key Features of Karta Pobytu
- Validity: Typically 1-3 years for students (often aligned with your study program)
- Format: Credit card-sized ID with your photo, personal data, and biometric features
- Rights: Legal stay, freedom to travel in Schengen, ability to work part-time
- Benefits: Facilitates opening bank accounts and accessing various services
Important Timeline Consideration
Application Timing & Location
Timing is critical for the residence permit application. You must apply while your current legal stay (visa or previous permit) is still valid.
- When to Apply: Apply before your current visa or residence permit expires. It is strongly recommended to start the process at least 2-3 months in advance due to long waiting times for appointments and processing.
- Legal Stay During Processing: Submitting a complete application before your current legal stay expires generally makes your stay legal until a final decision is issued (confirmed by a stamp in your passport).
- Where to Apply: At the Department for Foreigners (Wydział Spraw Cudzoziemców) of the Voivodeship Office (Urząd Wojewódzki) relevant to your place of residence (Meldunek).
Don't Wait Until the Last Minute!
Major Voivodeship Offices in Poland
Apply at the Voivodeship Office in the city where you have registered your address. Each office has specific procedures and appointment systems.
Required Documents Overview
The document list is extensive and MUST be verified with your local Voivodeship office. This is a general guide to help you prepare.
Essential Documents
Application Form
Completed and signed application for a temporary residence permit
Photographs
4 recent, biometric, color photographs (35x45mm, light background)
Passport
Valid travel document (passport) - original and copies of all pages with stamps/visas
Study & Financial Proof
Proof of Study
Certificate from the university confirming admission/enrollment, study period, and tuition payment status
Proof of Sufficient Funds
Bank statements, scholarship confirmation, or sponsor letter showing at least ~776 PLN/month for your entire stay
Proof of Application Fee Payment
Receipt for paying the stamp duty (opłata skarbowa) - typically 340 PLN
Accommodation & Insurance
Health Insurance
Proof of valid health insurance covering your stay in Poland (Polish NFZ or private insurance meeting requirements)
Proof of Accommodation
Dormitory confirmation or rental agreement (umowa najmu) plus registration of address (meldunek)
Document Preparation Tips
All documents not in Polish must be translated by a certified translator (tłumacz przysięgły).
Bring both originals and copies of all documents. The office will verify originals and keep copies.
ALWAYS refer to the official website of your local Voivodeship office for the most up-to-date list.
Application Process Steps
The application process for a Temporary Residence Permit in Poland involves several stages, from preparation to collection of your card.
1. Book Appointment
Schedule an appointment online or via phone at the correct Voivodeship office. Do this EARLY - waiting times can be 1-2 months.
2. Submit Application & Documents
Attend your appointment, submit the complete application form and all required documents.
3. Biometrics
Your fingerprints will be taken during the appointment and your photograph may be verified.
4. Waiting Period
The office reviews your application. This can take 2-6 months. They may request additional documents.
5. Decision
You will be notified of the decision (pozytywna - positive, negatywna - negative) by post or electronically.
6. Card Collection
If approved, you pay a fee for the card itself (~50 PLN) and will be informed when your Karta Pobytu is ready for collection.
Important Notes About the Process
• The entire process from application to card collection typically takes 3-7 months.
• The Voivodeship office may request additional documents during the review period.
• You will receive a stamp in your passport confirming your legal stay during processing.
• Most communications will be in Polish; consider bringing a Polish-speaking friend.
Residence Permit Application Tips
Start the application process AS EARLY AS POSSIBLE - ideally 2-3 months before your current visa expires.
Book your appointment at the Voivodeship office well in advance; waiting times can be very long.
Gather ALL required documents meticulously. Missing items are a common cause of delays/rejection.
Ensure all documents are originals or notarized copies, and translations are certified.
Check the specific requirements of your local Voivodeship office, as procedures can vary slightly.
Keep copies of absolutely everything you submit.
Be patient; the process can take several months.
Respond promptly to any requests for additional information from the office.
Get Expert Help
Common Permit Questions
Have More Questions?
If you have specific questions about your residence permit application or status, it's best to:
Useful Links & Next Steps
Related Qogent guide
External official resource
Related Qogent guide
Related Qogent guide
Related Qogent guide
Planning Your Next Steps
After securing your residence permit, focus on:
Settling into your accommodationMake sure your living space is comfortable and you understand all apartment rules and payments.
Setting up banking and financesA Polish bank account makes daily finances much easier. Your residence permit will help with opening one.
Exploring your university and surroundingsFamiliarize yourself with your campus, find student resources, and discover your neighborhood.
Managing Finances and Banking?
Once your legal status is settled, focus on practicalities like opening a bank account and managing your finances in Poland.
Banking Essentials Guide