Step 1: Find a Seasonal Job in Poland
The first step is to secure a seasonal job offer from a Polish employer. Seasonal work typically includes time-limited roles in agriculture (e.g., harvesting) or tourism (e.g., hospitality during the summer or winter holidays).
Make sure that the job you’re applying for qualifies as seasonal work, as defined by Polish regulations—these are jobs tied to specific seasons and usually do not last longer than nine months in a calendar year.
Step 2: Apply for a Seasonal Work Permit
Once you have a job offer, you or your employer must apply for a seasonal work permit through the District Labour Office or online via praca.gov.pl.
Application Process:
- Form Submission: Fill out the official seasonal work permit application form, available both online and at the local Labour Office.
- Employer’s Role: The employer must submit documents such as the work contract and details of employment duration.
- Required Documents typically include:
- Completed application form
- Proof of application fee payment
- Valid passport and passport-sized photographs
- Copy of the work contract
- Proof of health insurance
- Employer’s registration documents (e.g., company deed, financial records)
- Labour Market Test (if applicable): For certain nationalities, a declaration from the starost (county official) may be required, proving that no Polish or EU worker was available for the job
Once the application is submitted, the Labour Office will review both your and your employer’s documents before issuing the permit.
Step 3: Apply for a Visa (If Required)
If you’re not already in Poland or don’t have a valid residence permit, you may need to apply for a Type D (D/05a) national visa for seasonal work.
Visa Application:
Apply at the nearest Polish Embassy or Consulate in your country of residence. You must book your appointment in advance using the e-Konsulat system.
Required Documents:
- Completed visa application form
- Valid passport
- Recent passport-sized photographs
- Proof of health insurance
- Proof of accommodation in Poland
- A copy of your seasonal work permit
- Evidence of regular and stable income or financial means to support your stay
Step 4: Apply for a Temporary Residence Permit (If Staying More Than 3 Months)
If your seasonal work extends beyond three months, you may need to apply for a temporary residence permit in Poland.
To be eligible, you must show:
- A valid seasonal work permit
- Proof of stable and regular income
- Health insurance coverage
- Documented accommodation in Poland
This permit allows you to legally stay in Poland beyond the initial visa duration and continue working under your seasonal employment contract.
Important Notes
- Labour Market Test: Citizens of Armenia, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova, Russia, and Ukraine are typically exempt from this requirement. Other nationalities may need proof that the employer could not find a suitable local or EU worker.
- Visa-Free Entry: Some nationalities can enter Poland without a visa, but a seasonal work permit is still required for legal employment.
- Timely Application: Seasonal job seekers are encouraged to begin the application process early, especially during peak employment seasons, as processing times can vary.
Poland’s seasonal work opportunities provide a valuable chance for international job seekers to gain employment, especially in the fields of agriculture and tourism. By following the proper procedures for obtaining a seasonal work permit and, if needed, a visa, you can ensure a smooth and legal entry into the Polish labor market. Always stay informed about the latest immigration rules and consult official resources or authorized agencies to guide you through the process.