Poland’s growing economy and job market attract workers from all over the world. If you hold a Temporary Residence Card (TRC) or visa issued by another European Union (EU) country, such as Romania or Croatia, you may wonder whether you can use it to work in Poland. This guide explains the rules and possibilities for working in Poland with a TRC or visa from another EU country.
Understanding EU Freedom of Movement
If you are a citizen of an EU/EEA country or Switzerland, you can work, live, and travel freely in Poland without needing additional work permits or visas. However, for non-EU/EEA nationals holding a TRC or visa from an EU country, the situation is different. While such a TRC allows you to travel within the Schengen Zone, it does not automatically grant you the right to work in Poland.
Can You Work in Poland with Another EU Country’s TRC or Visa?
The rules depend on your nationality and the type of residence or visa you hold:
- EU/EEA or Swiss Citizens
- If you are a citizen of Romania, Croatia, or any other EU/EEA country, you can work in Poland without restrictions. You do not need a work permit or additional documentation, but you must register your stay if you plan to remain in Poland for more than 90 days.
- Non-EU Nationals with an EU TRC
- A Temporary Residence Card issued by another EU country (e.g., Romania or Croatia) allows non-EU nationals to stay and work in the issuing country. However, it does not automatically grant work rights in Poland.
- You can enter Poland for up to 90 days within a 180-day period under Schengen rules but cannot legally work without obtaining a Polish work permit or a combined residence and work permit.
- EU Blue Card Holders
- If you hold an EU Blue Card issued by another EU country, you can apply to transfer your Blue Card to Poland after working for at least 18 months in the issuing country. During this process, you may be eligible to work in Poland under specific conditions.
- Long-Term EU Residence Permit Holders
- If you have an EU Long-Term Residence Permit issued by another EU country, you can move to Poland and apply for a residence permit based on your new purpose of stay (e.g., work). However, you must secure a job offer and meet Polish legal requirements before starting work.
How to Legally Work in Poland with Another EU TRC
If you are a non-EU national and wish to work in Poland, follow these steps:
- Secure a Job Offer
- Find an employer in Poland willing to hire you.
- Apply for a Work Permit
- Your Polish employer must apply for a work permit on your behalf. The work permit is specific to the job and employer.
- Apply for a Temporary Residence and Work Permit
- If you plan to stay in Poland long-term, you can apply for a combined residence and work permit, which allows you to live and work legally in Poland.
- Transitioning from an EU Blue Card
- If you hold an EU Blue Card, ensure you meet the 18-month requirement in the issuing country before applying to transfer your card to Poland.
Key Points to Remember
- Schengen Travel vs. Work Rights: A TRC or visa from an EU country allows you to travel within the Schengen Zone but does not grant work rights in Poland.
- Work Permit Requirement: Non-EU nationals must obtain a Polish work permit or a combined residence and work permit to work legally in Poland.
- EU Citizens: Nationals of EU/EEA countries can work freely in Poland without additional permits.
- Blue Card Transfers: If you hold an EU Blue Card, you can transfer it to Poland under certain conditions, allowing you to work legally.
Why Consider Working in Poland?
Poland offers numerous opportunities for international workers, especially in industries such as IT, manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare. The country also boasts a relatively low cost of living compared to other EU nations, making it an attractive destination for workers seeking professional growth and stability.
Conclusion
While an EU country’s TRC or visa grants non-EU nationals the freedom to travel within the Schengen Zone, it does not permit working in Poland without meeting specific legal requirements. EU/EEA citizens can work freely, but non-EU nationals must obtain the necessary work or residence permits. Understanding these rules ensures you can work and live in Poland legally and without complications.
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