1. Visa – what is it and what is it for?
A visa is an official statement of consent by the authorities of a given country for a specific person to enter and stay on its territory. It is issued for a specified period and purpose.
A foreigner coming to Poland can apply for a Schengen visa type “C” or a national visa type “D”. The Schengen visa allows a stay in Poland and other Schengen area countries. It permits one or multiple entries, up to 90 days within a 180-day period, counted from the day of the first entry.
The national visa “D” allows for a stay of more than three months, but not longer than one year. The validity period of the visa depends on the purpose of stay, which falls into one of 23 visa categories. The most popular include:
- D01 – issued for tourism purposes,
- D05a, D05b, D06 – issued for employment purposes,
- D09 – issued for starting studies,
- D14 – issued for medical treatment,
- D23 – issued for purposes other than those listed in the act.
2. Residence card – what is it and what is it for?
A residence card is a document that confirms the identity of a foreigner and allows them to legally live in Poland. It is issued on the basis of a temporary residence permit (for a minimum of 3 months and a maximum of 3 years), permanent residence (for an indefinite period), or long-term EU resident status (also for an indefinite period).
The residence card also facilitates travel within the Schengen area. Individuals with a residence card may travel legally within Schengen countries without the need for a visa for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. However, this does not grant the right to work.
3. Differences between a visa and a residence card
Although both a visa and a residence card entitle a person to stay in Poland, there are significant differences between these documents. It is important to remember that every foreigner needs a visa before their first entry into Poland, which allows legal entry into the country.
The most important differences between these documents include:
- Validity period and purpose of issuance:
A visa is a short-term document, usually for stays up to 90 days (Schengen visa) or up to one year (national visa). It is suitable for tourism, seasonal work, or short courses.
A residence card is intended for people planning a longer stay in Poland, such as for studies, permanent work, or family life. It is valid from several months up to a few years, and in the case of a permanent residence card – indefinitely.
- Entitlements and possibilities:
A visa allows entry and stay, but the right to work or study depends on its type (e.g. a tourist visa does not allow working). A residence card offers greater stability – it allows legal work without the need for a permit, studying, and easier travel within the Schengen zone (up to 90 days) without the need to obtain a visa.
- Application procedure and flexibility:
A visa requires submitting an application at the Consulate and presenting documents such as the purpose of travel and financial means. This process is required before the first arrival in Poland and is usually quite fast (waiting time for a decision is about 15 days).
A residence card involves a more complex procedure. It requires documenting the long-term purpose of stay (e.g. work or studies) and takes longer – sometimes several months.
A visa is time-limited – once it expires, leaving the country is necessary unless another document allows staying in Poland. A residence card offers a greater sense of stability, enabling the extension of stay in Poland without the need to leave the country.
4. Support in obtaining a visa and residence card
If you’re planning a longer stay in Poland, it’s worth applying for a residence card. We offer assistance both in obtaining a visa before entry and in the later process of applying for a residence card!
Our many years of experience allow us to understand that applying for a visa or residence card can be complicated, especially for those doing it for the first time. We help guide you through all the formalities – from filling out the application, through collecting the necessary documents, to contact with the offices. Thanks to our support, you save time and avoid stress, knowing that your case is handled by a team of experienced professionals who ensure that your documentation is correct and complete.
It doesn’t matter whether you’re just planning to enter Poland and need a visa, or you’re already here and want to legalize a longer stay – we’re here to help.
