Temporary Residence Permit for Studies
Poland
Last updated: December 27, 2025
15 months (renewable)
$94
2-12 months
Medium
About this Visa
This visa lets you study full-time at a Polish university. You can live in Poland legally for your entire degree program. The government gives you a special card (called Karta Pobytu) that proves you have the right to stay. You can work up to 20 hours per week during school terms. During your 3-month summer break, you can work full-time. This makes it easier to support yourself while studying. The permit is still available and being used by thousands of international students. Poland recently made the rules stricter in 2025, but the visa itself is still active.
Key Benefits
- Live legally in Poland for your entire studies
- Work 20 hours per week during school (no extra permit needed)
- Work full-time during summer breaks (3 months)
- Free access to healthcare once insured
- Travel freely within Europe (Schengen Area)
- Path to permanent residence (after 5 years)
- Path to Polish citizenship (after 8+ years)
- Bring spouse and children to live with you
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Be enrolled full-time at accredited Polish university
- Have valid passport (valid 3+ months beyond stay)
- Prove enough money for living and tuition
- Have valid health insurance (€30,000+ coverage)
- No serious criminal record
- Speak English (B2 level) OR Polish (B1 level)
- Pass education verification if from outside EU/OECD
- Not previously expelled from Polish university
- Pay full year of tuition upfront
Financial Requirement
At least $195 USD per month for living expenses. Full year of tuition paid upfront. Return plane ticket ($50-600). Health insurance ($17-20 per month). Total for 15-month stay: approximately $3,250 USD.
Documents
- Valid passportValid 3+ months beyond your stay
- University acceptance letterSigned by Rector
- Proof of tuition paymentFull year paid upfront
- Bank statementsShowing enough money for entire stay
- Health insurance confirmation€30,000 minimum coverage
- Housing confirmationDorm contract or lease
- Passport-style photos4 photos
- Criminal record clearanceNo serious crimes
- School grades/transcriptIf continuing studies
- Document certification - ApostilleFor non-EU documents (new 2025)
- NAWA education verificationFor non-EU/OECD students only (new 2025)
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.