Can I Change My Job on a Work Permit in Poland? Guide to Changing Employer, Residence and Work Permit Rules for Foreigners
Changing your job in Poland as a foreigner under a work permit might seem complicated — but with the right knowledge, it’s manageable. Whether you already live in the Republic of Poland or plan to relocate, understanding how to apply for a change, update your residence and work permit, or get a new permit is crucial to staying and working legally in Poland.
This guide is worth reading because it provides reliable, up-to-date (2025) information on your rights and responsibilities when switching employers, how to get a work permit, and what documents to submit to the Polish immigration office. It also explains the difference between a residence permit, residence card, and temporary residence and work permit. Avoid errors that could lead to deportation or losing the right to stay in Poland — and keep your employment legal.
What is a Work Permit in Poland and Who Needs One?
A work permit is an official document issued by a Polish voivode that allows a foreigner to legally perform work in Poland. It’s issued for a specific employer, job position, and place of work. Foreigners from outside the EU, EEA, or Switzerland typically need one to work legally in Poland.
There are several types of work permits, including:
- Type A – for foreigners employed by a Polish employer
- Type B – for board members
- Type C–E – for intra-corporate transfers or delegations
- Seasonal work permit – for temporary/seasonal jobs
Many foreigners also receive a temporary residence and work permit that combines both residence and work rights in one decision.
Can a Foreigner Change Jobs in Poland Without a New Permit?
No, in most cases, you cannot change your job or employer without obtaining a new permit. The residence and work permit is tied to the specific employer and conditions mentioned in the original application.
Changing employers is considered a change of permit, and you must apply for a new one. Exceptions exist only for those who:
- Hold a permanent residence permit
- Hold a long-term resident’s EU residence permit
- Are family members of EU/EEA/Swiss citizens
- Have a residence permit for the purpose of studies or scientific research (with open market access)
Even if you hold a residence card, your right to work in Poland is often linked to the current employer listed on your decision.
What Happens If You Change Your Employer on a Residence and Work Permit?
If you change your employer without updating your residence and work permit, you risk working illegally. Since your residence permit is based on the entrusting work to a specific employer, a change without authorization invalidates the terms of your stay.
This may result in:
- Cancellation of your permit
- Losing your right to stay in Poland
- Being denied future permits
- Expulsion and re-entry bans
That’s why it’s essential to apply for a change as soon as possible — ideally before your contract ends with the current employer.
How to Apply for a Change of Employer on a Work Permit?
To legally switch to a new employer, you must apply for a change of your temporary residence and work permit or submit a new permit application. The process involves:
- Notifying the voivode within 15 working days of end of work
- Submitting a complete application for a change
- Waiting for the decision on granting a temporary residence and work permit within 30 days (typically longer in practice)
You must not start working for the new employer until your permit in Poland has been updated, unless you are covered by exceptions (e.g., open market access or blue card holders).
What Documents Do You Need to Change Jobs Legally in Poland?
To change your job, prepare and submit the following:
- Application for a residence and work permit (with updated details)
- Declaration of entrusting work to a foreigner by your new employer
- Copy of your valid residence card
- Proof of termination from the current employer
- Proof of accommodation and minimum remuneration for work
- Confirmation of legal stay (visa or previous permit)
- Updated job offer and description of job position
Documents should be submitted to the office or place of residence (Voivodeship Office) relevant to your location in Poland.
How Does Losing the Job Affect Your Right to Stay in Poland?
Losing the job under a residence and work permit in Poland affects your residence permit, because the granting a permit was tied to that employment. You must:
- Notify the immigration office within 15 working days
- Find a job and submit a new application for a temporary residence within 30 calendar days
If you fail to meet the deadline, your stay becomes illegal. It’s important to act quickly — especially since there’s no grace period that allows you to stay and work beyond that time.
However, you can work while waiting for a new decision if your previous permit is still valid and your application was submitted in time.
How to Apply for a New Work Permit After Changing Jobs?
If you’re changing jobs completely, you may need to:
- Apply for a new temporary residence and work permit
- Submit all required documentation again, even if you recently applied
- Make sure the new work permit reflects the new employer, job description, and place of work
In some cases, the new permit application can be expedited if you clearly justify the change of employer and show that you still meet the requirements for employment in Poland.
Residence Card and Changing Employers — What You Should Know
A residence card is proof of your residence permit but does not itself grant the right to work unless explicitly stated. If you switch to another employer, your residence card may need to be reissued, especially if your residence and work permit within changed significantly.
You should also be aware that residence and work permit within Poland is employer-specific unless noted otherwise in your decision. This means that work on the basis of a previous card is not automatically transferable.
Always consult the issuing authority before assuming you can continue employment under your old card.
Work While Waiting: Can You Start a New Job Before Receiving a New Permit?
Only under limited conditions can a foreigner begin work while waiting for a new residence and work permit:
- You submitted your application for a change before your previous permit expired
- You have a valid visa or residence card
- The new employer submitted a declaration of entrusting work to a foreigner
Be cautious: working without authorization could lead to cancellation of both your residence permit and your future eligibility for legal employment.
Do You Qualify for a Long-Term Residence Permit in Poland?
If you’ve lived in Poland for five continuous years, you may qualify for a:
- Permanent residence permit
- Long-term resident’s EU residence permit
These allow you to work for a specific employer or any employer without the need to reapply for a new work permit each time. They also provide stronger protection in case of loss of a job or change in the temporary residence.
To apply, you must:
- Stay legally in Poland for at least 5 years
- Pass a Polish language exam
- Prove stable income and residence in Poland
This option is best suited for those looking to settle permanently in the territory of Poland.
Summary: Key Things to Remember When Changing Jobs in Poland
- You cannot change your job without permission if you hold a temporary residence and work permit
- Always apply for a change or a new permit before starting a new job
- Notify the immigration office within 15 working days after losing a job
- Submit a new application within 30 days
- Your residence card may not remain valid for work with a different employer
- You may work while waiting only under specific legal conditions
- Permanent residence permit and blue card holders have more freedom
- Working without a permit can lead to loss of status, fines, or deportation
- Track deadlines and maintain communication with your Polish employer and voivodeship office
What is time2legal?
Administration does not have to be an obstacle in realizing your travel plans and taking up work in Poland. With the support of experienced professionals, the whole process can be quick, trouble-free, and successful. Don’t risk delays and problems – trust the professionals and enjoy a smooth visa process. We are a Polish company that guarantees foreigners legal entry and stay in Poland. Our team consists of people from Eastern Europe and the Philippines, so we are well acquainted with the concerns of people intending to work in Poland – we will help you with everything – contact us and enjoy the opportunity to work and earn in Poland, like many other foreigners.
Time2legal is a Polish company specializing in comprehensive legal assistance for foreigners, making it easier for them to obtain legal residence and work in Poland. The team consists of individuals from Eastern Europe and the Philippines, which allows for a better understanding of clients’ needs.
Services offered:
- Residence Permit: Assistance in obtaining a residence permit that ensures legal stay in Poland.
- Work Visa for Poland: Support in the application process for a work visa, allowing for legal employment.
- Student Visa: Guidance in acquiring a student visa for those planning to study in Poland.
- Consultations: Personalized advice on the legalization of stay and work.
- Administrative Support:
- Appeals Against Official Decisions: Assistance in preparing and submitting appeals against unfavorable decisions.
- Support During Fingerprinting Appointments: Help with organizing and accompanying clients during fingerprinting procedures.
- Case Status Verification: Monitoring the progress of the application process.
- Preparation of Official Documents: Drafting necessary official correspondence.
With the team’s experience and expertise, Time2legal ensures professional support at every stage of the legalization process for residence and work in Poland.
P.S.
The company time2work is a job agency that can help you find employment in Poland – we recommend it! Check job offers in Poland
