Are you planning to stay in Poland for an extended period, either for work, study, or to reunite with family? Understanding how to apply for a Temporary Residence Card (TRC) can be crucial for a foreigner looking to navigate the immigration process smoothly. This guide will explain everything about the TRC, including its purpose, application process, costs, and the rights it provides. Whether you’re just starting out or preparing for your application, this article will give you the insights you need.

What is a TRC and who needs It?

A Temporary Residence Card (TRC) is an official document issued to foreigners who wish to stay in Poland for more than three months. This card serves as proof that the holder has a temporary residence permit, allowing them to stay in Poland for an extended period for purposes like work, study, or family reunification. The TRC is an essential document for foreigners seeking to establish themselves in Poland for more than just a short visit.

Foreigners planning to stay in Poland for employment or education will need a TRC. It serves as an identification card and provides legal residency status, which is vital for accessing various services within Poland, such as opening a bank account or registering for health insurance.

Understanding the temporary residence permit

The temporary residence permit is the authorization that allows a foreigner to live legally in Poland for more than three months. Once a permit is granted, the foreigner receives a residence card that acts as proof of their legal stay. The permit can be granted for a variety of reasons, including employment, education, or family reunification, and is usually issued for a period ranging from several months to a maximum of three years.

The permit is granted based on the specific purpose of the stay, such as an employment agreement, admission to a Polish educational institution, or family circumstances. Having a temporary residence permit provides foreigners with stability, allowing them to live, work, and travel within the territory of the Republic of Poland without additional visas.

How to apply for a TRC in Poland?

To apply for a Temporary Residence Card, foreigners must submit an application to the local wojewódzki urząd (Voivodeship Office). This application must be filed in person, as fingerprints are required for identification purposes. It is critical to submit your application later than on the last day of your current legal stay in Poland.

The application process requires several supporting documents, such as proof of the purpose of stay (e.g., an employment contract or university admission letter), proof of accommodation, valid health insurance, and a recent photograph. The application must be submitted in Polish, and any documents in a foreign language must be translated by a certified translator.

Step-by-Step application for a Temporary Residence Permit

1. Gather Required Documents: The first step in the application for a temporary residence permit is to gather all the necessary documents. This includes a valid passport, proof of health insurance, proof of sufficient financial means, and documents confirming the purpose of your stay.
2. Submit the Application: The application must be submitted in person to the wojewódzki urząd relevant to your place of residence. During submission, your fingerprints will be taken as part of the identification process.
3. Pay the Application Fee: The cost of applying for a TRC is 440 PLN. The fee must be paid at the time of submitting the application.
4. Receive Confirmation: After submission, you will receive a stamp in your passport, which confirms that your application is being processed. This stamp allows you to remain in Poland legally until a decision is made, even if your current visa expires.
5. Await Decision: The processing time can vary, but it usually takes several weeks to a few months. During this time, ensure that you stay updated with any requests for additional documents or information from the urząd.

Eligibility criteria for TRC

To be eligible for a temporary residence permit, applicants must fulfill specific requirements based on the purpose of their stay. Common reasons include employment, studies, or joining a family member residing in Poland. Applicants must also demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to cover their living expenses in Poland without relying on social welfare.

Applicants must also have valid health insurance and accommodation in Poland. If the purpose of the stay is employment, the employer must provide a statement confirming the employment details, and the applicant must submit an employment agreement as part of the application.

Costs involved in the TRC application

The cost of the TRC application includes a 440 PLN fee for processing the application and an additional 17,00 PLN for the power of attorney (if it is necessary). In some cases, applicants may need to cover additional costs, such as translation of documents into Polish and obtaining certified copies of essential documents.

Payment must be made at the time of application submission, and it is important to confirm that all fees have been paid to avoid delays in processing. Bank payment receipts should be kept as proof of payment and attached to the application.

Documents required for a TRC application

When applying for a Temporary Residence Card, several documents must be submitted to support the application. These include:

• Valid Passport: The passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the planned stay in Poland.
• Proof of Accommodation: Documents showing where you will be living during your stay, such as a rental contract or confirmation from your host.
• Health Insurance: Proof of valid health insurance that will cover you during your stay in Poland.
• Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements or other documents confirming that you have enough funds to cover the costs of living in Poland.
• Photograph: A recent color photograph that meets official requirements.

Validity of the temporary residence card

A temporary residence permit is typically issued for a period ranging from several months to a maximum of three years, depending on the purpose of the stay. The validity of the residence card will align with the duration for which the permit is granted. For example, if you are employed on a two-year contract, the TRC will generally be valid for the same duration.

It is crucial to be aware of the expiration date of your residence card. The TRC must be renewed before it expires to ensure continuous legal stay in Poland. Failure to renew on time may result in the loss of legal status and the requirement to leave Poland.

What happens when your TRC expires?

When your TRC nears its expiration, you must take steps to either renew it or leave Poland. If you plan to continue staying in Poland, you need to submit a new application for renewal well before the expiration date of your current permit.

If your permit expires and you have not submitted an application for renewal, you will be required to leave Poland, and this may affect your ability to return in the future. It’s advisable to start the renewal process at least 90 days before your current TRC expires.

Summary: Key Takeaways

• A Temporary Residence Card (TRC) is a vital document for foreigners planning an extended stay in Poland.
• The application for a temporary residence permit must be submitted in person, and fingerprints are required.
• Ensure you gather all required documents, including proof of accommodation, health insurance, and financial means, before submitting your application.
• Start the renewal process well in advance of the expiration date to maintain your legal stay in Poland.
• In exceptional situations, the governor may grant a permit on a basis that considers unique circumstances belonging to the foreigner.If you are a minor or have family members accompanying you, special regulations apply that may influence your application process.
• Proof of tuition or educational enrollment is necessary if applying on the basis of studies.
• The foreigner’s certificate of residence may need to be submitted to confirm their country of origin or residence.
• In cases of potential threat to public safety, the application may be denied or additional documentation may be required.
• If the decision is negative, you have 7 days to deliver an appeal to the relevant authority.
• This guide aims to provide you with all the essential information needed to navigate the TRC application process successfully. If you follow these steps and prepare thoroughly, obtaining a Temporary Residence Card in Poland can be a straightforward process.

What is time2legal?

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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.

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