Work / Immigration visa · China to Poland

National Visa D - Work

Embassy required

• Maximum stay: 365 days
• Processing time: 15 working days standard, up to 30 days; work permit processing 3-6 months by voivodeship office
• Fee: EUR 135 (National Visa D fee since June 2024)
• Validity: Up to 1 year (Visa D); then apply for temporary residence and work permit valid up to 3 years
• Entry: Multiple entry

National Visa D for employment in Poland. The employer must first obtain a work permit from the local voivodeship office before the employee applies for a visa. As of June 1, 2025, the labor market test is no longer required; instead, local authorities may create lists of professions for which work permits will not be issued, prioritizing Polish citizens. Work permits are valid up to 3 years for standard employees, or up to 5 years if the foreigner serves on the management board of a legal entity with over 25 employees. All work permit and declaration processes are moving online. Since June 26, 2024, all applications for Polish work visas must be submitted electronically through the e-Konsulat system.

Eligibility

• Nationality

  Third-country nationals (non-EU/EEA/Swiss) who have a valid work permit or employer's declaration issued by a Polish employer.

• Employment

  Must have a valid work permit issued by the voivodeship office, or an employer's declaration of intent to entrust work. The employer must apply for the work permit before the visa application.

  Required status: Valid work permit or employer's declaration

• Purpose of visit

  Must be entering Poland for the purpose of employment as specified in the work permit.

  Includes

  • Employment
• Criminal record

  Must not pose a threat to public policy, internal security, or public health.

Documents you need

• Passport

  Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 3

• Photo

  Count: 2; Specifications: 35x45mm, colour

• Accommodation proof

  Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.

  Accepted types: Rental agreement, employer-provided housing, or host declaration; Must cover full stay: No

• Application form

  Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

  Form name: National visa D application form; Form url: https://secure.e-konsulat.gov.pl/

• Visa fee payment

  Accepted methods: Cash, card; Amount: EUR 135

• Work contract

  Provide a signed job offer, contract or assignment letter showing the role, dates and employer.

  Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: Yes

How to apply

1. Document gathering

   Employer obtains work permit from voivodeship office. Employee gathers passport, photos, work permit, employment contract, insurance, and accommodation proof.

2. Online application

   Submit the national visa D application electronically through the e-Konsulat system (https://secure.e-konsulat.gov.pl/).

3. Appointment booking

   Book an appointment at the Polish embassy or consulate via e-Konsulat.

4. Fee payment

   Pay the national visa D application fee of EUR 135.

5. Document submission

   Submit all documents in person at the embassy or consulate.

6. Biometrics

   Provide biometric data (fingerprints and photograph).

7. Processing wait

   Wait for visa processing, typically 15 working days, up to 30 days.

8. Visa collection

   Collect your passport with the visa D sticker.

This information is general guidance only and can change frequently. Always verify with the official embassy or consulate before making travel plans. Contact [email protected] for help.