Poland’s gearing up to tighten the screws on immigration in 2025. If you’re an expat in Wrocław, take a moment to familiarise yourself with all the significant Poland residence permit changes that will impact the lives of thousands of foreigners in Poland. While the new rules are still pending the President’s nod, it’s already buzzing among foreigners, promising tougher permits, visa shifts, and a legal maze. Partnering with SG Advocates, I’m breaking it down so you can stay legit and stress-free.
Key Updates in Poland Immigration Law 2025: What You Need to Know
Stricter Karta Pobytu Rules (Temporary Polish Residence Permit)
- Financial proof as new eligibility criteria: Demonstrating a higher level of financial stability, the applicants will have to provide comprehensive documentation to support their application. The exact amounts aren’t set, but expect a higher bar.
- Language proficiency requirement: B1 Polish is mandatory for EU long-term residence permits. However, a higher level of language proficiency can be mandatory. Don’t give up on the Polish language yet!
- Continuous five-year residence in Poland: Applicants must have resided in Poland uninterruptedly for at least five years to be eligible for a long-term EU resident permit.
Poland Work Visa and Employment Law Updates
- Salary scrutiny: While the labour market test has been removed, the Immigration Office will now assess whether an applicant’s salary aligns with market standards, eliminating the previous minimum salary threshold.
- Restricted contract types: Full-time Umowa o Pracę might be the only ticket for Poland work permits. Other freelance contracts, like Umowa zlecenie or Umowa o dzieło, could be sidelined. Proposed, not final.
- Non-refundable fees: The 100 zł administrative fee for work permits may be non-refundable. It means that if an application is rejected, the money will not be returned. Also proposed, not final.
- Employer compliance: Employers must ensure compliance with tax obligations and labour laws. With the Immigration Office monitoring, ZUS and PIP record slip-ups can lead to application rejections.
Longer Processing Times and Urząd Dolnośląski Delays
- Increased waiting periods: Extra scrutiny and additional verification processes mean delays for permits and visas. Applicants may experience longer processing times for residence permits and work visas. Wrocław expats, plan ahead.
- Digital application system: The introduction of an electronic submission portal aims to streamline applications but may initially contribute to delays as the system is implemented.
Stricter Penalties for Overstaying and Legal Violations
- Enhanced fines and entry bans: Overstaying visas or violating legal stay requirements will now result in more severe penalties. Expect increased fines and potential entry bans. Make sure to monitor your visa status closely and adhere strictly to the terms of the permits to avoid legal repercussions.
- Employment records check: Authorities will cross-check tax and employment records with ZUS, PIP, and PUP databases, making compliance more critical for applicants.
Who Will Be Most Affected by These Changes?
Foreign students in Wrocław
- Stricter enrollment verification: Universities could implement more rigorous checks on foreign students to prevent the misuse of student visas. Expect language proficiency checks and attendance monitoring.
- Reduced work opportunities: New regulations may limit the scope of employment for foreign students while studying, affecting their ability to support themselves financially.
Freelancers and Digital Nomads
- Limited visa options: With the restriction on acceptable contract types for work permits, freelancers and digital nomads may find it more challenging to obtain legal work status in Poland.
- Alternative pathways: Exploring other visa categories or considering formal employment contracts may be necessary to comply with the new regulations.
Non-EU Employees and Business Owners
- Compliance with employment laws: Employers must ensure that their foreign employees’ contracts meet the new standards, and business owners must navigate the updated legal landscape to maintain operations.
- Impact on startups: Entrepreneurs may face additional hurdles in hiring international talent due to the stricter employment verification processes.
How to Stay Compliant with the Polish Immigration Law 2025
Stay ahead of the game – take these steps before applying for a Polish residence permit in 2025
- Prepare comprehensive documentation: Gather all necessary documents, including proof of financial stability, valid employment contracts, and language proficiency certificates, to support your application. Leave no gaps in your application!
- Seek legal expert advice: Consulting with an immigration lawyer can help navigate the complexities of the new laws and increase the likelihood of a successful karta pobytu application. Lawyers at SG Advocates know how to navigate through this mess. Boost your odds with their professional legal support.
What to Do If Your Application Gets Rejected?
- Understand the rejection reasons: Carefully review the feedback provided to identify areas of deficiency or non-compliance.
- File an appeal: Follow the official appeal process, providing additional documentation or clarification as required, and consider seeking legal assistance to strengthen your case.
Must Read: Common Reasons Behind Karta Pobytu Rejections and How to Avoid Them
Current Status of Poland’s New Immigration Law (2025)
As of today (April 03, 2025), these proposed immigration changes have not yet been enacted. While they have passed the legislative process, they still require the President’s final approval. Until then, the existing immigration rules remain unchanged. I highly recommend staying updated on official announcements and preparing accordingly.
Are you facing karta pobytu chaos? SG Advocates in Wrocław are your go-to! Hit them up or drop me a message for comprehensive support. Stay sharp, expats! Mention Whistling Hound when reaching out to them to unlock an extra discount on your application for legal assistance!
FAQs – Poland’s 2025 Immigration Law Changes
Q1: What are the biggest changes in Poland’s immigration laws in 2025?
A: Key changes include stricter eligibility criteria for residence permits, enhanced salary scrutiny for work visas, and the introduction of an electronic application system.
Q2: Will work visas be hard to obtain under the new rules?
A: Yes, with the labour market test removed, there is increased scrutiny on salary levels and contract types, making compliance more challenging.
Q3: How long will it take to get a residence permit in Wrocław in 2025?
A: Processing times are expected to be longer due to additional verification processes and the implementation of new digital systems.
Q4: Can students work while studying in Poland under the new rules?
A: While students can still work, there may be new restrictions on the types of employment and hours permitted, necessitating careful review of the regulations.
Q5: What happens if I overstay my visa in 2025?
A: Overstaying can result in increased fines, potential entry bans, and other legal consequences, emphasising the importance of adhering to visa conditions.
Further Read: How to Get a Temporary Residence Card (Karta Pobytu) in Poland – A Foreigner’s Step-by-Step Guide
