Relocating to Poland involves navigating specific administrative, legal, and logistical requirements. Planning several months in advance is essential, particularly for non-EU citizens who must secure entry permits before departure. As of 2026, many processes, including the acquisition of identification numbers, now require in-person attendance shortly after arrival, making pre-move document preparation even more critical.
1. Identifying Visa and Entry Requirements
Your legal right to enter and stay in Poland depends on your citizenship and the duration of your stay. The regulations are divided into two main categories:
- EU/EEA and Swiss Citizens: You do not need a visa to enter Poland. For stays exceeding 90 days, you are required to register your residence at the local Voivodeship Office (Urząd Wojewódzki) after arrival.
- Non-EU (Third-Country) Nationals: To stay longer than 90 days, you must apply for a National Visa (Type D) at a Polish consulate in your home country. This visa is typically valid for up to one year. If you plan to work, you generally need a work permit or a "promise of employment" from a Polish employer before applying for the visa.
Example: A software engineer from India moving for a job must first have their Polish employer apply for a work permit. Once the permit is issued, the engineer applies for a Type D visa at the Polish consulate in India.
2. Document Checklist and Legalization
Gathering and legalizing documents while still in your home country is vital, as obtaining them from abroad is often difficult and expensive. Ensure all documents are either in Polish or English; if not, they will eventually require a sworn translation (tłumaczenie przysięgłe) by a translator registered in Poland.
| Document Type | Requirement/Action |
|---|---|
| Passport | Must be valid for at least 3–6 months beyond your intended stay and have at least two blank pages. |
| Civil Documents | Marriage and birth certificates should be Apostilled or legalized by your Ministry of Foreign Affairs if you are moving with family. |
| Education/Work | Diplomas, transcripts, and professional certificates. Some regulated professions may require formal recognition (nostrification). |
| Financial Proof | Bank statements from the last 3–6 months showing sufficient funds for maintenance (minimum amounts depend on individual situations). |
3. Health Insurance Coverage
Proof of health insurance is mandatory for both visa applications and for legal residence in Poland. The policy must meet specific criteria:
For the visa stage, you must possess Travel Medical Insurance (TMI) with a minimum coverage of €30,000. This insurance must cover emergency medical expenses, hospitalization, and repatriation for the entire duration of your visa. Once you begin working in Poland, you will typically be covered by the state system (ZUS), but you must have private coverage for the initial transition period.
4. Securing Initial Accommodation
While most foreigners search for long-term housing after arrival, you must have a confirmed address for your visa application and for the mandatory Zameldowanie (registration of stay) within your first few days in Poland.
Popular platforms for researching the market include Otodom.pl and OLX.pl. For pre-arrival bookings, it is standard practice to use short-term rentals (like Airbnb or apart-hotels) for the first 2–4 weeks. Be aware that many landlords in Poland use an "Occasional Lease" (Najem Okazjonalny), which requires a notarized statement. The feasibility of signing a long-term lease from abroad depends on the individual situation and the landlord's willingness.
5. The 2026 "In-Person" Rule for PESEL
A significant change effective from January 1, 2026, concerns the PESEL number (a Polish personal identification number). Previously, some foreigners could obtain this through a proxy. Now, all individuals must appear in person at the local city hall (Urząd Miasta/Dzielnicy) to complete their address registration and receive a PESEL. This number is essential for opening bank accounts, paying taxes, and accessing healthcare, so ensure your travel itinerary accounts for an early visit to the local administration office.
6. Relocating with Pets
If you are moving with a dog, cat, or ferret, you must complete the following at least 21 days before travel:
- Microchip: Must comply with ISO Standard 11784 or 11785.
- Rabies Vaccination: Must be administered after the microchip is implanted.
- Health Certificate: An EU Animal Health Certificate issued by an official veterinarian in your country.
For more detailed information on specific visa types or to find the nearest consulate, visit the official Polish Government Visa Portal.