Changing Employer with a Residence Card (TRC) in Poland

Changing Employer in Poland – What Happens to Your Residence Card?

It’s common for foreigners legally residing in Poland to change jobs. However, this often raises an important legal question: what will happen to my current residence card if I switch employers?

Constitutional Right – Freedom to Choose a Workplace

According to Article 65 of the Constitution of the Republic of Poland, everyone has the right to freely choose their profession and place of work. This fundamental right also applies to foreigners legally residing in Poland. However, the realization of this right in the context of residence and employment is regulated by the Act on Foreigners.

Single Permit for Temporary Residence and Work – Limited Flexibility

A residence card issued on the basis of a single permit for temporary residence and work is strictly bound by the conditions specified in the voivode’s decision. This means the permit is only valid for the specific employer and working conditions stated in the application.

Changing your employer without updating the permit can result in the loss of legal status and complications during inspections or while applying for renewal.

What to Do When Changing Employers?

Depending on your situation, there are two possible options:

1. Modify the Existing Permit

According to the Foreigners Act, the voivode can change the conditions of an existing permit if the foreigner:

• wants to start working for a different employer,
• changes the end-user employer (in the case of temporary work agencies),
• changes work conditions (e.g., salary, job title, working hours, etc.).

Important: You must notify the Voivodeship Office about the termination of employment with the current employer within 15 working days. If a new or corrective application is submitted within this timeframe, your legal status is maintained. Otherwise, the voivode may refuse to modify the permit.

2. Submit a New Application for Temporary Residence and Work

In some cases, changing the existing permit may not be possible or practical (for example, due to significant delays in processing or a change in your professional profile). In such cases, you must submit a new application for a residence card based on employment with a new employer.

❗️Until the new positive decision is issued, the foreigner cannot legally work for the new employer, except in certain cases where the so-called continuity of legal stay applies (based on a stamp in the passport).

Summary

Changing your employer in Poland while holding a residence card requires strict compliance with legal procedures and deadlines. Failing to meet these requirements may result in refusal of a new permit, loss of the right to work, or issues with further legalization.

Need Legal Support in Poland?

If you’re planning to change your employer, want to keep your current residence card, or need to file a new application — contact the experts at ONE PLUS. We guide you through every step, prepare all necessary documents, and communicate with the authorities on your behalf.