Poland has become one of the top destinations for international students due to its affordable education, high-quality universities, and vibrant student life. However, after the first year of studies, many students face the challenge of how to stay in Poland legally when their visa expires.
In this guide, we explain everything you need to know about how to legalize your stay in Poland by obtaining a temporary residence permit – the Karta Pobytu – as a student.
The Karta Pobytu is a residence card that confirms your legal stay in Poland. For students, it’s the most convenient long-term solution after their visa or visa-free stay ends.
You are eligible to apply for a temporary residence permit if:
Below is a complete checklist of documents required for the residence permit application:
| No. | Document | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Residence Permit Application (Wniosek) | Completed and signed form. |
| 2 | 4 passport-size photos | Biometric, recent, and meeting visa standards. |
| 3 | Passport | Original and photocopies of all used pages. |
| 4 | University Certificate | Confirmation of enrollment or continued studies. |
| 5 | Proof of Tuition Payment | Required especially for private universities. |
| 6 | Health Insurance | Must cover the entire planned stay in Poland. |
| 7 | Proof of Financial Means | Bank statement or official sponsorship letter. |
| 8 | Accommodation Confirmation | Rental agreement or dormitory certificate. |
| 9 | Payment Receipt | 340 PLN fee for processing + 100 PLN for card issuance. |
One of the most common questions from international students is how to prove sufficient financial resources. Polish immigration authorities require proof that you can support yourself during your stay.
You need to show:
Formula:
(1010 PLN + your monthly rent) × 15 months + return ticket cost| Living Cost | Rent | Months | Subtotal | Return Ticket (Standard) | Return Ticket (Distant Country) | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1010 PLN | 1000 PLN | 15 | 30,150 PLN | 220 PLN | 2500 PLN | 30,370 PLN or 32,650 PLN |
✅ If your rent is different (e.g., 800 PLN), use that figure instead in your calculation.
You can provide one of the following:
⚠️ Note: Avoid using only credit card limits or foreign bank accounts without official translation.
After submitting your documents, you will receive a stamp in your passport. This stamp legalizes your stay in Poland while your case is being processed — even if your visa or visa-free period expires.
The first card is typically issued for 15 months, covering the academic year and summer holidays. However, to obtain a residence card for up to 3 years, consider the following:
Avoid these frequent mistakes:
❗ You have the right to appeal if your application is denied (within 14 days of the decision).
You must apply in person at the Voivodeship Office (Urząd Wojewódzki) in your region, specifically in the Foreigners’ Department (Wydział ds. Cudzoziemców). Some regions require prior online reservation.
Yes, as long as your stay in Poland is still legal (with visa or visa-free) and you have all required documents from your university.
Yes, if you are a full-time student, you are allowed to work without additional permits.
Applying for a Karta Pobytu as a student can be stressful, especially if it’s your first time dealing with Polish authorities. That’s why hundreds of students trust ONE PLUS to take care of the paperwork, ensure legal compliance, and guide them through the process step by step.
✅ Visit us at: www.one-plus.pro
📞 Call: +48 71 880 85 08
📧 Email: biuro@one-plus.pl
📍 Piłsudskiego 43 Wrocław, Poland
Ready to apply? Don’t leave your future to chance. Let the experts at ONE PLUS handle your legalization process in Poland – quickly, legally, and stress-free.
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