PRO HR Immigration Update May 2026

Foreign nationals from certain countries may benefit from faster residence permit decisions

The Polish authorities are planning to amend the regulations on processing temporary residence permit applications. According to the proposal, a “tacit approval” mechanism will be introduced for citizens of certain highly developed countries who apply for temporary residence permits.

 

A tool for verifying the right of residence in the EU

A tool has been made available on the “Travel to Europe” website for individuals covered by the EES system to verify their eligibility to enter and stay in the EU.

 

Full-time foreign students at private universities retain unrestricted access to the labour market until 30 June 2026

Since 1 December 2025, full-time foreign students in Poland may work without a work permit as long as they study at an institution that:

  • has been approved by the Ministry of Interior and Administration (MSWiA) for admitting foreign students,
  • or is exempt from the approval requirement and has not been subject to a ban on admitting foreign nationals.
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Authors

Michał Kacprzyk, PhD

Attorney-at-law / Partner

Michał supports clients in the People & Culture area wherever there is an international element in employment, including in particular immigration law and global mobility.

In particular Michał specialises in:

  • corporate immigration – legalisation of work and residence of foreigners in Poland,
  • advice on obtaining visas to Poland,
  • international mobility of employees,
  • working remotely from abroad,
  • development of the so-called Employment Hubs in connection with relocation of employees to Poland.

He is responsible for the Immigration & Global Mobility practice and the Visa Practice.

Jan Pietruczuk

Advocate trainee / Lawyer

Jan has been involved in the subject of Polish foreigners’ law for at least 5 years. He advises on all areas concerning the legalisation of residence and work of foreigners, including global mobility.

In particular Jan specialises in:

  • supporting companies in the employment of foreigners,
  • conducting proceedings in the field of employment of foreigners,
  • conducting residence proceedings for foreigners,
  • legalisation of residence of EU citizens in Poland,
  • rules for the residence and work of Ukrainian citizens in Poland,
  • obtaining visas to Poland,
  • conducting proceedings in the area of confirmation of Polish citizenship.