Publication date: 12.05.2024
Lawyer
Registration of residence permit in EU countries. The procedure for obtaining a residence permit in Poland for citizens of Ukraine has its own peculiarities and legal nuances, which are important to know in advance. Poland, as a member of the European Union, offers several options for legalizing the stay of foreigners on its territory.
The most common reasons for obtaining a residence permit in Poland for Ukrainians are:
1. Employment. In order to work legally, it is necessary to issue a temporary residence permit. The employer must apply for an employment permit on behalf of the employee.
2. Training. Students can obtain a residence permit for higher education by confirming enrollment and availability of funds for living.
3. Entrepreneurial activity. Opening a business in Poland gives the right to obtain a temporary residence permit.
4. Family reunification. Close relatives (husband/wife, minor children, parents) of Polish citizens or foreigners with a valid residence permit may apply for a residence permit.
The first step is to submit a set of documents to the department for foreigners of the voivodship administration (representative of OVIR) at the future place of residence. Necessary documents:
- Completed questionnaire-application of the established model;
- Valid foreign passport;
- Documents confirming the purpose of stay (e.g., employment contract, invitation to work, certificate of enrollment in an educational institution);
- Certificate of criminal record;
- Confirmation of residence in Poland;
- Documents on financial support for the period of stay;
- Medical insurance;
- Receipt for the payment of the consular fee.
The cost and terms of registration depend on the basis for obtaining a permit. For example, a residence permit for employment costs about PLN 500 and is considered for 1 to 7 months.
After consideration of the application and confirmation of all conditions, the applicant is issued a temporary or permanent resident card. A temporary visa is issued for a period of up to 3 years with the possibility of extension. A permanent residence permit can be obtained only after 5 years of legal stay in Poland.
It is important to adhere to the validity period of the permit and submit documents for renewal in a timely manner. Violation of Polish legislation, lack of a legal source of income, provision of inaccurate information, etc. may be reasons for cancellation of a residence permit.
Separately, it is worth mentioning the simplified procedure for citizens of Ukraine who arrived in Poland after February 24, 2022 due to Russia's military aggression. There is a special program of Auxiliary Protection of the Commonwealth of Nations (OTP) for them. It gives the right to a legal stay in Poland for up to 3 years with the possibility of employment and receiving medical care and education for children.
In general, the process of obtaining a residence permit in Poland is quite formalized and requires careful preparation of all documents in accordance with the legislation. This is due to the strict migration policy of the European Union and the need for careful selection of candidates. Contacting professional law firms can help avoid mistakes and simplify the legalization procedure for Ukrainian citizens as much as possible.
