Making a Pobytu card "Start"

Issuance of the residence card ‘Start’ 

The residence card ‘Start’ is a special document issued to foreign nationals or stateless persons for temporary residence in Poland. This type of card allows you to work, study and stay in the country without the need to constantly renew your visa. The Start card can be the first step towards obtaining permanent residence or Polish citizenship. 

Under what conditions can the service of issuing a "Start" residence card be provided?

In order for the service to be provided correctly and on time, the following conditions must be met:

• Presence of documents confirming the identity and the right to stay in the country (passport, visa, temporary residence permit) and those confirming the purpose of stay (employment, study, entrepreneurial activity, etc.).
• Fulfillment of the requirements for a place of residence in the country (registration, rental of housing, etc.).
• Absence of legal obstacles to staying in the country (violation of immigration rules, entry bans, etc.).
• Compliance with the requirements for medical insurance and financial capacity for staying in the country.

Compliance with the above conditions is necessary for the successful receipt of the card and ensuring the legality of staying in the country.

Types of activities permitted with this residence card

You can obtain this document for a number of reasons: 

• Employment in Poland, subject to the fulfilment of work duties. 
• Studying at Polish higher education institutions. 
• Implementation of a business idea and conducting entrepreneurial activity.
• Staying in Poland for the period of validity of the card without the need to renew the permit annually. 
• Legalisation of family ties (if you have relatives who are Polish citizens or residents). 

All of these reasons must be confirmed, so you should take care of this before submitting your application. 

Stages of the procedure for applying for a residence card ‘Start’ 

This process consists of several basic steps: 

1. Collecting the necessary documents. You need to prepare copies of your passport, proof of financial solvency, proof of residence and other materials required for the application. 
2. Submitting the application to the Voivode. The application is submitted to the relevant Voivode at the place of residence. It is important to comply with all the requirements to avoid a refusal. 
3. Waiting for the decision. After submitting the application, it may take from several weeks to several months for the decision to be made. During this period, voivodes may request additional documents. 
4. Receiving the residence card. If the application is approved, you will receive a card that can be used as a proof of legal residence in Poland.

The procedure seems easy, but these are only the main steps. You may encounter a number of difficulties when applying for the document, so it is recommended to consult a legal specialist. 

Advantages of contacting a lawyer 

Professional advice. A professional will help in case of unclear questions regarding the requirements or documents to be submitted for the registration of a residence card. 

Preparation of a package of documents. The specialist will ensure that the required documents are correct and complete, which increases the chances of a positive decision. 

Representation of interests. If necessary, a specialist can represent your client in the voivodeship or other bodies dealing with your case. 

Frequently asked questions about applying for the Start Card