By Residence Angels
Relocation Company in Poland

Poland Permanent Residence – How to Get a Permanent Residence Card in Poland

Reading time: 10 minutes
Wondering how to get permanent residency in Poland? Whether you're married to a Polish citizen, have Polish roots, or hold a Pole’s Card, several legal pathways lead to the Poland permanent residence permit. In this guide, we break down the most common options and the requirements for permanent residence in Poland.

What Is the Poland Permanent Residence Card?

The permanent residence card in Poland (karta pobytu stałego) allows you to stay in Poland indefinitely without the need to renew temporary permits. It’s also a significant step toward obtaining Polish citizenship, offering nearly all the same rights as citizens (excluding voting and running for public office).

How Many Years to Get Permanent Residency in Poland?

It depends on your legal basis. Below are the most common routes:
  • ✅ With a Pole’s Card – you can apply at any time while holding the card.
  • ✅ With Polish origins – you may qualify immediately, but each case is individual and requires verification.
  • ✅ Through marriage – after 3 years of marriage and 2 years of stay on a temporary residence permit.
  • ✅ As a refugee – after 5 years of holding refugee status in Poland.

1. Permanent Residence Based on Pole’s Card (Karta Polaka)

If you hold a valid Pole’s Card, you're entitled to apply for permanent residence at any time, regardless of your length of stay in Poland.
Requirements:
  • Valid Karta Polaka
  • Proof that Poland is your main place of interest (work, studies, business, etc.)
  • Proof of accommodation and income
  • Health insurance
💡 You are exempt from the Polish language exam. Your card proves cultural ties.

2. Permanent Residence Based on Polish Nationality (By Descent)

If you have Polish ancestry (parent, grandparent, or great-grandparent), and can prove it with legal documentation, you may apply for permanent residence.
However, each case is treated individually. You may be asked to attend an interview and demonstrate personal or cultural connection to Poland.

✅ No Polish language exam required, though basic communication may help during the interview.

📩 Contact us to assess your eligibility based on descent.

3. Permanent Residence Based on Marriage to a Polish Citizen

If you are married to a Polish citizen, you may apply for permanent residence after 3 years of marriage and 2 years of legal stay in Poland on a temporary residence card (TRC).

You must provide:
  • Marriage certificate
  • Proof of living together in Poland
  • TRC held for minimum 2 years

4. Permanent Residence for Refugees

If you have been granted refugee status in Poland, you become eligible to apply for a permanent residence permit after 5 years.

📌 This pathway requires:
  • Confirmation of continued stay in Poland
  • Proof of integration and lawful residence
  • Health insurance and basic documentation

Poland Permanent Residence Requirements (General)

Regardless of the basis, you will typically need:
  • Valid passport
  • Application form
  • Biometric photo
  • Proof of accommodation in Poland
  • Health insurance
  • Proof of income (unless exempt)

Need Help Applying for Permanent Residence in Poland?

At Residence Angels, we provide expert support throughout the process — from eligibility checks to application filing and interview preparation.

📞 Contact us for a tailored consultation and get help navigating the Polish immigration system with confidence.