How to Get a Student Residence Permit in Poland (TRC 2025 Guide)

If you plan to study in Poland, you must apply for a student residence permit — also known as a temporary residence card (TRC). This guide explains how to apply for a residence permit in Poland Krakow, Warsaw, and other cities, and what happens if you switch from student TRC to work TRC or business.

Since June 1st, 2025, the immigration office in Poland no longer allows switching directly from a student TRC to work TRC.

• If you're on a student visa or TRC and try to apply for work TRC, your application will likely be rejected.
• This rule aims to enforce that foreigners stay in Poland only for their declared purpose.
• ❗But you can switch from student TRC to business TRC or student TRC to family TRC.
• Also, if you already have a student TRC and later apply for a work TRC — that’s fine. The problem occurs only when applying on a visa issued for studies.

As soon as you arrive in Poland.

• The processing time depends on where you apply:
• Warsaw, Kraków, Poznań: 7–8 months
• Katowice, Szczecin: Up to 2.5 years

To avoid delays:

• Track TRC Poland appointment form availability regularly.
• Use regional systems like InPol, Przybysz, Malopolska e-Urząd.

Here’s how the process works:

Collect Required Documents:

• Valid passport
• Acceptance letter from your university
• Proof of financial means
• Proof of accommodation
• Health insurance
• Completed TRC Poland appointment form

Book the Appointment:

• In your local immigration office
• Use official portals

Submit Application:

• Get a stamp in your passport confirming legal stay during processing

Wait & Respond:

• Be ready to submit extra documents if requested

Card Collection:

• Once approved, collect your residence card (valid for 1–2 years)

Yes. SWPS University and most accredited Polish universities are eligible for student residence permits. Make sure your school is officially listed.

• We book TRC Poland appointment for you — even in overloaded cities
• We help you fill and check your TRC application form
• We represent you in immigration office communication
• We guide you through student TRC to business TRC Poland transitions

Our team speaks English, Polish, Ukrainian, Hindi, and more. With over 7 years of experience, we help you stay safe, legal, and stress-free.