A national D visa and permission to work are distinct. Prepare the appropriate employment authorisation as well as the visa or residence basis.
Route overview
National D visa for work plus work permit / work basis
Typical timeline / duration: National D visa up to one year; type A work permit can be up to 3 years depending on circumstances.
Important notes
A D-type national visa permits stays in Poland over 90 days up to one year.
For employment, Border Guard checks passport and visa; work generally requires an employment basis such as a Polish work permit/declaration.
UK government country guidance notes type A work permit for Polish employment contract up to 3 years.
A Polish employer and a defined position are required. The employer normally obtains a type-A work permit stating the employer, role, place of work, contract period, and minimum pay; the applicant then uses that permit for the national D work visa.
Since 1 June 2025 the Act on the employment of foreigners has replaced the labour market test with regional lists of professions closed to foreign hiring. Employers must file a signed employment contract, notify changes such as a move, a change in working hours or termination, and keep employment data for two years after the job ends; applications are moving to an electronic-only system.
The national visa covers entry and stay; the work permit authorises work for the named employer and role. The application needs evidence for both parts.
In force since 27 April 2026: MOS is the electronic channel for residence-permit applications in Poland, subject to the listed exceptions. It does not replace a consular D-visa application. A later student or work residence application is a separate procedure.
Preparation checklist
Have the employer identify and obtain the work authorisation required for your nationality, job and employment arrangement.
Check the competent consulate's D-visa appointment, documents and fee instructions.
For a subsequent temporary residence and work application in Poland, check MOS separately; keep the submission confirmation and attend requested appointments.