Performing work without the need to have a work permit

Introduction

Performing work in Poland by citizens of the Member States of the European Union, the European Economic Area (i.e., Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein) and Switzerland and their family members exercising the freedom of movement of people in Poland does not require obtaining access rights to the labour market – these rights are granted to them by law. Free access to the labour market is also available to British citizens who are beneficiaries of the withdrawal agreement of the United Kingdom from the EU structures.

Other foreigners, in order to be able to perform work in Poland, should:

• have a work permit (issued at the employer's request) and the right of residence in Poland on a basis that allows them to perform work (e.g., a visa, with some exceptions, or a temporary residence permit, except for a permit due to circumstances requiring a short-term stay) or

• have one of the uniform residence and work permits (issued at the request of a foreigner), which combines elements of a residence permit and a work permit, i.e., a temporary residence and work permit or a temporary residence permit in a profession of high qualifications.

The regulations provide for a number of exceptions to the need to have a work permit.