Skip to main content

What is a Karta Pobytu?

What is a Karta Pobytu?

A Karta Pobytu (Residence Card) is a document issued to foreigners residing in Poland. It serves as proof of your identity and your legal right to stay in the country.

Key Takeaways

  • Identity Document: It confirms your identity during your stay in Poland.
  • Travel: Together with a valid passport, it allows you to cross Polish borders multiple times without a visa.
  • Schengen Area: It permits travel within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism purposes.

Types of Karta Pobytu

  1. Temporary Residence Card (Karta Czasowego Pobytu): Issued for a specific period (up to 3 years) based on work, study, family, etc.
  2. Permanent Residence Card (Karta Stałego Pobytu): Issued for an indefinite period, but the card itself is valid for 10 years.
  3. Long-Term EU Resident Card (Karta Rezydenta Długoterminowego UE): Issued for an indefinite period, card valid for 5 years.

Who Needs a Karta Pobytu?

Any non-EU citizen who intends to stay in Poland for more than 90 days needs to apply for a temporary residence permit, which results in the issuance of a Karta Pobytu.

Official Sources