A temporary residence permit for the purpose of education is a document that allows non-EU foreigners to legally stay in Poland in connection with undertaking higher education studies. The legal basis is Article 144 of the Act of December 12, 2013 on Foreigners.
 

Who can apply?
Foreigners may apply for the permit if they:

  • have been admitted to higher education studies conducted in Poland and intend to start or
    continue studies at a Polish university, or
  • are citizens of Belarus and intend to undertake a preparatory course for such studies,

and also:

  • have valid health insurance,
  • have sufficient financial resources to support themselves in Poland and to return to their
    country of origin (income higher than the threshold for social assistance benefits),
  • have secured accommodation (e.g., dormitory, apartment, rental agreement).
     

What does the procedure look like?

The application must be submitted in person to the voivode competent for the foreigner’s place of residence, no later than the last day of legal stay in Poland. The application should be accompanied by, among others:

  • a certificate from the university confirming admission to studies,
  • documents confirming possession of financial resources and accommodation,
  • an insurance policy or certificate of insurance with the National Health Fund (NFZ),
  • biometric photos and a passport.
     

Note! Formal deficiencies (e.g., outdated documents, lack of sworn translation, missing signature) may result in the application being left unprocessed or the procedure being significantly delayed.

 

Decision and residence card

A positive decision results in the issuance of a residence card, which confirms legal stay in Poland and entitles the holder to cross the border multiple times without having to apply for a visa each time. The permit is usually granted for the duration of studies, but not longer than 15 months. Subsequent permits can be obtained for the duration of the following years of study.
 

Risks and obligations

  • Refusal: The voivode may issue a negative decision if the foreigner does not meet the
    statutory conditions, provides false information, or uses forged documents. The decision can
    be appealed to the Head of the Office for Foreigners within 14 days.
  • Loss of student status: If the foreigner is removed from the list of students, they lose the
    basis for their stay and the permit may be revoked.
  • Obligation to report changes: Any change regarding place of residence, university, or
    student status should be reported to the authorities.