Official matters
What do I do when my residence card is about to expire?
Verified: September 2026 Checked by: Marta Wagner-Mejna
Step by step
- Check the exact expiry date on your current residence card or in your passport.
- Start gathering the documents for the next permit at least 2–3 months before that date.
- Submit the application for the next temporary (or permanent / long-term resident) permit in person or by registered post before the deadline.
- Make sure you get proof of posting or a stamp in your passport confirming that the application was filed on time.
- Tell your employer that the application has been filed and show them the confirmation from the office.
Many people worry about the situation where the plastic residence card runs out before the new decision has been issued. Under the Polish Act on Foreigners, what matters is the fact that a complete application was filed on time.
Filing the application legalises your stay by operation of law, allows you to continue working legally (if you already had that right), and protects you during Border Guard checks in Poland. Note, however, that the stamp in your passport alone does not entitle you to travel to other Schengen countries.
Where to look next
Official offices and verified external sources.
Does this not match your situation?
Marta Wagner-Mejna holds free consultations (legal guidance and official matters). The conversation runs in Polish, English. No referral, no fees.