The residence card has a limited period of validity, therefore every foreigner legally residing in Poland must remember to renew it. The process of renewing the residence permit requires proper preparation and knowledge of current regulations. In this article you will find all the necessary information concerning the renewal of the residence card.

When to apply for a residence card renewal?

Application deadline - The application must be submitted no later than 30 days before the expiry of the current residence card.

Consequences of delay - Submitting an application after the deadline may result in having to leave Poland or start the procedure all over again.

Types of licences subject to renewal

Temporary stay - may be renewed more than once, each time for a maximum of three years.

Residence of a long-term EU resident - issued for an indefinite period, but the residence card needs to be replaced every 10 years.

Permanent residence - also for an indefinite period with a card to be replaced every 10 years.

Required documents for renewal of the residence card

Core documents:

• Application for extension of temporary residence permit
• Current residence card
• Valid travel document
• 4 recent biometric photographs
• Proof of payment of stamp duty

Documents supporting the basis of residency:

For residence due to work:

• Employment contract or employer's declaration
• Certificate of no arrears in social security and taxes
• Confirmation of income for the last 3 months

For residency due to business:

• Current certificate from CEIDG or KRS
• Last year's PIT
• Confirmation of payment of social security and taxes

For residence due to study:

• Certificate of continuing education
• Confirmation of funds
• Academic progress (if required)

Step-by-step procedure for extending the residence card

Step 1: Verification of the deadline Check the expiry date of your residence card and plan to apply well in advance.

Step 2: Preparation of documentation Gather all the required documents according to the basis of your residence.

Step 3: Making an appointment Contact the relevant provincial office and arrange a visit.

Step 4: Submission of the application Submit your application in person with your documents and fingerprints taken.

Step 5: Awaiting a decision The processing time is a maximum of 60 days.

Costs related to the renewal of the residence card

• Stamp duty for renewal: PLN 340
• New residence card: £100 (£50 concessionary fee)
• Additional translations: £46-120 per page
• Certificates and attestations: PLN 17-100

Right to stay while the application is being processed

Once you have submitted your application on time, you will receive a stamp in your passport confirming your right to legal residence pending a decision. This means that you can:

• Continue work
• Benefit from medical care
• Travel within the Schengen area

The most common reasons for refusing an extension

Lack of sufficient financial resources - particularly relevant for stays due to study or family reunification.

Breaks in legal residence - long departures from Poland may influence the decision.

Failure to respect the purpose of the stay - e.g. not working with an employment-related permit.

Security risk - court judgments or criminal proceedings.

What to do in case of refusal?

A decision refusing an extension can be appealed to the Head of the Office for Foreigners within 14 days. It is advisable to seek the assistance of a lawyer specialising in migration law.

Practical tips

• Prepare documents 2 months in advance
• Make copies of all documents
• Check the validity of financial documents
• If in doubt, consult an expert

Renewal of the residence card is a standard procedure that, if properly prepared, goes smoothly. Remember deadlines and completeness of documentation - these are key to success.