How a permanent residence permit differs from EU long-term resident status and who can apply.
Introduction
After several years of legal residence, a foreign national can exchange successive temporary residence cards for indefinite residence. There are two routes: a permanent residence permit and an EU long-term resident permit.
How it works
- EU long-term resident: as a rule at least 5 years of legal and uninterrupted residence in Poland, a stable income, health insurance and documented knowledge of Polish
- permanent residence: among others for people of Polish descent, holders of the Pole’s Card and spouses of Polish citizens, once the conditions are met
- both permits are issued by the voivode for an indefinite period, and the residence card is replaced every 10 years
- EU resident status makes it easier to move to another EU country
Why it matters and what is important
Indefinite residence gives stability to the family and the business: there is no need to renew permits every year or two or to change them when changing jobs. It is also usually a precondition for applying for Polish citizenship.
Related services
Related information
This article is general in nature and does not constitute legal or tax advice. Legal status as of 17 October 2026.
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