Can I apply for jobs in Poland on a dependent visa?
If you are planning to move to Poland as a dependent of someone holding a work visa or residence permit, you might wonder — can you work while staying in Poland on a dependent visa?
The short answer is: Not automatically. Dependent visa holders in Poland do not have the right to work unless they apply for and receive additional work authorisation.
What Is a Dependent Visa in Poland?
A dependent visa in Poland is issued to immediate family members (such as a spouse or children) of a person who has legal residency, typically on the basis of employment, studies, or the EU Blue Card.
It is categorized under family reunification (Karta pobytu z tytułu połączenia z rodziną).
Can You Work on a Dependent Visa?
No, you cannot legally work in Poland on a dependent visa by default. You must first apply for a work permit or a temporary residence and work permit (zezwolenie na pobyt czasowy i pracę).
Exceptions:
If your spouse or sponsor holds an EU Blue Card, the process may be easier for you, but you still need to follow formal procedures before starting work.
How to Get Work Authorisation as a Dependent in Poland
Here is how you can obtain legal permission to work:
- Enter Poland on a family reunification visa.
- Submit an application for a work permit or a combined residence and work permit at your local Voivodeship Office (Urząd Wojewódzki).
- Wait for approval — only after receiving the decision can you begin working legally. Official Source:
Temporary Residence for Family Members – Gov.pl
Work Permit Information – Gov.pl
What Happens if You Work Without Authorisation?
Working illegally in Poland can lead to serious consequences, such as:
- Fines or penalties
- Deportation
- Visa cancellation
- Entry ban into the Schengen area
Always secure the appropriate legal documents before accepting a job offer in Poland.
When Are Dependents Allowed to Work Freely?
|
Situation |
Can You Work Without a Separate Permit? |
|---|---|
|
Dependent of a regular work visa holder |
No |
|
Dependent of EU Blue Card holder |
Easier access, but still need registration |
|
Dependent of a permanent resident/long-term EU resident |
Possible, but check local rules |
|
Student visa dependents |
Not allowed to work directly |
If you're a dependent in Poland and want to work legally, you must apply for the proper work authorization, even if your spouse or family member is already working.
Whether you're applying for a full-time job or planning to work part-time, always check with your local Voivodeship Office or a legal immigration consultant.
Useful Government Links
- https://www.gov.pl/web/udsc/temporary-residence
- https://www.gov.pl/web/udsc/residence-and-work-permit
- https://www.gov.pl/web/udsc/temporary-residence-due-to-family-reunion
Top 10 most in-demand jobs in Poland
The table below has the list of the in-demand jobs in Poland:
|
Rank |
Job Title |
Role Highlights |
Approx. Salary / Demand Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|
|
1 |
Software Developer / IT Specialist |
Strong need for Java, Python, full-stack, DevOps, ML, cybersecurity |
IT specialist shortage ~50 k; salaries +14 % for ML |
|
2 |
Data Scientist / Machine Learning Engineer |
High demand in AI, data analysis, ML, cybersecurity |
Salaries spiking; top IT role |
|
3 |
Cybersecurity Analyst |
Deficit of qualified professionals; roles in energy, defense, finance |
IT sector growth; cybersecurity a priority |
|
4 |
Financial Analyst / Accountant |
Demand in finance, accounting, risk management sectors |
Finance/accounting skills in high demand |
|
5 |
Human Resources Manager |
Needed for complex labor law navigation, multinational firms |
HR skills trending upward |
|
6 |
Project Manager / Engineering Manager |
Coordination of IT, construction, manufacturing projects |
Multiple leadership roles in demand |
|
7 |
Healthcare Professional (Nurse, Doctor, Technician) |
Workforce shortages due to aging demographics |
Strong need for healthcare staff |
|
8 |
Construction Worker / Civil Engineer |
Ongoing infrastructure expansion, high vacancy rates (~1.56%) |
Construction boom in urban areas |
|
9 |
Plumber / Electrician |
Needed for residential/commercial building & renovation works |
Blue‑collar in demand |
|
10 |
Logistics / Transport Specialist |
Vital to e-commerce, manufacturing, supply chain growth |
Transport and logistics rapidly expanding |
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