

How to get a healthcare job in Poland for foreigners
Poland’s health care sector is growing rapidly, creating numerous job opportunities for foreign professionals, including doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, caregivers, and medical technicians. This guide explains how foreigners can secure a health care job in Poland, covering eligibility, licensing, visa requirements, and job search tips.
Why Choose Poland for a Health Care Career?
- High demand for medical professionals — Poland faces a shortage of doctors, nurses, and caregivers due to an ageing population and emigration of local staff.
- Attractive salaries and benefits — Foreign health care workers in Poland enjoy competitive pay, health insurance, and social security benefits.
- Pathways to permanent residence — A health care job can support applications for long-term residency or permanent stay.
- Opportunity to work in EU-standard facilities — Poland’s hospitals and clinics are modernizing and adopting European standards.
In-Demand Health Care Jobs for Foreigners in Poland
Job Title |
Average Monthly Salary (Gross) |
Language Requirement |
---|---|---|
Nurse |
€1,000 - €1,600 |
B1-B2 Polish (mandatory for licensing) |
Doctor (specialist) |
€2,500 - €4,500 |
B2 Polish (mandatory for practice) |
Caregiver / Elderly care assistant |
€900 - €1,300 |
Basic Polish (A2) |
Physiotherapist |
€1,200 - €2,000 |
B1 Polish |
Medical technician |
€1,000 - €1,500 |
B1 Polish |
How Foreigners Can Get a Health Care Job in Poland
1. Verify Qualifications
Foreigners must have their medical qualifications recognized in Poland. This means:
- For doctors and nurses: Apply for diploma recognition through the Ministry of Health.
- For other medical professions: Apply to the competent authority for credential validation.
- Non-EU citizens: Prepare for nostrification or equivalence procedures.
2. Polish Language Proficiency
Most health care roles require at least B1 or B2 level Polish due to patient communication and legal requirements. It’s advisable to:
- Enroll in language courses before applying.
- Pass language exams accepted by the Polish Medical Chamber (for doctors).
3. Search for Jobs
You can find health care job openings via:
- Polish public job portals: https://oferty.praca.gov.pl
- Hospital websites
- Recruitment agencies specialized in health care
- AtoZSerwisPlus.pl — assistance with job placement and work permits.
4. Get an Employment Offer
Once you secure a job offer:
- The employer often helps initiate the work permit process.
- Ensure the contract meets legal standards, including salary, working hours, and benefits.
5. Apply for Work Permit and Visa
- Work permit: Your employer applies for this on your behalf.
- Visa (National D): Apply at the Polish consulate in your home country with the work permit decision and employment contract.
6. Register for Practice
- Doctors and nurses: Register with the relevant professional chamber (e.g., Polish Chamber of Physicians and Dentists, Polish Nurses and Midwives Chamber).
- Other professions: Check sector-specific registration requirements.
Documents Typically Required
- Valid passport
- Recognized medical diploma
- Polish language certificate (if required)
- Employment contract
- Work permit decision
- Visa application form
- Proof of accommodation in Poland
- Medical insurance
Additional Tips
- Consider rural or smaller city hospitals, which often have a greater demand and easier hiring process for foreigners.
- Be ready for adaptation periods — many hospitals offer mentoring or induction programs for foreign staff.
- Stay updated on regulations — health care laws and licensing rules change, so always check the latest requirements.
Why Apply Through AtoZ Serwis Plus?
- End-to-end assistance: From job search to work permit and visa processing.
- Verified employers: We connect you only with genuine employers in Poland.
- Support in language preparation: Guidance on required language courses.
- Transparent process: No hidden fees, and all procedures are legally compliant.
Ready to apply? Contact AtoZ Serwis Plus today to start your journey to a legal health care job in Poland!
Conclusion
Poland is an excellent destination for foreign health care professionals seeking rewarding jobs and a stable future in the EU. With proper preparation — including language skills, diploma recognition, and the right work permit — you can build a successful medical career in Poland.