Where should a driver submit documents for the first-time work permit application?

First-Time Work Permit Application in Poland: Where to Submit Documents

For a driver seeking a work permit in Poland for the first time, the application process involves submitting documents to specific offices depending on the location of the employer’s registered office or place of residence. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Submitting the Application

The employer (or the driver, if authorized) typically submits the work permit application on behalf of the foreign driver. The documents are submitted to the Voivodeship Office (Urząd Wojewódzki) relevant to the employer’s registered seat or place of residence.

• Voivodeship Office (Urząd Wojewódzki): This is the primary authority for processing work permit applications. Poland is divided into 16 voivodeships (provinces), each with its own Voivodeship Office.

How to Find the Correct Voivodeship Office

To determine the correct Voivodeship Office, identify the region where the employer’s company is registered or where the employer resides. Here’s how:

• Employer’s Registered Address: The application must be submitted to the Voivodeship Office that has jurisdiction over the employer’s registered address.
• Online Search: Search online for “Urząd Wojewódzki” followed by the name of the city or region where the employer is based. For example, if the company is in Warsaw, search for “Urząd Wojewódzki Warszawa”.

Required Documents

Although the exact list can vary slightly depending on the specific circumstances and any recent legislative changes, the typical documents required for a first-time work permit application include:

• Work Permit Application Form: Completed and signed by the employer.
• Information about the Employer: Documents confirming the employer’s legal status (e.g., business registration certificate).
• Driver’s Passport Copy: A copy of the driver’s passport, including personal data and visa pages (if applicable).
• Proof of Health Insurance: Documentation confirming the driver has health insurance coverage in Poland (e.g., ZUS confirmation after registration).
• Proof of Qualifications: Copies of the driver’s professional qualifications, such as driving licenses and certificates of professional competence (Code 95).
• Criminal Record Certificate: Certificate of no criminal record (PCC) – sometimes required, depending on the specific regulations and the Voivodeship.
• Labor Market Test Information (if applicable): Information on whether a labor market test was conducted (Starosta’s information on the inability to satisfy the employer’s staffing needs based on the registers of the unemployed and job seekers or a positive result of recruitment conducted for the employer).
• Other Supporting Documents: Any other documents that support the application, such as contracts or agreements.

Important Considerations

• Language: All documents must be submitted in Polish or with a certified translation.
• Fees: There are fees associated with the work permit application process.
• In-Person Submission: While some offices may allow online submission of certain documents, the initial application often requires in-person submission or submission by mail.
• Legal Assistance: Consider seeking assistance from a legal professional or a reputable immigration agency to ensure all requirements are met and the application is correctly prepared.

Official Resources

Refer to the official websites for the most accurate and up-to-date information:

• Polish Office for Foreigners (Urzad do Spraw Cudzoziemcow): Provides comprehensive information on legalizing the stay and work of foreigners in Poland.
• Biznes.gov.pl: Offers guidance on obtaining work permits.
• Specific Voivodeship Office Websites: Each Voivodeship Office has its own website with detailed instructions and contact information.

Disclaimer: Regulations and procedures can change, so always verify the latest requirements with the relevant Voivodeship Office or consult with a legal professional.

Origin: https://driver-work.com/docs/where-should-a-driver-submit-documents-for-the-first-time-work-permit-application-5/