Residence in Poland
This section covers staying in Poland legally as a foreigner: residence permits, the MOS online system, the karta pobytu, fingerprints, application status and waiting times.
How it fits together
A residence permit is the decision that lets you stay in Poland. Applications for a temporary residence permit, a permanent residence permit and an EU long-term resident permit are handled by voivodeship offices (the regional government offices).
MOS is the online portal where those applications are submitted. Since 27 April 2026 it is the only way to submit them, with a few exceptions.
The karta pobytu (residence card) is the physical card issued once a permit is granted. Your fingerprints are taken for it during an in-person visit to the office.
We are starting with MOS because it is the newest part of the process and the one with the least plain-language information. Guides to individual permit types will follow.
MOS
MOS is the online portal where foreigners in Poland apply for residence permits. Since 27 April 2026 it is the only way to submit most applications. This page explains each step and links to a detailed guide for each one.
MOS Poland: how the residence permit system works
- What happens after submitting through MOS?
- What happens at the fingerprint appointment?
- How do MOS fingerprints work in Warsaw?
- When do you get a MOS case number?
- How do I check my MOS application status?
- How long does a residence permit take after applying in MOS?
- How long is the residence permit wait in Warsaw?