Introduction
A long-term EU resident is a person who has the right of permanent residence in one of the member states of the European Union. This means that he or she can move and reside freely in the territory of all EU countries, and enjoy the rights and privileges as any citizen of the country.
How can I get advice or assistance in obtaining a document authorizing me to stay and work in Poland?
In order to obtain the status of a long-term EU resident in Poland, a number of requirements must be met, such as:
– having legal residence in Poland for at least 5 years,
– knowledge of the Polish language at A2 level,
– no conviction for an intentional crime,
– no threat to state security.
Factors for obtaining the status of a long-term EU resident.
Duration of stay
The most important requirement for obtaining the status of long-term EU resident is to have legal residence in Poland for at least 5 years. This period includes:
– the entire period of residence in Poland under a temporary or permanent residence permit,
– the entire period of residence in Poland under a visa-free regime,
– the entire period of residence in another EU member state on the basis of a long-term EU residence permit.
A necessary condition for maintaining the required period of residence in Poland, is that the period of residence cannot be interrupted for more than 6 months in a year.
Knowledge of the Polish language
Another requirement is knowledge of the Polish language at A2 level. To confirm your knowledge of Polish, you will need to submit an appropriate document, such as a language certificate or a certificate from your university.
No criminal record
A third-country national who applies for EU long-term resident status must not have been convicted of an intentional crime.
No threat to state security
A third-country national who applies for EU long-term resident status must not pose a threat to state security.
Applicable documentation
An application for long-term EU resident status must be submitted in person to the Provincial Office having jurisdiction over the applicant’s place of residence. The application must be accompanied by the following documents:
– completed application,
– identity card or passport,
– confirmation of legal residence in Poland for at least 5 years,
– certificate of knowledge of the Polish language,
– certificate of no criminal record,
– certificate of no threat to state security.
Application fee
The application fee for long-term EU resident status is PLN 350.
Time for processing the application
The Provincial Office considers the application for long-term EU resident status within 60 days from the date of submission.
Granting the status
If the application is granted, the Provincial Office issues a decision to grant the status of long-term EU resident. This decision is valid for a period of 10 years.
Necessary information
A third-country national who has obtained the status of a long-term EU resident has the right to:
- to move and reside freely in the territory of all EU member states,
- to work in any EU member state,
- benefit from health care on the same terms as citizens of the respective member state,
- benefit from social assistance on the same terms as citizens of the respective member state,
- apply for citizenship of a given member state.
Summary
Obtaining the status of a long-term resident of the EU is a favorable solution for citizens of third countries who reside on the territory of Poland for a longer period of time. Having the status gives the possibility of permanent residence, easy access to the labor market and acquiring education on the territory of our country.
