Continuing your stay and replacing a residence card

A further temporary residence application and replacement of the physical residence card serve different purposes.

Permit or card?

A temporary residence permit does not automatically renew because the plastic card is replaced. To continue staying on a temporary basis, check whether you need a further permit for the same or a different purpose. A person with an indefinite residence status may instead need a new physical card without reapplying for that underlying status.

Prepare before expiry

Read your decision and current procedure, check your last day of lawful stay and arrange the supporting documents early. A further work, study or business application generally requires current evidence, not only the previous decision. Use the submission method prescribed for the new application and keep its receipt.

During the proceedings

The rules on lawful stay while an application is pending depend on timely submission and the applicable formal conditions. Respond to requests within the stated deadline. Check work rights separately; an application receipt is not universal permission to work.

Travel and replacement

A certificate confirming a pending residence application does not itself authorise Schengen travel or re-entry into Poland. Before leaving, verify a valid passport and an independent basis for return. For an expiring, lost, damaged or inaccurate residence card, use the correct card-issue or replacement procedure and observe its reporting deadlines.

Editorial summary checked against official sources: 2026-10-25

• Residence for business activity: official requirements
• Replacement of a residence card
• Entry and short-stay requirements
• Temporary residence and work: official requirements