Choosing a residence procedure and applying through MOS

Start with your nationality, current status and actual reason for living in Poland; then choose the correct application and submission method.

Start with the correct procedure

A visa, a residence permit and a residence card are different documents. Identify your current legal basis of stay, its expiry and the reason you need to remain: employment, family, studies or business. EU citizens and their family members use specific procedures.

Prepare your application

For applications covered by the current MOS electronic procedure, prepare a valid travel document, digital photograph, required attachments and an accepted electronic signature. Work and study applications can require an attachment signed by an employer or university. Check the checklist for your own category before paying the applicable fees.

Submit and keep proof

Sign and send the completed application and download the official acknowledgement of receipt (UPO). Saving a draft, creating an account or booking an appointment does not submit an application. Monitor official requests and attend any appointment for originals, fingerprints or a signature specimen.

Check the exceptions

Not every procedure uses the same electronic route. The Office for Foreigners lists exceptions, including certain family applications where the person concerned is outside Poland. Citizenship is a separate procedure. Use the current official instructions and submit during a lawful stay where the chosen route requires it.

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

• Temporary residence and work: official requirements
• Study residence: official requirements