EU long-term resident card - What are the pros?
What is the card of a long-term EU resident, what does it give and why should you apply for it? This is a document that a foreigner can obtain after five years of continuous residence in Poland. Among other things, it allows legal residence in Poland without the need for other documents, such as a work permit or a temporary residence card. However, in order to obtain a resident's card, one must gather the appropriate documents and submit an application. Read our article and find out how to get all the paperwork.
Long-term resident - who is it?
Who is an EU long-term resident and what does a resident card give you? This is a person who has the right to legally reside and work in the Republic of Poland. He can also move around the Schengen area for no more than 90 days in a 180-day period. He also has the opportunity to work in certain countries of the European Union under the conditions specified in the laws of the country.
Such a document is issued indefinitely, although the card itself must be replaced once every five years.
What requirements must be met?
A long-term resident's card can be obtained by a person who:
- has resided legally and continuously in the Republic of Poland for at least five years,
- has a stable and regular source of income for at least 3 years,
- confirms knowledge of the Polish language at least at B1 level,
- has health insurance,
- has a guaranteed right to housing.
What documents to prepare?
To obtain a long-term resident card, prepare the following documents:
- two copies of a completed application for a long-term resident's EU residence permit in Polish;
- an original foreign passport with two photocopies of all written pages containing stamps, endorsements and entries. The original passport must be presented at the time of application, but it will be returned at the same visit and will not be kept in the office at any stage of the procedure;
- four recent photographs as required;
- documents confirming 5 years of legal and uninterrupted residence in Poland, for example, a photocopy of the previous passport with visas and stamps confirming exits and arrivals to Poland. The original should be presented for inspection;
- additional documents that will confirm the information contained in the application and justify the application for a permit, for example, employment contracts, PIT-37/PIT-11 tax returns, legal title to the premises;
- official certification of knowledge of the Polish language.
How to submit the application?
The application with the above-mentioned documents should be submitted no later than on the last day of legal residence in Poland to the provincial office competent for the place of residence, together with proof of payment of stamp duty. It amounts to 640 zlotys, but is refunded in full in case of a negative decision. If the decision is positive, an additional 50 zlotys must be paid for the issuance of the card.
Once the application is accepted, the governor will place a stamp confirming the application in the foreigner's passport. It allows legal residence in the Republic of Poland until the day the application is considered (positive or negative).
The waiting time for a decision is individual, but usually lasts up to 3 months.
If the decision is negative, the foreigner has the right to appeal. However, if he has no other valid document legalizing his stay in Poland, he must leave the country.
Summary
What is a long-term resident's card and what does it give? It is a document that allows legal residence and work in Poland and travel within the Schengen area. It is issued to foreigners who have resided in Poland for at least 5 years and meet certain requirements. The application should be submitted to the provincial office.
Having trouble collecting all the documents or don't know how to appeal the decision? Apply to us! Kancelaria ds. Obywatelskich will take care of all the formalities.
