Planning to work in Poland through a temporary staffing agency? One of the first legal questions you'll face is: what document authorises you to work legally? In Poland, there are two main pathways for non-EU nationals: the employer declaration (oświadczenie) and the work permit (zezwolenie na pracę). Here's what you need to know.
Oświadczenie — the Employer Declaration (Fast Track)
The oświadczenie (pronounced: osh-vyad-che-nyeh) is a simplified work authorisation route available to nationals of specific countries: Ukraine, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova, Armenia, and Russia.
How it works:
- Your employer (e.g. Nexflow as your temporary staffing agency) files the declaration at the local Powiatowy Urząd Pracy (PUP — district employment office)
- The office registers the declaration — typically within a few business days
- Based on the registered declaration, you can apply for a work visa or enter Poland legally
- One declaration = one employer + one job title
- Duration: up to 24 months within a 36-month period
Who qualifies? Nationals of Ukraine, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova, Armenia, Russia.
Special note for Ukrainian nationals: Ukrainians who arrived in Poland after 24 February 2022 due to the war may be covered by the special provisions of the Ukrainian Citizens Assistance Act. Under the "UKR" status, they may work legally without an oświadczenie or work permit — a written notification by the employer to the relevant office is sufficient. Conditions and deadlines change frequently, so always verify the current rules with your Nexflow coordinator.
Zezwolenie na pracę — the Formal Work Permit
If you don't qualify for the simplified declaration route (or need a longer employment period), your employer applies for a formal work permit (zezwolenie na pracę) from the Urząd Wojewódzki (Voivodeship Office).
Most common type: Work Permit Type A
- For a foreigner working in Poland under a contract with a Polish entity
- Issued by the Voivodeship Office where the employer is registered
- Processing time: several weeks to a few months (varies by region)
- Validity: up to 3 years (renewable)
- The employer must demonstrate that the position could not be filled by an EU national (labour market test) — some occupations are exempt
For typical temporary warehouse or logistics work, the oświadczenie (faster, simpler) or Type A work permit (for longer contracts or nationals outside the fast-track list) is most commonly used.
What Does Nexflow Handle?
As a licensed temporary staffing agency (KRAZ-registered), Nexflow takes care of all legal formalities on your behalf:
- Files the oświadczenie or work permit application
- Tells you exactly which documents are needed from you (passport copy, photos, etc.)
- Tracks document expiry dates
- Assists with renewals when your contract is extended
You don't need to navigate government offices alone — your Nexflow coordinator will guide you through every step.
Documents Typically Required from You
For the oświadczenie process, you usually need:
- Valid passport (copy)
- Passport-sized photos
- Contact details (your address in Poland or abroad)
- In some cases: a criminal record clearance certificate
What Happens If You Work Without Valid Authorisation?
Working without a valid legal document carries serious risks:
- Deportation and a ban on re-entering the Schengen Area
- A fine for the employer of up to PLN 30,000
- No employment law protection and no ZUS social insurance coverage
Working through Nexflow guarantees you are legally employed with full protection under Polish labour law.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Oświadczenie (Declaration) | Zezwolenie Type A (Permit) |
|---|---|---|
| Countries eligible | UA, BY, GE, MD, AM, RU | All nationalities |
| Processing time | A few business days | Several weeks to months |
| Validity | Up to 24 months | Up to 3 years |
| Who files | Employer (Nexflow) | Employer (Nexflow) |
| Where | District employment office | Voivodeship office |
Have questions about your legal status? Reach out to your Nexflow coordinator — we'll walk you through every step of the process.