Law

Immigrate to Poland from South Africa

Our team of lawyers can help you immigrate to Poland from South Africa. We provide comprehensive legal assistance throughout the entire process, ensuring that all necessary documentation and permits are obtained efficiently and accurately. With the help of our immigration lawyers in Poland, you can navigate the complexities of international relocation with confidence, knowing that your legal matters are in capable hands.

Types of visas to move to Poland from South Africa

If you are planning to move to Poland from South Africa, these are the visa types you can consider: 

Transit visa (Type A)

The transit visa (Type A) is intended for travelers passing through Poland en route to their destination in another country. This visa allows for a short stay in Poland during transit.

Short-term visas (Type C)

Short-term visas (Type C) are commonly known as Schengen visas and are available for various purposes, including:

  • business visits,
  • cultural exchanges,
  • medical treatment,
  • official visits,
  • sports events,
  • study programs,
  • tourism (Poland tourist visa),
  • visiting family or friends,
  • other short-term stays in Poland.

If you are interested in Poland migration on any of the visas above, the services of our lawyers are at your disposal.

Long-term visas (Type D, National)

Long-term visas (type D, National) permit extended stays in Poland, generally up to one year, and are granted for specific purposes, such as:

  • Poland working visa: For individuals intending to work in Poland for an extended period.
  • Poland student visa: For those enrolled in educational programs in Poland.
  • other long-term stays in Poland for various purposes.

These visas serve as legal documents allowing entry and stay in Poland for specific durations and purposes, each with its own set of eligibility criteria and application requirements. It’s essential to understand the specific visa type that aligns with your intended activities in Poland and to ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and procedures during the application process. If you are interested in immigrating to Poland from South Africa on any of the visas discussed above, our lawyers can assist you. 

Once you move to Poland from South Africa, our lawyers can also further help you with residency. Please note that obtaining permanent residence in Poland offers individuals the opportunity to settle in the country indefinitely. It allows holders to live, work, and study in Poland without the need for additional visas or permits. 

Immigrate to Poland from South Africa as an employee

Employment is a great way to relocate to Poland from South Africa, considering work permits can be obtained as follows:

  • by signing an employment agreement with a Polish employer, followed by immigration to Poland;
  • by relocating as a board member of a Polish company, however, this type of work permit enables a South African citizen to stay here between 6 and 12 months;
  • by intra-company transfer for South African citizens relocated to work in a Polish branch of a foreign company;
  • by moving to Poland and providing specific services for a Polish company.

There are also other means to immigrate to Poland from South Africa as an employee, and they are all covered by an E work visa.

Please note that specific steps must be completed for this type of relocation, among which we mention the most important:

  • the labor contract must be signed prior to coming to Poland;
  • the employee must also pass a physical examination and obtain a health certificate;
  • the South African worker must also provide proof of his/her qualifications for the job.

Considering work-based relocation also implies for the employer to perform certain actions, our Polish immigration lawyers can assist both parties involved in the process.

What is the fastest way for a South African citizen to obtain permanent residency?

Family reunification is by far the fastest pathway to permanent residency in Poland. However, those who want to immigrate to Poland from South Africa this way must know that marriage leads to becoming a permanent resident under the following conditions:

  • the applicant must have lived in Poland for at least 3 years;
  • 2 of the respective years must have been during the marriage with the Polish national.

Regular permanent residency can be obtained after 5 years of living here. Please note that no matter the way you intend to become a permanent resident, additional requirements must be met. This is why we recommend relying on our immigration lawyers in Poland for verifying your eligibility. Similar aspects must be considered when applying for citizenship in Poland.

Documents required when moving to Poland

Here are the main documents to prepare when relocating to Poland from South Africa:

  • a valid passport;
  • an application form;
  • proof of accommodation (a rental agreement is the fastest to obtain);
  • proof of financial sustainability.

When filing for permanent residency or Polish citizenship, similar paperwork is required. In terms of financial means of sustenance, the evidence must be submitted under the form of income obtained in Poland.

Do I need health insurance before moving to Poland from South Africa?

Yes, if you are immigrating to Poland from South Africa, you are required to have health insurance. Under Polish law, all citizens and legal residents are entitled to healthcare and equal access to medical services. Free public healthcare is provided to those with coverage under the National Health Fund.

Medical care is available to all uninsured individuals, but they are responsible for covering the costs. It’s advisable to have travel health insurance, even if you are moving to Poland for a short period. Employees in Poland automatically receive public healthcare coverage if they are working there. 

Additionally, EU residents staying in Poland can apply for the European Health Insurance Card, granting them access to Polish public healthcare services on par with citizens. In Poland, employers typically offer private healthcare insurance to their employees alongside public coverage, demonstrating a strong commitment to social responsibility. If you are interested in relocating to Poland from South Africa on a work visa, you might not need to worry about covering health costs, because it is the job of your employer. 

Cost of living in Poland compared to other countries

If you immigrate to Poland from South Africa, you should have information about the cost of living. Poland offers a more affordable cost of living compared to other European countries such as Spain, Portugal, and the UK.

  • the average cost of living in Poland is approximately 52.03% cheaper than in the USA;
  • monthly expenses for living, dining, and transportation typically total around USD 500;

Average costs for core aspects of everyday expenses in Poland include:

  • rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center: USD 502.81
  • basic bills (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) for a small apartment: USD 180.95
  • monthly transportation pass: USD 20.49

If you want to learn more about these costs before immigrating to Poland, our lawyers can guide you.

Additionally, we offer legal assistance in various other areas requiring expert insight. For example, if you are eligible to pursue Polish citizenship, our team can provide guidance and support throughout the application process. This includes assessing your eligibility criteria, compiling necessary documentation, and navigating any legal complexities involved in obtaining Polish citizenship. Whether you’re seeking citizenship through ancestry, marriage, or naturalization, contact our experienced legal professionals who are here to assist you every step of the way.