Sitting comfortably in your armchair, you browsed job offers abroad and found the right one — a move to Poland. You already have your visa, you have packed your suitcase and you have arrived in a new country. Your first job in Poland, new responsibilities and a new life await. But before you start your career adventure, you need to remember a few important formalities.
In this article we explain step by step what you need to arrange after arriving in Poland in order to work legally and start your job with peace of mind.
PESEL — the most important number in Poland
The PESEL number is an 11-digit identifier given to all citizens and foreigners living in Poland. It is absolutely essential for legal work. You will use it when signing your employment contract, at public offices and at the doctor’s — in both public and private healthcare.
You can get a PESEL number at the municipal office (urząd gminy) by submitting an application and showing an identity document (such as your passport). In most cases, the number is issued the same day.
A Polish phone number — convenient and cheaper
Having a Polish phone number makes everyday life much easier. It means you will:
- avoid high roaming charges,
- find it easier to contact your employer,
- deal with offices and banks faster.
You can buy a SIM starter pack at a kiosk or shop, and registration takes a few minutes. To talk to your family abroad, you can use apps such as WhatsApp, Telegram or Viber.
A bank account — fast pay and convenience
Most companies in Poland pay only by bank transfer. That is why your employer will ask for the number of the bank account into which your salary will be paid every month.
If you use a foreign account, transfers may be delayed and currency conversion will cost extra. By opening an account at a Polish bank you will:
- receive your pay faster,
- be able to use BLIK, a popular mobile payment system in Poland,
- make domestic transfers easily and without extra fees.
Occupational health checks and the sanitary-epidemiological certificate
Every worker in Poland must undergo an occupational health check. The doctor will assess whether you are fit to work in the given position. Depending on the type of work, this may include:
- basic tests (blood pressure, blood count, urine),
- specialist tests (eye, ENT, neurological, psychotechnical tests, chest X-ray, spirometry).
If you will work in the food industry or in contact with food, you will also need a sanitary-epidemiological certificate (książeczka sanepidowska). It confirms that you do not carry dangerous bacteria.
An employment contract — a guarantee of legal employment
Signing an employment contract confirms that your employment in Poland is fully legal. The document contains your details, your employer’s details and your working conditions.
In addition to the contract, you will receive:
- information about your terms of employment,
- information about the processing of personal data,
- information about equal treatment,
- the company’s regulations,
- a confirmation that you have read the work regulations.
A residence card — the right to live and work in Poland
If you plan a longer stay, you must apply for a residence card. It confirms that your stay is legal and gives you the right to work in Poland.
For the application you will need:
- your employment contract,
- your passport and visa,
- photos,
- fingerprints (taken at the office).
Waiting for a residence card usually takes 3 to 12 months. During this time, the confirmation that you have submitted your application is enough — always carry it with you.
Support from Alimat Group
All these formalities may seem complicated. But with Alimat Group you do not have to worry about anything. After you arrive in Poland, we will:
- take you to our office in Kutno,
- help you at the offices with your PESEL and residence card,
- book an appointment with an occupational health doctor,
- provide transport and accommodation close to your workplace.
With us you will start working in Poland easily and can focus on what matters most — your new life and career.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
How long does it take to get a PESEL number in Poland?
You can get a PESEL number even on the same day if your documents are in order.
Is a Polish bank account compulsory for foreigners?
No, but it makes work and everyday life much easier.
How long does it take to get a residence card?
From 3 to 12 months — during this time, a certificate from the office confirms that your stay is legal.
Can I work in Poland without speaking Polish?
Yes, many foreigners find work without knowing the language, especially in production or catering.
