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Income criterion: necessary income for the residence card and benefits

Many immigrants residing in the Republic of Poland are aware that a residence card (karta pobytu) or a temporary residence permit (TRP) is required for legal residence in the country. Therefore, those who plan to stay for a long time address this matter as soon as they arrive.
A residence card can be obtained by declaring income. However, there is a specific minimum income threshold below which obtaining a TRP is not possible. This rule also applies to other forms of assistance.
According to a resolution by the Council of Ministers, the income criteria are set to change starting January 1, 2025. To submit an application for a TRP, the minimum income must be at least PLN 4626 gross. This regulation applies to all foreigners planning to apply for a residence card. The only exceptions are cases where documents are submitted for family reunification or under other specific grounds. It is recommended to review the new resolution in advance to stay informed and ensure legal residence in the country.
What is a Residence Card?
A residence card (karta pobytu) or TRP is a document issued to foreigners, granting them the right to stay in Poland for more than three months. It can be issued based on employment or without it, depending on the grounds for obtaining it. The residence card allows individuals to apply for permanent residence after three or five years of living in the country. Staying in Poland for an additional three years enables an application for citizenship.
The residence card is available to all immigrants who can document valid grounds for residing in Poland, such as employment, entrepreneurship, or studies.
Income Criteria for Obtaining a Residence Card: Basics
Under the new rules effective January 1, 2025, an individual must have a net monthly income of at least PLN 1010. For families, the required amount is PLN 823 per family member per month. Therefore, when applying for a residence card, it is crucial to consider total income sufficient to support all family members.
Required Incomes for Obtaining a TRP:
- Single person - over PLN 1010/net per month
- Family of 2 persons - above 1646 PLN net
- Family of 3 persons - 2469+ PLN
- Family of 4 persons - 3292+ PLN
- Family of 5 persons - 4115+ PLN
Applicants must provide information about their income if applying for a residence card based on employment. The income must comply with the new regulations. If the income does not meet the criteria, measures must be taken to address the issue. For example, if one family member applies for a residence card and supports three other family members, their income must be at least PLN 3392 net per month.
Read also: Financial assistance to refugees from Ukraine to rent housing
When is Income Considered for Obtaining a Residence Card?
Income information is required to determine eligibility for a residence card based on employment. However, there are other grounds for obtaining a TRP, including:
- Volunteering or Internship. Volunteers can receive a one-year residence permit if they participate in a volunteer organization. They must provide a labor contract with the organization. Interns can obtain a six-month residence card if they intern at a local company. For this, they need to submit a higher education diploma and proof of completing Polish language courses.
- Education. Young people pursuing studies at a Polish university are eligible for a TRP.
- Family Reunification. TRP applications can be submitted by the spouse of a Polish citizen, or their children under 18 who are financially dependent or require care due to illness.
- Scientific Activities. Individuals with a master's degree may apply for a residence card by indicating scientific activity in their application and providing an employment contract with a Polish company.
Since 2002, specific income criteria for such grounds have been set at PLN 600 and PLN 776 net. Applicants under these categories may also qualify for special benefits.
Will the Income Criteria Increase Annually?
According to Poland's Ministry of Social Policy, income criteria will increase automatically each year. This is due to the regular rise in minimum and average wages and inflation. The last adjustment to income criteria occurred in 2022, but since then, prices for goods and services have significantly increased.
What to Do If Documents Have Already Been Submitted?
If you have started the process and submitted all necessary documents but the decision is expected in early 2025 or later, you should provide an updated labor contract showing the increased salary. If the decision has already been made, there is no need to worry.
If the TRP is issued based on employment, employers are not allowed to lower the salary. Additionally, from 2025, all internal pay rates must comply with the new regulations, as paying less than the minimum wage will be prohibited in the country.
Elena Chernenko
Elena is a recognized expert in the bus transportation industry. With a deep understanding of the industry and a wealth of experience, Elena has earned a reputation for reliability working with both large carriers and private companies. Her expertise includes route planning, safety analysis and efficiency of transportation solutions.
In her blog, Elena offers professional advice, reviews current market trends and shares her experience to help readers better understand the world of bus transportation.
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