Useful Information

Before the Arrival in Poland:

For detailed information about visa types, health insurance, and preparation for your travel to Poland, please visit the AGH University Welcome to Poland website.

Essential Preparations checklist:

Check Your Passport

Ensure your passport remains valid for the full duration of your stay in Poland.

Visa Requirements

If you’re required to obtain a visa to enter Poland, start the application process well in advance. Contact the Polish embassy or consulate in your country for accurate and up-to-date information. For detailes information about visas.

Health Insurance

Securing health insurance coverage is mandatory. Be sure to review the “Insurance” section for detailed guidance.

Document Copies

For added convenience, travel with certified copies of key personal and medical documents. If possible, have them translated into Polish to avoid complications later.

Photographs for Documents

Bring at least four recent biometric passport-sized photos (35mm x 45mm, color), as they may be needed for official paperwork.

Driving in Poland:

Planning to drive during your stay? Apply for an international driver’s license before departure.

Contact your hosting University to confirm the details of your arrival and stay.

For detailed information about visa types, health insurance, and preparation for your travel to Poland

After the Arrival in Poland

Settling in – first steps after arrival in Krakow checklist:

Understand Legal Obligations

Accommodation Confirmation

Address Registration

University Onboarding

Contracts and Work Formalities

Banking Setup (Optional)

Legalizing Your Stay in Poland

Your legal status in Poland depends on your citizenship and the purpose of your stay.

EU/EEA Citizens

You do not need a visa to enter or stay. For more details, please visit the website below.

If staying longer than 90 days:

• You must register your stay at the Voivodeship Office (Urząd Wojewódzki).

• Registration includes proof of employment, studies, or sufficient income.

Non-EU Citizens

If you’re staying less than 3 months:

• You must register your residential address within 4 days of arrival, unless your stay is shorter than 14 days.

If staying longer than 90 days:

• You are required to apply for a temporary residence permit (Karta Pobytu) before your current visa or residency period ends. The application process can take several months, so it’s best to start early.

• Documents Required for Temporary Residence Application:

Documents Required for Temporary Residence Application:

• A confirmed appointment at the Voivodeship Office.

• A fully completed application form.

• Four recent biometric photos (color, passport format).

• Two photocopies of your valid passport (bring the original with you).

• Documentation proving financial means or employment (such as a job contract).

• Proof of health insurance coverage.

• A rental agreement that includes utility details.

• Confirmation of application fee payment.

• Certified Polish translations of any documents not originally in Polish.

If you need personalized assistance with gathering documents or booking a time slot, reach out to the Welcome Point at your hosting university.

More detailed information about the legalization process in Poland.

Pesel Number

All residents of Poland, including foreigners, need a PESEL number for tax, healthcare, and other administrative matters.

Health Insurance

EU citizens can use the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), while non-EU citizens must ensure they have private health insurance or register with the National Health Fund (NFZ).

Many private clinics and hospitals operate in Kraków, with services often available in English.

Taxation

As a researcher, you’ll likely be subject to Polish tax laws. Check the tax treaties between Poland and your home country to understand exemptions or double taxation avoidance.

Banking & Payments

While not mandatory, opening a Polish bank account can make managing your finances easier, especially for receiving payments like scholarships or salaries.

• Open a local bank account (e.g., mBank, PKO, ING, Santander).

• Required documents (may vary between different banks) : Passport, residence address, sometimes a PESEL number.

• Detailed information and suggested banks.

Housing

There are many housing options available to short and long-term visitors staying in Poland. From hotels and hostels to apartments and shared flats available for rent. Whether you’re planning a short stay or settling in for the long term, there are several accommodation options available for university staff.

University Housing

• Student dormitories – While universities do not guarantee accommodation for staff employees are welcome to apply for a room in one of the student dormitories.

• Student hostels run by the university.

Privately rented accommodation

• Entire houses for rent.

• Private apartments (furnished or unfurnished).

• Individual rooms in shared flats.

You can search on your own (Otodom.pl, OLX.pl, Nieruchomosci-online.pl, Gratka.pl, Facebook groups (e.g., “Kraków apartment rentals”, “Mieszkania Kraków”)or enlist the help of a real estate agent. If you go through an agency, be aware that they typically charge a one-time commission—usually equivalent to one month’s rent—when you sign the lease. Before you rent :review listings thoroughly—advertised rent may not include additional charges such as utilities (electricity, gas, water) or internet.Private rental contracts commonly require a minimum commitment of one year. Be ready to pay a security deposit, often equal to one- or two-months’ rent, at the beginning of the lease

Housing (Kraków, Monthly Averages)

• Entire houses for rent.

• Private apartments (furnished or unfurnished).

• Individual rooms in shared flats.

Type of Apartment

Studio (city center)

Studio (outside center)

Shared flat (per room)

Utility bills (1–2 people)

Price (PLN/month)

2,500–3,500

1,800–2,800

1,200–1,800

500–800

Price (EUR/month)

~570–800

~410–640

~275–410

~115–180

Transportation

• Kraków has a reliable public transport system: trams and buses operated by MPK

• Monthly pass: 79,50 PLN (discounted) –159 PLN (full price)

• Good rail and bus connections with other cities and countries (A4 motorway, trains).

Living in Poland

Living costs vary by city. Kraków, Warsaw, and Wrocław are on the higher end:

Expense

Rent (1BR apartment)

Utilities

Groceries

Public Transport

Internet + Phone

Dining Out

Warsaw (PLN)

3,500

600–900

800–1,200

100–160

100–150

30–70 / meal

Kraków/Gdańsk

2,200–3,500

500–800

Similar

Small City

1,500–2,000

400–600

Similar

80–120

Similar

20–50

In EUR (approx.)

350–800

100–200

200–300

20–40

20–35

6–15

Monthly Expenses (in PLN & EUR/USD approx.)

Working & Living in Poland: A Cultural Guide for Newcomers

Language

Official language – Polish

Foreign languages – English is spoken in cities, especially by younger people.

Learning basic Polish is strongly recommended, especially for dealing with bureaucracy and local services.

Regional dialects – In Małopolska, you might hear local dialects, especially in the countryside and Podhale region (e.g., the highlander/Goral dialect in Zakopane).

Useful phrases:

Dzień dobry

Hello / Good morning

Dziękuję

Thank you

Proszę

Please / You’re welcome

Przepraszam

Excuse me / I’m sorry

Social Etiquette & Communication

Formality matters – Poles tend to be more formal in professional settings. Use titles and last names unless invited to use first names.

Direct communication – Poles usually speak frankly and expect the same. Don’t mistake directness for rudeness-honesty is valued.

Personal space – Physical distance is respected. Handshakes are common greetings, especially in business.

Workplace Culture

Hierarchy is respected – Many workplaces have a clear structure, and decisions often come from the top. Respect for authority is important.

Punctuality is expected – Being on time for meetings and appointments is a sign of professionalism.

Work-life balance – While Poles work hard, evenings and weekends are generally reserved for family and rest.

Academic & Research Environment

Titles and degrees carry weight – Academic achievements are formally recognized, and people are often addressed by their titles (e.g., , Prof.).

Collaboration is growing – Polish institutions are increasingly international, but formalities may differ from what you’re used to. Expect structure and some bureaucracy.

Cultural Values

Family is central – Family plays a big role in Polish life and is a common topic of conversation.

Traditions are strong – Expect traditional holidays (e.g., Christmas Eve, All Saints’ Day) to be widely observed.

Religion influences culture – Poland is predominantly Catholic, and religious customs shape public holidays and social norms.

Everyday Life & Practicalities

Shops may close on Sundays and bank holidays – Most retail stores, especially large supermarkets, are closed on Sundays due to labor laws.

National holidays:

New Year’s Day – Jan 1st

Epiphany - Jan 6th

Easter- March / April

Labour Day May 1st

Constitution Day May 3rd

Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary – 15th Aug

All Saints’ Day Nov 1st

November 11th - Independence Day

Christmas 24th – 26th Dec

Cash and cards – While cards are widely accepted, having some cash is useful, especially at small local markets.

Dining & Hospitality

Meals are structured – Lunch (obiad) is the main hot meal, usually eaten in the early afternoon. Dinner (kolacja) is often lighter.

Invited to someone’s home? – Bring a small gift like flowers, sweets, or wine. It’s considered polite.

Tipping is common – 10% in restaurants is standard if service is good.

Final Tip:Integrating into Polish culture takes time-observe, ask questions, and be open to learning. Poles appreciate when foreigners show interest in their language, customs, and history.