Seasonal Work Permit vs. Voivodeship Work Permit

Seasonal Work Permit vs. Voivodeship Work Permit

Both permits provide legal employment in Poland, but they cater to different needs and job types. Here’s a comparison of their advantages and disadvantages:


Advantages of a Seasonal Work Permit (Valid for up to 9 months)

  • Faster Processing – Issued in as little as 10 days, making it ideal for those looking for quick employment.
  • Lower Cost – Usually cheaper than a Voivodeship work permit, especially with promotional offers.
  • Easier to Obtain – Requires fewer formalities, making visa approval more straightforward.
  • Suitable for Temporary Jobs – Ideal for agriculture, hospitality, retail, logistics, and seasonal construction work.
  • Employer Commitment – Employers are more willing to hire seasonal workers due to the shorter contract duration and simplified hiring process.

Disadvantages of a Seasonal Work Permit

  • Short-Term Validity – Limited to 9 months within a calendar year; requires re-application if you wish to continue working.
  • Limited Job Opportunities – Only available for seasonal sectors like agriculture, hospitality, logistics, and retail.
  • No Direct Residence Permit Pathway – Unlike the Voivodeship permit, a seasonal work permit does not lead to a residence permit.

Advantages of a Voivodeship Work Permit (Valid for 1-3 years, renewable)

  • Longer Employment Duration – Valid for 1-3 years with the option to renew.
  • More Job Opportunities – Suitable for manufacturing, IT, construction, logistics, healthcare, and skilled professions.
  • Leads to a Residence Permit – After 3 months of continuous employment, workers can apply for a temporary residence permit (up to 3 years).
  • More Stability for Employers – Companies prefer Voivodeship permits for skilled and long-term workers.

Disadvantages of a Voivodeship Work Permit

  • Slower Processing Time – Takes 45-65 days to be issued, compared to 10 days for a seasonal permit.
  • Higher Cost – The total processing fee is usually higher than that of a seasonal permit.
  • More Documentation Required – The application process is more complex and requires additional paperwork.

Which One Should You Choose?

  • 🔹 Choose a Seasonal Work Permit if you want fast processing, short-term work, and jobs in agriculture, hospitality, or logistics.
  • 🔹 Choose a Voivodeship Work Permit if you are looking for long-term employment, a wider range of job opportunities, and the possibility of applying for a residence permit.