In short
The temporary residence permit for studies (Art. 144 of the Act on Foreigners) covers full-time first- and second-cycle studies, long-cycle master's programmes and doctoral schools. Since 27 April 2026 the application is filed only in MOS, and the university completes and electronically signs Annex 5. The application must be filed in Poland, no later than the last day of legal stay.
Conditions for the permit
- admission to or continuation of studies at a higher education institution – approved by the minister of the interior where approval is required;
- Annex 5, completed and electronically signed by a person authorised by the university (the MOS link is valid for 30 days);
- health insurance or confirmation that medical costs in Poland are covered;
- funds for living costs – according to voivodeship offices, more than PLN 1,010 net per month for a single person after accommodation costs – and, separately, funds for the return journey;
- for paid programmes – proof of payment of the semester or year fee.
The stamp duty for the permit is PLN 340; a separate fee is payable for issuing the residence card, as instructed by the office.
How long is the permit granted for?
- first permit in the first year of studies – generally 15 months (shorter if the programme is shorter);
- a further permit for continuing studies – the remaining period of study plus 3 months, up to a maximum of 3 years;
- doctoral school – 2 years and 6 months for the first permit; for a further permit, the length of the programme plus 6 months, no longer than 3 years.
The MOS application step by step
- The student creates a MOS account (login via login.gov.pl) and completes the application.
- The form asks for the university's email address; the system sends the university a link to Annex 5.
- Once the university has signed the annex, the student signs the application with a trusted profile, a qualified electronic signature or a personal signature (e-ID).
- The office summons the student in person – to show the passport and give fingerprints and a specimen signature.
If you apply during your legal stay and the application has no formal defects, or you correct them in time, your stay is generally legal until the decision becomes final (except while the case is suspended at your request). We help you plan the timing so that the university's annex is ready before your legal stay ends.
After graduation
A graduate of a Polish university can, once and immediately after completing studies, apply for a 9-month temporary residence permit to look for work or start a business (Art. 186(1)(6) of the Act on Foreigners). The next step is often residence for work – see work legalisation – or family reunification.
Frequently asked questions
Can I apply for a student residence card from abroad?
No. The application is filed in Poland during legal stay – no later than its last day. People who are abroad usually come to Poland on a visa first.
What is Annex 5?
It is the part of the application completed and electronically signed by the university. Since 27 April 2026 it has replaced the former certificate of admission or continuation of studies. Without the signed annex the application cannot be filed.
Does this permit cover part-time studies?
The permit for studies covers full-time first- and second-cycle studies, long-cycle master's programmes and doctoral schools. For other forms of study, a different residence basis is needed – we will check which one.
How much does a student residence permit cost?
The stamp duty for the permit is PLN 340. A separate fee is payable for issuing the residence card, as instructed by the office.
What happens after I graduate?
Immediately after completing studies, a graduate of a Polish university can obtain, once, a 9-month temporary residence permit to look for work or start a business.
Law and information as of October 2026.