Poland has officially introduced tougher immigration rules for international students and foreign workers, aiming to better regulate its growing migrant population. These new measures are designed to tighten entry pathways, ensure genuine educational enrollment, and prevent misuse of work and study visas.

What’s Changing in Poland’s Immigration Policy?

According to Poland’s Ministry of Internal Affairs, the new policies focus on three main areas:

1. Stricter Rules for International Students

• Only accredited institutions listed in the official register can now accept foreign students.

• Verification of enrollment is mandatory — immigration officials will confirm whether applicants are genuinely enrolled.

• Students found to be misusing their visa (e.g., not attending classes or not residing in Poland) may face revocation of residence permits and removal orders.

2. Tighter Scrutiny for Foreign Workers

• New checks are being enforced to ensure that jobs offered to foreigners are real and necessary.

• Fake job offers and ghost employers will be heavily penalized.

• Residence permits may be cancelled if the foreign worker is not actually employed or is found violating the terms of stay.

3. Increased Oversight for Residence Permits

• Residence cards may now be revoked more easily in cases of:

  • Fraudulent documents

  • False job offers

  • Fake university enrollments

  • Irregular employment

Why the Changes?

The Polish government says these updates are essential to maintain integrity in the immigration system, and to avoid abuse of residence permits — especially as the country continues to receive a growing number of foreign students and labor migrants.

Poland’s Interior Minister stated that these actions aim to protect both genuine migrants and the Polish labor market from exploitation and fraud.

What It Means for Aspiring Migrants

If you’re planning to move to Poland for work or study, be extra cautious about your documentation and ensure you’re applying through trusted institutions and employers. Working with licensed immigration consultants can help you stay compliant with the new rules.

✅ Apply only to approved universities
✅ Ensure your job offer is legitimate
✅ Avoid any fake documentation
✅ Follow the terms of your visa carefully