Residence permit decision – important information

Are you applying for a residence permit and wondering how to check the status of your application and what steps to take after receiving the decision? Here is the most important information you need to know.

Residence permit application statuses

Each application for a residence permit goes through several stages of the administrative procedure. You may encounter the following statuses:

Submitted – means that your application has been registered in the office.
Under consideration – the office analyzes the documents provided and conducts administrative proceedings.
Request to supplement documents – if required documents are missing, the office will ask you to provide them.
Completion of proceedings – a decision has been made in your case.
Decision issued – the office has made a final decision, which can be collected in person or received by mail.

Types of decisions and what’s next?

After the proceedings are completed, you may receive one of three decisions:

✔️ Positive decision – if your application has been considered positive, you will receive a residence permit card. It is worth checking the conditions for its collection and by when it should be collected.
❌ Negative decision – means that your application has been rejected. You can appeal within 14 days of the date of delivery of the decision.
⏳ Decision to discontinue the proceedings – if, for example, you have withdrawn your application or left the country, the office may terminate the proceedings without issuing a residence permit.

What to do after receiving the decision?

✅ If you have received a positive decision:

Go to the office to collect your residence permit card.
Check what obligations you have as a residence permit holder (e.g. the obligation to report a change of address).
Make sure your residence permit card is valid and plan to extend it in time.

❗ If you have received a negative decision:

Analyze the justification for the decision and check the possibility of lodging an appeal.
Seek the help of a lawyer specializing in foreigners’ affairs.
Remember that you have 14 days to submit an appeal to the Head of the Office for Foreigners.

If the proceedings have been discontinued:

Check the reasons for the discontinuation and the possibility of re-applying.
If necessary, contact the office for detailed information.

Summary

The decision on a residence permit is a key moment for every foreigner staying in Poland. Regardless of its outcome, it is worth knowing your rights and obligations and knowing what steps to take to avoid legal and administrative problems. If you have any doubts, consult an expert or seek the help of a lawyer specializing in immigration law.

Do you have questions about a residence permit? Contact us – we will help you go through the entire procedure step by step!