Work and Internships
Poland is a fantastic place to start your career
It is an excellent choice to begin your professional career in Poland. The Polish economy is improving in terms of both competitiveness and social responsibility. Last year, there were twice as many foreign companies registered in Poland as there were five years earlier, including Silicon Valley investors. Poland is the sixth largest economy in the European Union. The country's GDP per capita has increased by 135% since 1989. Poland has become one of the most attractive investment destinations thanks to a strong economy, a wide range of investment incentives, and comprehensive government support. According to calculations, profit from invested foreign capital can be three times higher in Poland than in other European countries. CD Projekt, LPP (Cropp, Reserved, Sinsay, House, Mohito), Asseco, and Solaris Bus & Coach all made their homes in Poland.
Your primary focus should be on your studies
If you find a part-time job, you can technically work as much as you want. Unlike in other countries, there are no prohibitions on this. But keep in mind. You're going to study in Poland. And you'll be focused on coming to class, working on assignments, and passing your classes.
Can I work in Poland?
To be able to study in Poland, a non-EU/EEA students must demonstrate that they possess sufficient means to cover the costs of living in Poland. Still, some students may wish to combine studies with work. All full-time students who possess a student visa or a temporary residence permit (see VISA & APPLICATION ), EU/EEA citizens and holders of the Card of the Pole do not need a work permit at all.
For more information, please visit the websites of the International Organization for Migration or the Office for Foreigners.
How can I find a job?
There are many jobs that do not require the knowledge of Polish language, however, it is always better to have a basic understanding of this language.
Use the online job boards to find the job that could suit you:
Almost every university in Poland has a career office. The Career Development Office assists students and graduates in finding them a suitable place on the labour market. Feel free to contact them, usually they are very helpful!
Internships
Having an internship gives you experience in the career field you want to pursue. Not only does this give individuals an edge over other candidates when applying for jobs, it also prepares you for what to expect in their field and increases confidence in their work.
Most of the internships in Poland are paid. You can find internships on the exactly same job boards that we have shared before. There are some student organizations in Poland that could support you as well:
- AIESEC organizes internship placements in Poland. Visit your home country’s AIESEC site to learn about the application process.
- IAESTE arranges internships in engineering, natural sciences and other technical fields. Contact your home country’s local IAESTE committee for more info
- Erasmus + offers scholarships to students lasting up to 12 months per study cycle. But only a handful know that this period can be used for an internship, not only for a study exchange program.
Our tips to find a job in Poland:
- Start early – some companies recruit interns a year in advance
- Create a killer CV
- Update your LinkedIn profile
- Contact your university’s career center
- Email companies directly
- Expand your network
What to do after graduation?
As a graduate of a Polish higher education institution full-time program, you don’t need a permit to work here. Just make sure your temporary residence permit is in order.
Good luck in the work search in Poland!