As in the other countries of Eastern Europe, Poland’s work visa and residency permit rules are designed to protect the Polish work force from foreign competition, particularly during these times of high unemployment.

Because the Polish government has experienced many difficulties since 1989 – prime ministers have come and gone, scandals are common, and reviving the stagnant economy remains a Herculean task – don’t count on the rules staying the same.

Americans don’t need a visa to enter Poland, but they do require both a work permit and residency status for stays longer than ninety days. Because of the high rate of unemployment, foreigners who are looking for jobs often find it difficult to get work papers.

Though big business has made quick advances in the largest and most religious of the countries of Eastern, it is not as popular a destination among North American expats as the Czech Republic or Hungary. This is not to say that it isn’t an interesting or appealing choice.

Here is a list of Polish consulates and embassies in USA that can help you with any questions related to visas you may need:

Embassy of the Republic of Poland

2640 16th Street NW

Washington, DC 20009

Phone: (202) 234-3800

Consulate General of the Republic of Poland

12400 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 555

Los Angeles, CA 90025

Phone: (310) 442-8500

Consulate General of the Republic of Poland

1540 N Lake Shore Drive

Chicago, IL 60610

Phone: (312) 337-8166

Consulate General of the Republic of Poland

233 Madison Avenue

New York, NY 10016

Phone: (212) 889-8360

Do następnego razu… (Till next time…)