Voivodeship Work Invitation from a Transport Company (Poland)
Official basis for obtaining a national work visa (type D)
What is commonly referred to as a “Voivodeship Invitation” is in fact a Type A Work Permit (Zezwolenie na pracę typ A) issued by the Voivodeship Office upon the application of a Polish employer.
This document serves as the basis for obtaining a type D national work visa, allowing the holder to legally work in Poland.
In the transport industry, this format is most often used for international drivers (C/CE category).
Who it is for
- Drivers holding C/CE driving licences, code 95, and a tachograph card (or willing to obtain them).
- Candidates who already have a Polish employer (transport company) ready to submit the application.
- Those planning long-term work and stable entry to the EU on a Polish visa.
What the document provides
- Legal basis for obtaining a type D national visa.
- The right to work legally for the specified employer.
- Validity period of up to 36 months (determined by the Voivode).
- The right to travel within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within each 180-day period (in line with visa rules).
What’s included in the employer’s package
- Zezwolenie na pracę typ A — indicating the employer, position kierowca międzynarodowy, work location, conditions, pay rate, and duration.
- Cover letter or job offer (oferta pracy) — if required.
- Company registration documents (KRS/NIP/REGON) — if needed by the consulate.
The document is strictly tied to a specific employer and position. Changing the employer requires a new permit.
Step-by-step procedure
- Application by employer: The transport company submits an application to the Voivodeship Office.
- Permit issuance: The Voivode issues the Type A Work Permit (typically 4–10 weeks).
- Visa application: The candidate applies for a D-type visa at the Polish consulate or visa center.
- Arrival and work start: Medical check-up, health & safety training (BHP), registration with the employer, tachograph card, and code 95 (if required).
Processing time
- Employer preparation: 1–3 weeks
- Voivode processing: 4–10 weeks
- Visa issuance: 2–6 weeks. Total estimated time: 3–4 months “end-to-end” (may vary depending on region and queue length).
Required from the candidate
- Valid passport (with sufficient validity).
- Photo 3.5×4.5 cm and completed form/resume.
- C/CE driving licence, code 95, and tachograph card (or readiness to obtain them).
- Proof of accommodation and health insurance.
- Certificate of no criminal record and document translations (as required by the consulate).
Conditions and restrictions
- Work is allowed only for the employer specified in the permit.
- Changing the employer requires a new Zezwolenie.
- The visa decision is made by the consulate.
- Accuracy of documents and purpose of stay are essential for approval.
Frequently asked questions
Does this “Voivodeship invitation” guarantee a visa?
No. It’s a legal basis for the visa, but the final decision is made by the consulate.
Can I change my employer after entering Poland?
Only after obtaining a new work permit. Working for another company without one is a violation of visa conditions.
How long is the document valid?
Up to 36 months, depending on the Voivode’s decision and regional procedures.
Can I travel within the EU?
Yes, within the Schengen zone rules — up to 90 days within each 180-day period. Poland remains your main place of residence and employment.
Why this option is reliable for drivers
- Designed for long-term employment.
- Transparent conditions: specific employer, “international driver” position, official pay rate.
- Avoids frequent renewals of short-term permits.
How we help
- We prepare and coordinate the employer’s application package.
- We monitor the issuance of the Type A Work Permit.
- We assist with the visa D documentation and submission.
- We guide you through each step — from preparation to starting work in Poland.