6 steps to start an internship in Poland
Most students have a problem managing all important documents and stuff before coming to an internship, but TX will tell you 6 easy steps on how to prepare to get started in an internship in Poland and guide you to show it is not difficult at all
I. DOCUMENTS ENTITLING A FOREIGNER TO WORK IN POLAND ON AN INTERNSHIP
The most important thing for a foreign student (European and non-European) who wants to start an internship in Poland that will get some financial contribution is that it's obligatory to obtain a NIP number (tax identification number). Therefore, it is necessary to fill in a NIP-7 form available on the Ministry of Finance website or in the tax office in every city. Any information regarding this can be found on this file NIP-NUMBER-Poland in a step-by-step guide.
II. VISA & APPLICATION
- Entry requirements for EU citizens:
For under three months' stay, there are no formal requirements. For a longer period, it is recommended to register residence in the Voivodship (Provincial) Office.
- Entry requirements for NON-EU citizens:
The two main documents you will need to enter Poland if you are not an EU citizen are a valid travel document (passport) and a visa (if required). More information is available here.
III. INSURANCE FOR FOREIGN STUDENTS
Important insurance information:
- Students should make sure that national insurance covers the eventual costs of healthcare in Poland.
- If the student is going to stay in Poland for a period longer than three months and has no insurance for Polish territory, they should make sure that they can get Polish or European insurance shortly.
Here are three useful websites (with links) with insurance information:
- General information concerning access to health care during a temporary stay in Poland
- Health Care in Poland
- Health insurance
IV. SHOULD A FOREIGNER IN POLAND BE REFERRED FOR PREVENTIVE CARE?
Occupational health and safety regulations do not oblige employers to give trainees preventive care. However, a foreigner who performs work in Poland should perform preventive examinations based on the regulations in force in Poland.
V. TENANCY CONTRACT (Not obligatory)
One necessity for most foreign residents from outside the European Union includes providing proof of residence. This is why they must make sure to sign an employment contract for the accommodation that they’re intending to rent. Without a tenancy contract, they won’t be able to follow the next steps.
Here is some information about it: a lease agreement in Poland.
VI. EXPAT GROUPS ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Almost every big city in Poland has at least one group of so-called “ex-pats” on Facebook. It's a good place to ask about all the questions we still don't know. Most of all groups are usually much better than any forums and articles on the international websites for the ex-pat community.