Relocate.PL • Blog
Residence card — when to apply
You must file the temporary residence application no later than the last day of your legal stay; the residence card is issued after a positive decision.
Key points
- Fingerprints are taken when you apply; for the residence card this applies to children from age 6.
- A complete application filed during legal stay keeps your stay legal from filing until the decision becomes final.
- A passport stamp can be obtained after fingerprinting and fixing formal gaps; it does not allow travel in the Schengen area.
- Temporary residence is not "extended" — you file a new application for the next permit.
- Permanent residence: the application can be filed up to the last day of legal stay.
FAQ
How early should I renew the residence card?
According to UdSC, apply for a card exchange at least one month before it expires.
Can temporary residence be extended?
No. According to gov.pl you file a new application for the next permit.
Official sources
This is general information; rules change — always check current requirements on the official websites.