Are you an international student in Poland seeking methods to supplement your income? If this describes you, our article on Jobs in Poland for International Students will be just what you need. In this article, we addressed the eligibility requirements for working in Poland as an international student, as well as the most popular career areas for international students. 20 common jobs for international students in Poland, including average salaries and the cost of living in Poland. As you can see, there is a wealth of information available to help you find work in Poland. So, without further ado, let’s get started!
Eligibility Criteria To Work In Poland As An International Student
There are certain criteria you must meet to be able to work in Poland as an international student. These criteria span from the basic, which includes obtaining a valid visa or being enrolled in a study program at any institution in Poland to the complex ones like language proficiency, legal requirements and so on. So, in this section, we will go over the possible criteria you should meet before you will be allowed to work in Poland as an international student.
1. You Must Have A Valid Visa/Work Permit:
To work part-time in Poland as an international student, you must possess a valid student visa that authorizes your studies in the country. Additionally, if your part-time employment exceeds a specified number of hours per week, you may need to acquire a work permit.
2. Enroll In A Full-Time Study Program:
For you to work part-time in Poland as an international student, you must be actively enrolled in a full-time study program at a recognized Polish university or educational institution. Your chosen field of study should ideally align with the type of work you intend to pursue. For instance, if you’re studying business administration, seeking part-time work in a related field like marketing or finance would be more relevant.
3. Part-Time Work Restrictions:
The restrictions on part-time employment are an additional consideration. The amount of hours you can work part-time while studying is usually limited. These limitations could change based on your study program and kind of visa. You might need to get approval from your school before beginning part-time employment.
4. Legal Employment:
It is essential to obtain a formal employment contract with your employer in order to guarantee your legal employment in Poland. Your working hours, salary, and other employment conditions should all be spelt out in detail in this contract. Moreover, your part-time job requires you to abide by Polish tax laws and regulations. This entails filing the relevant tax paperwork and paying the applicable taxes on your earnings.
5. Language Proficiency:
While English is widely spoken in many sectors of Poland, proficiency in Polish can significantly enhance your job prospects and integration into Polish society. Learning Polish demonstrates a genuine interest in the country and its culture, which can positively impress potential employers. Additionally, knowing Polish can facilitate communication with colleagues, clients, and locals, fostering stronger relationships and cultural understanding.
6. Specific Industry Requirements:
The specific qualifications or certifications required for part-time work in Poland may vary depending on the industry and type of job you intend to pursue. For example, if you’re seeking part-time work in the IT field, you might need specific programming languages or certifications. In the healthcare sector, relevant degrees or licenses may be necessary. Researching the industry-specific requirements will help you determine if you need any additional qualifications to secure part-time employment.
Most In-Demand Jobs For International Students In Poland
In Poland, there is a strong need for foreign students in a number of areas and businesses, including IT and software development, education, business process outsourcing, and hospitality. You will discover more about the most sought-after positions in Poland for foreign students as we dive deeper into this section and begin to synchronise your decisions.
1. IT and Software Development
Poland has emerged as a prominent technology hub, attracting a strong demand for skilled programmers proficient in various languages. Opportunities abound in software development, encompassing web development and mobile app development. As data security becomes increasingly critical, cybersecurity professionals are highly sought after in Poland’s thriving tech industry.
2. Business Process Outsourcing (BPO)
English-speaking international students are frequently sought after for customer service roles within Poland’s thriving BPO industry. Moreover, technical support positions demand exceptional communication and problem-solving skills, making them ideal for international students with a strong aptitude for technology.
3. Education and Language Teaching
To meet the increasing interest in learning English, there is a continuing need for qualified English teachers. There are opportunities to tutor students in various languages, particularly those spoken by foreigners.
4. Tourism and Hospitality
English-speaking tour guides are in high demand to cater to the growing number of international tourists visiting Poland. Students looking for part-time or seasonal work can find positions in hotels, restaurants, and other hospitality enterprises.
5. Research and Academia
Students with relevant academic qualifications can work as research assistants at universities and research institutions. Teaching assistant positions can help students gain useful experience and advance their education.
6. Freelancing
International students can use their expertise to provide freelancing services in fields such as writing, translation, graphic design, and programming. Platforms such as Upwork, Freelancer, and Fiverr allow you to connect with clients from all around the world.
20 Common Jobs for International Students in Poland
As an international student in Poland, common jobs include teaching English, working as a tour guide, providing customer service, serving food, etc. Let’s get started as this is the main focus of this part!
Common Jobs for International Students in Poland
1. English Teacher:
Teaching English in Poland offers a rewarding career path for international students. To find English teaching opportunities, explore online job boards, educational institutions, and language schools. Additionally, networking with other English teachers or language schools can help you discover hidden job openings.
Average Salary: The average salary for an English teacher in Poland is about $750 – USD 1,050 per month.
2. Tour Guide:
For international students, guiding visitors around Poland’s fascinating cities and attractions is a fulfilling experience. Consider collaborating with respectable travel agencies like Insight Vacation, Exodus Travels, Exciting Poland, Click Tours, Intrepid Travel, etc. to obtain work as a tour guide. To accommodate foreign tourists, these businesses frequently employ bilingual guides.
3. Restaurant Server:
International students can have a fulfilling time gaining useful skills and interacting with locals by working in restaurants in Poland. Consider applying for a job in one of Poland’s highest-paying eateries, such as Atelier Amaro, Restauracja Stary Młyn, or Restauracja Piękny Świat, to increase your income. These businesses frequently provide chances for growth and competitive pay. Finding hidden gem chances in the food business can also be facilitated by networking with restaurant management and personnel.
Estimated Wage: INR 1.7K (€18.5)
4. Barista:
As a barista in Poland, you’ll work in cafes and coffee shops, skillfully preparing and serving a variety of coffee beverages and other refreshments. This role offers a dynamic and engaging environment where you can interact with customers and showcase your barista skills.
5. Retail Sales Associate:
In Poland, you can work as a retail sales associate at lively retail establishments where you’ll promote a variety of products and give great customer service. This position provides a lively atmosphere in which you can engage with clients, form bonds with them, and support the store’s success.
6. Freelance Writer or Translator:
As a freelance writer or translator, you can leverage your language skills to offer valuable services to clients worldwide. Whether you specialize in content writing, technical writing, or translation, freelancing allows you to work independently and set your own schedule.
7. Customer Service Representative:
Working in vibrant contact centres or customer service departments, you’ll engage with clients and offer first-rate assistance as a customer service representative. Strong problem-solving and communication abilities are necessary for this position, in addition to a helpful and cheerful demeanour.
8. IT Support Specialist:
As a technical support specialist, you’ll provide essential assistance to customers or colleagues facing technical challenges. This role requires strong problem-solving skills and a patient demeanour to effectively troubleshoot issues and provide solutions.
9. Graphic Designer:
As a graphic designer, you’ll create visually appealing graphics, logos, and other materials. To hone your skills, consider taking graphic design courses or practising with design software.
10. Social Media Manager:
You’ll be essential to the management and expansion of an organization’s or business’s online presence as a social media manager. Creating interesting content, corresponding with followers, managing social media campaigns, and evaluating analytics to gauge effectiveness is all part of your responsibilities.
11. Event Planner:
As an event planner, you will be responsible for organising and coordinating a wide range of events, including conferences, parties, and festivals. Your responsibilities will include budget management, venue security, logistical coordination, and event execution.
12. Personal Trainer:
You can offer personalized fitness guidance to clients, helping them achieve their health and wellness goals as a personal trainer. Alternatively, you can work in a fitness centre, providing group classes or one-on-one training sessions.
13. Tutor:
As an instructor, you may share your knowledge by offering personalised tuition services in areas where you excel. This can be a gratifying way to help others achieve while earning extra money.
14. Researcher:
In universities or other research facilities, you will support innovative research projects as a research assistant. Performing literature reviews, gathering information, interpreting results, and assisting researchers with their scholarly work are some of the tasks you can be assigned.
15. Data Entry Clerk:
Entering data into computer systems will be a crucial part of your job as a data entry clerk in keeping accurate records. Assuring data correctness, entering data from many sources, and adhering to set data entry protocols are some of your responsibilities.
16. Web Developer:
As a web developer, you design and manage websites, making sure they are aesthetically pleasing, intuitive to use and perform well. Writing code, testing for compatibility, creating website layouts, and search engine optimising websites are all part of your job description.
17. Content Creator:
You’ll develop engaging and informative content for websites, blogs, or social media platforms. Your duties may include writing articles, blog posts, social media captions, and other forms of digital content. Effective content creators possess strong writing skills, knowledge of SEO, and an understanding of their target audience.
18. Volunteer:
Volunteering at local organizations or charities can be a rewarding experience and a valuable addition to your resume. It demonstrates your commitment to giving back to the community, your willingness to contribute to meaningful causes, and your ability to work collaboratively with others. Volunteering can also provide you with valuable skills and experiences that can enhance your job prospects.
19. Au Pair:
You will work as an au pair in Poland, taking care of a Polish family’s children. Taking care of the kids, assisting with housework, and picking up Polish are some of your duties.
20. Seasonal Worker:
You will be able to work in sectors such as tourism or agriculture as a seasonal worker in Poland during particular times of the year. This can be an excellent opportunity to learn about all facets of Polish culture and obtain useful professional experience.
Top 10 Famous Platforms For Part-Time Jobs in Poland
- Fasthire
- Indeed
- Glassdoor
- Pracuj.pl
- Snaphunt
- GoldenLine
- NoFluffjobs
- Jobrapido
- Absolvent
How To Get A Student Visa In Poland?
This is a guide on how to get a student visa in Poland:
1. Choose Your Program and Apply:
To study in Poland, begin by researching universities and programs that align with your interests and career aspirations. Carefully review the admission requirements for your chosen university, including past grades and English language proficiency tests. For the Polish student visa, a minimum IELTS score of 6 is generally required. Ensure you meet all the necessary criteria to successfully apply for admission.
2. Get Your Acceptance Letter:
After applying to your chosen university in Poland, you may receive a conditional offer if you meet the initial requirements. This conditional offer might stipulate that you submit additional documents or pay a deposit to secure your place. Once you fulfil all the conditions outlined in the conditional offer, you’ll receive a final acceptance letter. This acceptance letter is crucial for your subsequent visa application.
3. Arrange Your Visa Documents:
- Poland student visa application form, completed and signed
- Valid passport (should be valid for three months after your stay in Poland)
- Polish university acceptance letter
- CV (if applicable)
- High School diploma or certificate
- Proof of English language proficiency
- Proof of sufficient funds such as bank statements, financial documents, etc. [Minimum 11L (€12K)]
- International travel health insurance [Minimum cover 27L (€30K)]
- One passport-size photo
- Proof of accommodation such as hotel booking details, rent agreement, etc.
- Flight tickets
4. Apply For Your Visa:
Go to the Polish consulate or embassy that is closest to you in order to submit an application for a student visa. Make an appointment in advance and bring the necessary paperwork with you when you submit your application. The cost of the visa is normally around INR 7.2K, or €80, so be prepared to pay it. You will also be required to submit biometric information, including a picture and your fingerprints. You could also have to go to an interview where you have to talk about your studies, your financial situation, and why you decided to study in Poland.
5. Await The Visa Decision:
The processing time for a Polish student visa typically ranges from four to six weeks, although it can vary depending on individual circumstances and the workload at the consulate. It’s advisable to check with the specific consulate or embassy you’re applying to for the most accurate timeline. Many consulates offer online tracking services or allow you to inquire about the status of your application.
6. Travel to Poland:
You will get a visa sticker attached to your passport as soon as your student visa is accepted. Now is the perfect moment to set off for Poland! Plan your itinerary, gather your belongings, and make sure you have all the paperwork you need for your journey. Remember to bring your passport with the attached visa and any additional paperwork that may be needed, including evidence of housing or health insurance.
If you plan to stay in Poland for more than three months, it’s essential to register with the local authorities to obtain a residence permit. This permit allows you to reside and study legally in Poland.
Once you arrive in Poland, make sure to attend orientation sessions organized by your university. These sessions will provide valuable information about student life, academic regulations, and essential resources.
With your residence permit in hand and the excitement of a new academic adventure, you’re ready to embark on your journey as an international student in Poland!
Living Expenses in Poland for International Students
The living expenses in Poland for international students are divided into two broad categories – one is the necessary expense head and the second is the expenses on groceries. Details are as follows in the given sections:
Monthly Living Expenses in Poland
Every month, international students studying across various universities in Poland will have to spend on, the following areas:
| Expenses per month | Cost in PLN | Cost in EUR |
| Rent (student dormitory) | 400 – 600 | 90 – 140 |
| Public transportation | 50 – 60 | 11 – 13 |
| Health insurance | 40 – 60 | 9 – 13 |
| Phone, internet, and TV bills | 80 – 100 | 17 – 22 |
| Groceries | 700 – 900 | 150 – 200 |
| Entertainment | 150 – 200 | 35 – 45 |
| Average total expenses | 1,500 – 2,000 | 330 – 430 |
Average Salary Of International Students Working In Poland
As an international student working part-time in Poland, you can expect to earn between INR 60K to INR 80K (€670 to €900) or even more per month. However, your exact earnings will depend on several factors, including your job, experience, location, and qualifications. Higher-paying jobs in sectors like IT, finance, or specialized fields may offer significantly higher salaries.
How Many Hours Can International Students Work While Studying In Poland?
International students in Poland have the privilege of working part-time while pursuing their studies. To maintain a balance between academics and employment, students are generally allowed to work a maximum of 20 hours per week during the academic term. Additionally, they have the opportunity to engage in full-time work for up to three months during designated holiday periods. This flexible arrangement enables students to gain valuable work experience and supplement their income while studying in Poland.
Conclusion
As an international student in Poland, working a part-time job can significantly boost your income and enhance your financial stability while studying. However, maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial. Implement effective time management strategies and communicate your work commitments to your lecturers. To stand out in the Polish workplace, consider learning Polish and demonstrating professionalism at all times.
To increase your chances of securing a part-time job, tailor your CV to the specific requirements of the Polish job market, your chosen role, and the industry. Additionally, prepare meticulously for interviews by conducting mock interviews and practising your responses. Remember, effective communication and positive body language are key to making a favourable impression.
Finally, networking with professionals in your field can open doors to new opportunities. By putting your best foot forward and actively seeking out job prospects, you’re well on your way to achieving your career goals in Poland.
