Poland has become one of Europe’s leading transport and logistics hubs, with thousands of trucks moving goods daily across borders. As trade between Western and Eastern Europe continues to grow, the demand for professional truck drivers is at an all-time high. However, Poland faces a driver shortage, and this gap is increasingly being filled by foreign workers.

If you are considering working as a truck driver in Poland, this blog provides a complete guide to the job market, work permits, visa procedures, and license requirements for foreigners.

Why Poland is Hiring Foreign Truck Drivers

Poland’s geographical location makes it a gateway for European trade. Goods traveling between Germany, Scandinavia, the Baltics, and Eastern Europe often pass through Poland. This makes the country’s trucking industry essential for both local and international logistics.

Polish companies struggle to find enough domestic drivers. Many younger Poles are choosing different careers, while experienced drivers often move to Western Europe for higher pay. As a result, logistics firms in Poland are increasingly recruiting from abroad.

Foreign drivers from countries such as India, Nepal, the Philippines, Ukraine, Belarus, Moldova, Georgia, and Central Asia are in high demand. For many, Poland is not just a workplace but also a stepping stone toward permanent residence in the European Union.

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Work Permits for Foreign Truck Drivers

If you are from outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland, you must have a valid work permit to be employed legally in Poland.

Types of Work Permits for Drivers

1. Work Permit Type A – Issued when you have an employment contract with a Polish transport company.
2. Single Permit – Combines both work and residence rights in one document, reducing paperwork.
3. Seasonal Work Permit – Sometimes used for short-term logistics jobs, though less common for trucking.

Who Applies for the Permit?

Your employer applies on your behalf to the Voivodeship Office (regional authority). Once approved, the work permit is valid for up to 3 years, and it is usually tied to the specific employer and position.

Without this document, you cannot apply for a visa or begin legal employment.

Visa Process for Truck Drivers

After receiving a work permit, you must apply for a Polish national visa (Type D) at the Polish embassy or consulate in your home country.

This visa allows you to:

• Enter Poland legally.
• Work for the company named in your permit.
• Stay for more than 90 days.

Once you arrive in Poland, most drivers also apply for a Temporary Residence Card (TRC), which is valid for 1–3 years and renewable. The TRC gives you the right to live and work in Poland and also allows multiple entries into the Schengen Zone without needing a new visa.

Driving License and Qualification Requirements

Having the correct driving license and professional qualifications is just as important as having the right visa and permit.

License Categories for Truck Drivers

• Category C – For trucks weighing more than 3.5 tons.
• Category C+E – For trucks with trailers, which are the most common in long-haul and international transport.

Foreign License Conversion

If you already hold a truck driving license from outside the EU, you may need to:

1. Convert it to a Polish or EU-recognized license.
2. Pass medical and psychological tests, including eyesight and reflex checks.
3. Complete the Code 95 Certificate, which is mandatory for all professional drivers in the EU.

What is Code 95?

Code 95 is a European Union driver qualification card. It confirms that the driver has undergone professional training and is legally allowed to operate heavy goods vehicles commercially. Without Code 95, you cannot be employed as a professional truck driver in Poland or elsewhere in the EU.

Salary and Work Conditions in Poland

The salary of truck drivers in Poland varies depending on the company, route, and level of experience.

• Average net monthly salary: between 8,000 and 13,000 PLN (€1,800 – €2,800).
• Domestic routes usually pay slightly less than international or long-haul routes.
• Some companies provide accommodation, food allowance, or travel reimbursements.
• Drivers are entitled to health insurance, pension contributions, and paid leave through the Polish social security system (ZUS).

Although the work involves long hours on the road, the financial benefits and opportunity to travel across Europe make it attractive for many foreigners.

Step-by-Step Guide to Starting Work as a Truck Driver in Poland

1. Secure a Job Offer – Apply directly to logistics companies or through specialized recruitment agencies.
2. Employer Applies for Work Permit – The company must submit the application to the Voivodeship Office.
3. Apply for a Visa – With the approved work permit, apply for a national visa at the Polish consulate in your country.
4. Travel to Poland – Enter legally and sign your employment contract.
5. Convert Your License – If required, convert your driving license to an EU-recognized one.
6. Complete Code 95 Training – Mandatory to drive trucks commercially in the EU.
7. Begin Employment – Start your career as a professional driver in Poland.

Advantages of Working as a Truck Driver in Poland

• High demand: constant shortage of drivers means better job security.
• Gateway to the EU: once licensed in Poland, you can drive across all EU countries.
• Stable earnings: salaries are competitive compared to non-EU countries.
• Legal residence pathway: opportunity to apply for residence permits and eventually permanent residency.

Challenges to Expect

• Long hours and extended periods away from home.
• Adapting to EU traffic rules and Polish road regulations.
• Permit and visa processing can take several months.
• Costs of training and license conversion can be high initially.

FQAS : 

1. Do I need a work permit to work as a truck driver in Poland?

Yes. All non-EU truck drivers must have a valid Polish work permit to be legally employed.

2. How do I get a truck driver job offer in Poland?

You must secure a job offer or employment contract from a Polish transport company. This is the first step before applying for permits or visas.

3. Who applies for the truck driver work permit in Poland?

The Polish employer applies for the Type A Work Permit on behalf of the driver at the Voivodeship Office.

4. How long does it take to get a truck driver's work permit in Poland?

It usually takes between 1 and 3 months, depending on the region.

5. What documents are needed for a truck driver's work permit in Poland?

Passport, job contract, C/CE license, Code 95 certificate (if available), medical/psychotechnical test certificates, and employer company documents.

6. Do I need a visa to work as a truck driver in Poland?

Yes. After the work permit is issued, you must apply for a National Type D Work Visa at the Polish consulate.

7. What documents are required for a Polish work visa for truck drivers?

Work permit decision, job contract, passport (with at least 18 months' validity), visa application, insurance, and sometimes proof of accommodation.

8. How long does it take to get a Polish work visa for truck drivers?

It usually takes 2–8 weeks after submission to the consulate.

9. What kind of driving license is required for truck drivers in Poland?

You need a Category C license for trucks, or a Category CE license if you drive trailers and articulated vehicles.

10. Can I use my foreign truck driving license in Poland?

Non-EU licenses must be exchanged for a Polish equivalent. Some countries have agreements for direct recognition.

11. What is Code 95 in Poland for truck drivers?

Code 95 is a Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) required for all professional drivers in the EU.

12. Is Code 95 training mandatory for truck drivers in Poland?

Yes. Without Code 95, you cannot legally work as a professional driver in Poland or the EU.

13. How can I obtain Code 95 in Poland?

You must complete 35 hours of training at an approved centre and pass the required tests.

14. How long is Code 95 valid in Poland?

Code 95 is valid for 5 years and must be renewed through refresher training.

15. Do truck drivers in Poland need medical checks?

Yes. All drivers must undergo a medical examination and a psychotechnical test to demonstrate their fitness for driving.

16. What is the Temporary Residence Card (TRC) for truck drivers in Poland?

TRC (Karta Pobytu) allows you to stay in Poland for 1–3 years legally and is renewable.

17. Can I apply for a TRC as a truck driver in Poland?

Yes. Once you have a job, work permit, and visa, you can apply for a TRC to extend your stay.

18. What is the salary of truck drivers in Poland?

Truck drivers earn between €1,200 €2,000 net per month, with higher pay for international routes.

19. Can I bring my family if I work as a truck driver in Poland?

Yes. With a valid TRC and stable employment, you can apply for family reunification.

20. Can a truck driver's job in Poland lead to permanent residency?

Yes. After a continuous legal stay and work with a TRC, you can apply for a long-term EU residence permit and later permanent residency.

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Conclusion

Truck driving in Poland is one of the most promising opportunities for foreigners looking to build a career in Europe. With strong demand, clear visa rules, and competitive salaries, Poland offers both job stability and a potential route to EU residency.

If you are serious about working as a truck driver in Poland, start by securing a genuine job offer, ensure that your documents and licenses are in order, and prepare for Code 95 certification. With the right preparation, you can build a stable and rewarding trucking career in Poland and beyond