Many foreign workers travel to Poland each year to take up jobs in agriculture, tourism, or hospitality under the seasonal work permit system.
One of the most common questions applicants ask is whether this permit can be extended once it expires.

Here’s a full explanation of what the law allows and what options exist if you want to stay longer.

What Is a Seasonal Work Permit in Poland?

A Polish seasonal work permit (Type S) allows non-EU citizens to work temporarily in specific sectors such as farming, forestry, fishing, catering, or hotel services.
It is issued by the local district labour office (Powiatowy Urząd Pracy) upon the employer’s request and lets you work legally for up to 9 months within a calendar year.

Your employer must first obtain the permit, and then you apply for a visa or residence card based on that authorization.

Can a Seasonal Work Permit Be Extended?

In most cases, you cannot extend a Poland seasonal work permit beyond the 9-month limit in the same calendar year.
The law clearly states that seasonal work can be performed “for a period not exceeding 9 months within a calendar year.”

If you want to continue working after your permit expires, you must apply for:

• A new seasonal work permit for the next calendar year, or

• A different type of work permit (for example, a standard work or residence-and-work permit) if the job will no longer be seasonal.

When an Extension May Be Possible

There are limited cases where a short continuation may be possible if:

• The seasonal job continues within the same year, and

• The employer files a new application before the previous permit expires.

However, even in these cases, the total work period cannot exceed the 9-month maximum. Once you reach that limit, extension under the same permit type is not legally possible.

How to Continue Working After the Seasonal Permit Ends

If you wish to stay in Poland after your seasonal job ends, consider these options:

1. Apply for a new permit for the next season — your employer can reapply the following year.

2. Change to a regular work permit (Type A) — if you have a long-term job offer from a Polish company.

3. Apply for a temporary residence and work permit if you plan to live and work in Poland for more than one year.

Your employer must submit the correct application type before your visa or permit expires.

Practical Tips for Workers and Employers

• Plan your employment timeline carefully so it fits within the 9-month limit.

• Apply early for the next season if you plan to return to Poland.

• Do not overstay after your permit expires — doing so can affect future visa approvals.

• Coordinate with your employer to switch to another permit type if long-term work is planned.

• Keep copies of all permits and official letters for reference when reapplying.

Why the Limit Exists

The 9-month cap helps Polish authorities separate seasonal jobs from long-term employment.
It also ensures fair working conditions and prevents misuse of temporary visa categories.
If your work becomes regular and ongoing, Poland provides other legal paths for longer residence and employment.

Summary

A Poland seasonal work permit cannot be extended beyond 9 months in a calendar year.
You can, however, apply for a new permit for the next year or switch to another type of work permit if your employment continues.

Always apply early, keep your documents complete, and follow official procedures to stay compliant with Polish immigration rules.