How to Verify the Validity of a Residence Card Issued in Poland for Foreign Nationals

A residence card is a crucial document for foreign nationals from outside the European Union who have obtained legal residency rights in Poland. It allows not only living and working in Poland but also free travel within the Schengen Zone without additional visas. However, in recent years, cases of forged residence cards have become more frequent. These fake documents are often used by individuals seeking employment outside Poland, for example, in France, Germany, or the Netherlands.

Why is it Important to Verify the Validity of a Residence Card?

Forged residence cards pose a serious issue, especially for employers hiring foreign workers. An employee using fake documents exposes the employer to legal liability. In countries like France, Germany, or Belgium, labor inspections regularly check the legality of foreign workers’ employment. If a workplace accident occurs and the employee’s documents are found to be fake, the employer may face severe consequences, including high financial penalties, civil liability, and even criminal proceedings.

Which Nationalities Most Often Apply for Residence Cards in Poland?

Poland has become a popular migration destination for nationals from outside the EU, especially from:

• Ukraine,
• Belarus,
• India,
• Georgia,
• Vietnam,
• Pakistan,
• Bangladesh,
• Uzbekistan,
• Turkey,
• Kazakhstan,
• The Philippines,
• Mongolia,
• Egypt,
• Nepal.

For many, Poland is not a final destination but a transit country. Foreign nationals often see Poland as a starting point for further migration to other EU countries, such as:

• France,
• Germany,
• The Netherlands,
• Belgium,
• Italy,
• Spain,
• Sweden,
• Norway,
• Ireland,
• Denmark.

This trend leads to an increase in attempts to legalize employment in high-wage and socially supportive countries using forged Polish residence cards.

Benefits of Holding a Polish Residence Card

Possessing a residence card in Poland provides many benefits, including:

1. The right to work in Poland without additional permits.
2. Free access to the Schengen Zone – the ability to travel without a visa.
3. Access to public services, including healthcare and education.
4. The ability to start a business.

These advantages make the residence card a highly desirable document, unfortunately contributing to its forgery.

How to Verify the Authenticity of a Residence Card?

Before hiring a foreign national, it’s crucial to verify their documents. A residence card should be checked for:

• Authenticity of data (e.g., holograms, serial number, photograph).
• Expiration date – some fake cards may display incorrect or overly extended validity periods.
• Official registers – the legality of the card can be confirmed through Polish authorities.

Professional assistance is available from SOS Legal Law Firm, specializing in verifying the authenticity of foreign nationals’ documents. Their quick verification service costs 100 euros plus VAT, a small price compared to potential losses from hiring someone with forged documents.

Conclusion

Hiring a foreign worker with illegal documents poses significant risks for employers, especially in countries like Germany, France, or the Netherlands. Poland, as a transit country, has become a common starting point for migrants from outside the EU, which has led to an increase in forged residence cards. Before signing a contract, it is essential to thoroughly verify the worker’s documents. Using the services of a law firm specializing in such matters, like SOS Legal, is a quick and effective way to protect against legal consequences.

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