Poland can be an attractive place to study as an international student. It offers higher education options across many fields, and the Polish Accreditation Committee evaluates the quality of degree programs at public and private higher education institutions.
Another advantage of studying in Poland is that eligible students can work while they study. Earnings from part-time work can supplement their living and educational expenses. However, eligibility depends on a student’s citizenship, study mode, visa, and residence status. Non-EU/EEA students must also demonstrate sufficient financial resources when required for their studies or residence and should not rely on part-time work as their only source of support.
This article provides essential information about working while studying as an international student in Poland. Be sure to read it to the end.
Ways to Work While Studying in Poland
Poland offers university options at different tuition levels and a range of work opportunities. Depending on their legal status, students may take part-time jobs to supplement their living costs and gain experience.
Pay depends on the employer and type of contract. Poland’s statutory monthly minimum wage for employees is PLN 4,806 gross. The minimum hourly rate for covered mandate and service contracts is PLN 31.40 gross. Some contractual arrangements are exempt from the hourly minimum, so students should read the contract carefully before accepting a job.
Here are five ways to work while studying in Poland.
1. Part-Time Jobs in Cafes or Restaurants
Students may find work in cafes or restaurants. These jobs can involve serving customers, preparing drinks, bartending, washing dishes, or working in the kitchen. Schedules and employment conditions vary, so students should look for shifts that do not conflict with their classes.
To apply, you will usually need a CV. A basic understanding of Polish can improve your employment prospects, although some positions may use English or another language. Job listings can be found on websites such as Pracuj.pl. You can also ask local cafes and restaurants whether they are accepting applications.
2. Retail Jobs in Shops or Supermarkets
Students may also apply for jobs in supermarkets, clothing stores, or electronics shops. Duties may include stocking shelves, helping customers, preparing online orders, or working as a cashier. Hours and pay vary by employer and contract, so applicants should confirm the schedule and compensation before accepting a position.
To apply for retail jobs, prepare a CV and contact stores directly or search online through platforms such as Indeed or LinkedIn. Knowledge of Polish is helpful for customer-facing positions, but language requirements vary by employer.
3. Delivery and Ride-Share Services
Platform-based delivery and ride-share driving are two different types of work. Food-delivery services such as Glovo may offer flexible scheduling, but registration, equipment, vehicle, and contract requirements vary by platform and fleet partner.
Passenger transportation through a platform such as Bolt requires considerably more than a smartphone and a bicycle or scooter. Bolt’s current requirements for drivers in Poland include a valid Polish driver’s license, proof of identity or residence, a criminal-record certificate, medical and psychological certificates, and, in certain cities, a taxi driver ID. A qualifying vehicle, taxi license, insurance, and additional vehicle documents may also be required. Students should review the platform’s current requirements before applying.
4. Language Tutoring or Teaching
If you are fluent in English or another language, tutoring may be a suitable way to work while studying. Students may seek tutors for conversation practice, school subjects, or exam preparation. Rates vary considerably based on the subject, tutor’s experience, location, platform, and demand.
You can look for tutoring opportunities through websites such as Preply, where approved tutors create profiles, describe their skills, choose their availability, and set their hourly rates. Preply states that applicants do not need a specific teaching certificate or previous teaching experience, although profiles must meet its approval requirements. Relevant qualifications and experience can help tutors attract students.
5. Office Assistant Jobs or Administrative Roles
Some companies offer part-time office positions for students, including roles such as administrative assistant, receptionist, customer-support representative, or data-entry clerk. Responsibilities, working hours, and pay vary by employer and contract. These positions can provide useful administrative and professional experience.
To apply, you will typically need a CV, and some employers may also request a cover letter. Job listings can be found on professional platforms such as LinkedIn or local job boards such as Praca.pl. Employers may request Polish, English, office-software skills, or a combination of these, depending on the position.
International students can gain valuable experience by combining their studies with appropriate part-time work in Poland. Employment may provide additional income, practical skills, professional contacts, and greater familiarity with life in the country. Students can search through online listings, university career offices, employer websites, and direct applications.
Before accepting a position, check that your immigration status permits the work, review the contract carefully, and confirm the pay, schedule, responsibilities, and employment conditions. The experience gained from a suitable job may support you during your studies and contribute to your future career.
We hope this article helps you as you search for a part-time job in Poland. Learn more about the country on our Study in Poland Page. If you are interested, you can also explore Available Programs in Europe for International Students!
