So you're about to graduate, or you just graduated, and you want to stay in Poland and find your first "real" job. Congratulations! But here's the thing: finding your first job after graduation is different from finding a student job. The stakes are higher, the competition is tougher, and the process is more formal. You're not just looking for extra cash anymore – you're starting your career.

Here's the reality: The job market for graduates in Poland is competitive, but there are opportunities. The key is understanding how the job market works, knowing what employers are looking for, and being strategic about your job search. It's not just about finding any job – it's about finding the right job that will launch your career.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about finding your first job in Poland after graduation. We'll cover job search strategies, work permits and visas, CV and interview tips, networking, and how to navigate the Polish job market as a recent graduate. Because your first job after graduation sets the foundation for your career, and you want to get it right.

The Reality: What Changes After Graduation

The situation changes: When you graduate, you're no longer a student. This means:

Your visa/residence permit: Your student visa or residence permit is no longer valid for work purposes. You need to change your status.

Your priorities: You're not just looking for flexible, part-time work anymore. You're looking for a career-starting position.

The competition: You're competing with other graduates, both Polish and international, for entry-level positions.

The expectations: Employers expect more – professional CVs, relevant experience, proper interviews, and commitment.

The opportunities: But there are also more opportunities – full-time positions, career-track jobs, better salaries, and professional development.

Pro tip: Start planning early – ideally in your last year of studies. Don't wait until after graduation to start looking. The job search process takes time, and you want to be prepared.

Reality check: Finding your first job after graduation can take several months. Be patient, be persistent, and don't get discouraged. It's normal to apply to many positions before getting an offer.

Work Permits and Visas: The Legal Side

The situation: After graduation, your student visa/residence permit is no longer valid for work. You need to change your status.

EU/EEA graduates: Can continue working freely, no restrictions. Just need to register if staying longer.

Non-EU graduates: Need to change your residence permit from student to work permit. This is a separate process with different requirements.

The Process for Non-EU Graduates

Step 1: Get a job offer

  • You usually need a job offer before you can apply for a work permit
  • The job offer should be for a position that matches your qualifications
  • Some positions may require work permits, others may not (depending on current regulations)

Step 2: Employer applies for work permit (if needed)

  • Your employer usually applies for the work permit
  • Process can take several weeks
  • There are fees involved (usually paid by employer)

Step 3: Apply for work residence permit

  • Once you have work permit (if needed), you apply for new residence permit
  • Apply at your local Voivodeship Office (Urząd Wojewódzki)
  • Process can take several weeks or months
  • You can usually stay in Poland during the process

Requirements:

  • Valid job offer
  • Work permit (if required)
  • Proof of qualifications (diploma, certificates)
  • Health insurance
  • Sufficient funds
  • Clean criminal record
  • Valid passport

Pro tip: Start the process early. Don't wait until your student permit expires. The process can take time, and you don't want to be stuck without proper authorization.

Reality check: The process can be bureaucratic and slow. Be patient, follow instructions carefully, and don't hesitate to ask for help from your employer or a legal advisor.

Job Search Strategies: Where to Look

The multi-pronged approach: Use multiple strategies simultaneously. Don't rely on just one method.

Online Job Portals

Pracuj.pl:

  • Largest job portal in Poland
  • Thousands of positions
  • Can filter by experience level, city, sector
  • Apply directly online
  • Pro tip: Use filters to find entry-level positions. Search for "junior," "entry-level," or "graduate" positions.

LinkedIn:

  • Professional networking and job search
  • Good for professional positions
  • Can connect with employers
  • English-friendly
  • Pro tip: LinkedIn is excellent for professional positions and networking. Make sure your profile is complete and professional.

Indeed.pl:

  • International platform
  • Good selection
  • Easy to use
  • Pro tip: Indeed aggregates jobs from multiple sources, so you'll see positions from various portals.

GoldenLine:

  • Professional networking
  • More corporate positions
  • Pro tip: GoldenLine is more corporate-focused. Good for business and professional positions.

Company Websites

Direct applications:

  • Many companies post jobs only on their websites
  • Less competition (fewer applicants)
  • Shows initiative
  • Pro tip: Identify companies you want to work for and check their career pages regularly. Set up job alerts if available.

Recruitment Agencies

What they are: Companies that help match candidates with employers.

How they work:

  • You register with the agency
  • They match you with positions
  • They help with applications and interviews
  • Employers pay the agency

Pros:

  • They do the legwork
  • Access to positions not publicly posted
  • Help with applications and interviews
  • Can provide career advice

Cons:

  • Less control over the process
  • May push you toward certain positions
  • Quality varies

Pro tip: Recruitment agencies can be helpful, especially for entry-level positions. Register with a few reputable ones, but don't rely on them exclusively.

Networking

Why it matters: Many jobs are never posted publicly. They're filled through referrals and connections.

How to network:

  • LinkedIn – Connect with people in your field, join groups, participate in discussions
  • Professional events – Attend industry events, conferences, meetups
  • University alumni – Connect with graduates from your university
  • Internships – If you did internships, stay in touch with those contacts
  • Social events – Networking doesn't have to be formal

Pro tip: Networking is about building relationships, not just asking for jobs. Be genuine, be helpful, and opportunities will come.

Reality check: Many of the best jobs come through connections. Don't underestimate the power of networking, even as a recent graduate.

University Career Services

What they offer:

  • Job listings
  • Career counseling
  • CV and interview help
  • Employer connections
  • Career fairs

Pro tip: Don't forget about your university's career services. They often have connections with employers and can help with your job search.

Your CV: Making It Polish-Market Ready

The Polish CV format: Polish CVs have some specific conventions you should follow.

What to include:

  • Personal information – Name, contact info, date of birth (optional but common), photo (optional but common)
  • Education – Your degree, university, dates, relevant coursework
  • Experience – Work experience, internships, relevant projects
  • Skills – Technical skills, languages, soft skills
  • Languages – With proficiency levels (A1-C2)
  • Additional information – Certificates, volunteer work, interests (optional)

Photo on CV:

  • In Poland, photos on CVs are common (though not required)
  • Professional photo is recommended
  • Not having a photo is also acceptable
  • Pro tip: If you include a photo, make it professional. If you don't, that's fine too – it's becoming less common.

Length:

  • 1-2 pages is standard
  • For recent graduates, 1 page is often enough
  • Don't pad it unnecessarily

Language:

  • Polish CV for Polish companies
  • English CV for international companies
  • Some companies accept both
  • Pro tip: Have both versions ready. Polish companies often prefer Polish, international companies prefer English.

Key tips:

  • Tailor your CV – Customize it for each position
  • Highlight relevant experience – Even if it's from internships or part-time work
  • Show your value – What can you bring to the company?
  • Be honest – Don't exaggerate or lie
  • Proofread – No spelling or grammar mistakes

Pro tip: For recent graduates, emphasize your education, any internships, relevant coursework, and skills. Even part-time work experience is valuable if you can show what you learned.

Reality check: Your CV is your first impression. Make it count. If you're not confident about your CV, get help from career services or a professional.

Cover Letters: The Polish Approach

Are they needed? In Poland, cover letters are often expected, especially for professional positions.

What to include:

  • Why you're interested in the position
  • Why you're a good fit
  • What you can bring to the company
  • Your motivation and enthusiasm

Length:

  • One page is standard
  • Be concise and to the point
  • Don't repeat your CV

Language:

  • Polish for Polish companies
  • English for international companies
  • Match the language of the job posting

Pro tip: A good cover letter can set you apart. Take the time to write a personalized one for each application.

Reality check: Some employers don't read cover letters, but many do. It's better to have one than not, especially for competitive positions.

Job Interviews: What to Expect

The process: Polish job interviews are usually similar to interviews in other countries, but there are some cultural differences.

Types of interviews:

  • Phone/Skype screening – Initial screening interview
  • In-person interview – Usually with HR and/or hiring manager
  • Technical interview – For technical positions
  • Assessment center – For some corporate positions
  • Multiple rounds – Common for professional positions

What to expect:

  • Questions about your experience and qualifications
  • Questions about why you want the job
  • Questions about your career goals
  • Behavioral questions (tell me about a time when...)
  • Technical questions (for technical positions)

Cultural considerations:

  • Polish interviews can be formal
  • Dress professionally
  • Be punctual (arrive 10-15 minutes early)
  • Make eye contact
  • Be prepared and confident

Common questions:

  • Tell me about yourself
  • Why do you want this job?
  • Why do you want to work in Poland?
  • What are your strengths and weaknesses?
  • Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
  • Why should we hire you?

Pro tip: Prepare answers to common questions, but don't sound rehearsed. Be genuine and show enthusiasm.

Reality check: Interviews can be nerve-wracking, especially your first ones. Practice, prepare, and remember that it's a two-way conversation – you're also evaluating if the company is right for you.

Salary Expectations: What Can You Earn?

The reality: Entry-level salaries in Poland vary widely depending on:

  • Sector – IT pays more than retail
  • City – Warsaw pays more than smaller cities
  • Company – International companies often pay more
  • Your qualifications – Relevant skills and experience matter

Typical entry-level salaries (gross, per month):

Sector Salary Range (PLN) Salary Range (EUR)
IT 4,000-8,000 PLN €880-1,760
Business/Finance 3,500-6,000 PLN €770-1,320
Marketing 3,000-5,000 PLN €660-1,100
Engineering 4,000-7,000 PLN €880-1,540
Retail/Hospitality 2,500-4,000 PLN €550-880
Teaching 3,000-5,000 PLN €660-1,100

Note: These are rough estimates. Actual salaries vary based on many factors.

Net vs. gross:

  • Gross (brutto) – Before taxes
  • Net (netto) – After taxes (what you actually receive)
  • Net is usually about 70-75% of gross (depending on income)

Pro tip: When discussing salary, clarify if it's gross or net. Most job postings show gross salary, but you'll receive net.

Reality check: Entry-level salaries in Poland are lower than in Western Europe, but so is the cost of living. Your purchasing power may be similar or better.

Sectors with Good Opportunities for Graduates

IT and Technology:

  • High demand for IT professionals
  • Good salaries
  • English often sufficient
  • Many international companies
  • Pro tip: IT is one of the best sectors for international graduates. If you have IT skills, you're in high demand.

Business and Finance:

  • Good opportunities in larger cities
  • International companies often need English speakers
  • Career growth potential
  • Pro tip: Business and finance positions often value international experience and language skills.

Marketing and Communications:

  • Growing sector
  • Creative opportunities
  • English often an asset
  • Pro tip: Marketing positions often value international perspectives and language skills.

Engineering:

  • Good demand
  • Technical skills valued
  • International companies
  • Pro tip: Engineering positions often have good career prospects and salaries.

Teaching and Education:

  • English teaching is in demand
  • Language schools hire native speakers
  • Flexible options
  • Pro tip: If you're a native English speaker, teaching can be a good option while you look for other opportunities.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Language barrier:

  • Challenge: Not speaking Polish can limit opportunities
  • Solution: Focus on international companies, English-speaking positions, or improve your Polish
  • Pro tip: Many international companies in Poland operate in English. Focus on those.

Lack of experience:

  • Challenge: As a recent graduate, you may lack work experience
  • Solution: Emphasize internships, part-time work, projects, and relevant coursework
  • Pro tip: Frame your student work experience as professional experience. Show what you learned and accomplished.

Competition:

  • Challenge: Competing with Polish graduates and other international graduates
  • Solution: Emphasize your unique value – international perspective, language skills, different background
  • Pro tip: Your international background is an asset, not a liability. Many companies value diversity.

Work permit issues:

  • Challenge: Navigating work permit requirements
  • Solution: Research requirements early, work with your employer, get legal help if needed
  • Pro tip: Many employers are familiar with the process and can help. Don't be afraid to ask.

Reality check: Finding your first job is challenging, but it's not impossible. Be persistent, be patient, and don't give up.

Timeline: When to Start Looking

During your last year:

  • 6-12 months before graduation: Start researching, networking, identifying target companies
  • 3-6 months before graduation: Start applying, attend career fairs, build connections
  • Last semester: Intensify job search, apply actively, interview

After graduation:

  • First month: Full-time job search, multiple applications daily
  • Months 2-3: Continue applying, follow up, consider temporary work if needed
  • Months 3-6: Be persistent, consider expanding your search, get feedback

Pro tip: Start early. Don't wait until after graduation. Many companies hire graduates before they finish studies.

Reality check: The job search can take several months. Be prepared for this, and don't get discouraged if it takes time.

The Application Process: Step by Step

Step 1: Research

  • Identify companies and positions
  • Research companies
  • Understand requirements
  • Prepare your materials

Step 2: Prepare

  • Update your CV
  • Write cover letters
  • Prepare for interviews
  • Gather documents

Step 3: Apply

  • Submit applications
  • Follow application instructions
  • Keep track of applications
  • Follow up

Step 4: Interview

  • Prepare for interviews
  • Attend interviews
  • Follow up after interviews
  • Negotiate if offered

Step 5: Accept and Start

  • Review offer carefully
  • Negotiate if needed
  • Accept offer
  • Prepare for start date

Pro tip: Keep a spreadsheet of all your applications – company, position, date applied, status, follow-up dates. It helps you stay organized.

Negotiating Your First Job Offer

Should you negotiate? For your first job, negotiation may be limited, but it's worth trying.

What to negotiate:

  • Salary – If the offer seems low, you can try to negotiate
  • Start date – You may need time to get work permit
  • Benefits – Vacation days, health insurance, etc.
  • Remote work – If applicable

How to negotiate:

  • Be professional and respectful
  • Have reasons for your requests
  • Be flexible
  • Know your worth but be realistic

Pro tip: For your first job, experience and opportunity may be more valuable than salary. Consider the whole package, not just the money.

Reality check: As a recent graduate, your negotiating power may be limited. But it doesn't hurt to try, especially if you have other offers or unique qualifications.

The Bottom Line

Finding your first job in Poland after graduation is challenging but definitely possible. It requires preparation, persistence, and the right approach.

What this means for you:

Start early, use multiple strategies, prepare your materials well, and be persistent. The job search takes time, but with the right approach, you'll find opportunities. Your first job sets the foundation for your career, so take it seriously, but also be open to opportunities that might not be your "dream job" but can lead to better things.

But more importantly: Your first job after graduation is a learning experience. It's okay if it's not perfect. What matters is that it gives you experience, helps you build your career, and moves you forward. Don't be too picky, but also don't accept something that's clearly wrong for you.

So start preparing, start applying, and start building your career in Poland. Because with the right approach and persistence, you'll find that first job that launches your career.

Powodzenia! (Good luck!) Go out and find that first job. You've got the skills, you've got the education, and you've got this.