Get TEFL Certified for Poland: Ofqual Regulated Level 5 TEFL

It depends on your citizenship. Poland's Ministry of Labour guide for foreigners lists citizens of the EU, the EEA and Switzerland among those exempt from the work permit requirement. Teachers from other countries, including the United States, Canada and the UK, generally need a work permit or a temporary residence and work permit, plus a legal basis for residence such as a visa or residence permit issued by Poland.

The employer applies. Poland's Ministry of Labour guide says the employer submits the work permit application to the voivodeship office, and the statutory time for a straightforward case is up to 30 days. The permit names the position, working hours and lowest pay, and can cover up to 3 years. Polish consular pages add that you cannot apply for the permit on your own, so the employer sends it to you for your visa application.

Most need a national D visa. Poland's Ministry of Foreign Affairs states that a D visa allows a stay of more than 90 days, up to one year, and you register your application online through e-Konsulat before attending the consular post. The Ministry of Labour guide adds that your work permit is what lets you obtain the visa at a Polish consulate in your home country, so the employer's permit always comes first.

The 180 hour Government Regulated Level 5 TEFL Diploma, Ofqual reference 610/1572/6, suits most people heading to Poland. It is a recognized Level 5 qualification, which helps you stand out when a language school compares you with other applicants. If you want a stronger profile for university or international school roles, the 300 hour Level 5 Master TEFL Advanced Diploma, Ofqual reference 6101574X, is the step up.

Yes. Every Premier TEFL course is studied online at your own pace, with 24/7 access and tutor support, so you can finish it from home before you travel. That makes it easy to study while your employer's work permit application is processed, since the permit is what lets you apply for your visa at a Polish consulate. You receive an instant digital certificate as soon as you pass, ready to share with schools.