Long-term assistance and residence permits 

A foreigner who is a victim of trafficking in human beings may obtain a permanent residence permit if they meet the following conditions:

• They are a victim of trafficking in human beings 
• They have resided in Poland for at least one year on a temporary residence permit for victims of trafficking in human beings
• They have cooperated with law enforcement authorities in the criminal proceedings
• They have a justified concern about returning to their country of origin

The permanent residence permit gives the victim a right to work in Poland. 

A Polish identity document may be issued to a foreign victim if:

• They have been staying in Poland based on a certificate they have received through the formal identification process
• They do not hold a travel document, and
• It is not possible for them to obtain another document proving their identity. 

The foreigner has to apply for the identity document. They are exempt from the requirement to present an ID document when submitting the application. 

The identity document issued is valid for one year. It confirms the identity of a foreigner but does not confirm their citizenship or authorise them to cross borders.

The victim may also receive international protection if they prove the existence of a well-founded threat of persecution or a real risk of suffering serious harm. The authority responsible for examining applications for international protection is the Head of the Office for Foreigners.

Long-term assistance and social integration aim to ensure that the victim of trafficking fully participates in the decision-making process, has access to their fundamental rights, and participates in economic and social life. 

KCIK provides long-term assistance to the victims. It is responsible for:

• Ensuring safety
• Helping the person to restore a sense of control and self-determination
• Supporting the person’s mental health
• Avoiding re-victimization
• Supporting empowerment
• Assisting with social integration

To this end, KCIK prepares a tailor-made assistance plan that includes activities and steps such as:

• Accommodation
• Social counselling
• Psychological counselling
• Psychiatric care
• Free legal advice and assistance
• Medical assistance
• Attendance in legal, social, and health matters
• Language training
• Educational activities
• Vocational training
• Employment counselling 
• Assistance in finding a job 
• Leisure activities
• Case monitoring and evaluation

Long-term assistance and social integration can be provided in the country where the victim remains, either after the reflection period or after returning to their country of origin.

The children of the victim are also eligible for the long-term assistance.