Moving to a new country with children is a life-changing decision that requires careful planning. Kraków, Poland’s cultural capital, has become an increasingly popular destination for expat families due to its high quality of life, affordable costs, excellent education system, and rich history.
This comprehensive 4,000+ word guide covers everything you need to know about relocating to Kraków with children in 2026, including:
- International and public schools (fees, curricula, admissions)
- Childcare and daycare costs (public vs. private)
- Best family-friendly neighborhoods (safety, amenities, schools)
- Parks, recreation, and kid-friendly activities
- Pediatric healthcare (hospitals, vaccinations, insurance)
Family health coverage abroad: SafetyWing covers your whole family internationally from $45/month — including children under 10 for free.
- Safety for children (crime rates, emergency services)
- Family visa and residency options
- Cost of raising a child in Kraków (budget breakdown)
- Teen life (social scene, extracurriculars, nightlife)
- Language challenges & Polish lessons for kids
- Expat family communities & support networks
- Maternity/paternity leave policies
- Child-friendly restaurants and play spaces
By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear, data-driven roadmap for your family’s move to Kraków.
1. Education in Kraków: International vs. Public Schools
Kraków offers a mix of high-quality public and international schools, making it an attractive destination for expat families. Below, we break down the options, costs, and curricula.
A. International Schools in Kraków (2026 Fees & Curricula)
International schools are ideal for expat families who want their children to continue education in their home language or follow an internationally recognized curriculum (IB, British, American, etc.).
#### 1. International School of Kraków (ISK)
📍 Location: ul. Wierzyńskiego 17, 31-943 Kraków
🌍 Curriculum: IB (International Baccalaureate) – PYP, MYP, DP
💰 Annual Fees (2026):
- Pre-K (3-4 years): €8,500
- Primary (Grades 1-5): €12,500
- Middle School (Grades 6-10): €14,000
- IB Diploma (Grades 11-12): €16,000
🔹 Languages: English (main), Polish, French, Spanish
🔹 Facilities: Modern campus, science labs, art studios, sports fields, swimming pool
🔹 Admissions: Rolling admissions, but early application recommended (waitlists common)
🔹 Expat Community: Strong, with families from the US, UK, Germany, and Scandinavia
Pros:
✅ Fully accredited IB program (globally recognized)
✅ Highly diverse student body (50+ nationalities)
✅ Strong university placement (graduates attend top EU/US universities)
Cons:
❌ Most expensive school in Kraków
❌ Limited Polish language integration (optional classes only)
#### 2. British International School of Kraków (BISC)
📍 Location: ul. Wadowicka 6, 30-415 Kraków
🌍 Curriculum: British (National Curriculum for England, IGCSE, A-Levels)
💰 Annual Fees (2026):
- Reception (4-5 years): €9,000
- Primary (Years 1-6): €11,500
- Secondary (Years 7-11, IGCSE): €13,500
- Sixth Form (Years 12-13, A-Levels): €15,000
🔹 Languages: English (main), Polish, French, German
🔹 Facilities: STEM labs, theater, sports hall, outdoor play areas
🔹 Admissions: Selective (entrance exams for older students)
Pros:
✅ Strong British curriculum (ideal for UK/Commonwealth families)
✅ Excellent university prep (A-Levels are highly regarded)
✅ Smaller class sizes (12-18 students)
Cons:
❌ Less diverse than ISK (mostly British, American, and Polish students)
❌ No IB program (may limit options for some families)
#### 3. American School of Kraków (ASK)
📍 Location: ul. Królowej Jadwigi 188, 30-224 Kraków
🌍 Curriculum: American (Common Core, AP, High School Diploma)
💰 Annual Fees (2026):
- Pre-K (3-4 years): €7,800
- Elementary (Grades K-5): €10,500
- Middle School (Grades 6-8): €12,000
- High School (Grades 9-12): €13,500
🔹 Languages: English (main), Polish, Spanish
🔹 Facilities: Science labs, gymnasium, art studios, outdoor sports fields
🔹 Admissions: Open enrollment, but priority given to US citizens
Pros:
✅ Best for American families (follows US curriculum)
✅ AP courses available (helps with US college admissions)
✅ More affordable than ISK/BISC
Cons:
❌ Smaller school (fewer extracurricular options)
❌ Less internationally diverse (mostly American and Polish students)
#### 4. Montessori Kraków (International Montessori School)
📍 Location: ul. Królowej Jadwigi 188 (same campus as ASK)
🌍 Curriculum: Montessori (ages 3-12)
💰 Annual Fees (2026):
- Toddler (1.5-3 years): €6,500
- Primary (3-6 years): €8,000
- Elementary (6-12 years): €9,500
🔹 Languages: English (main), Polish
🔹 Facilities: Montessori materials, outdoor learning spaces, art rooms
Pros:
✅ Child-led learning (great for creative, independent kids)
✅ Bilingual environment (English + Polish)
✅ More affordable than traditional international schools
Cons:
❌ No high school (students must transfer after age 12)
❌ Less structured (may not suit all learning styles)
B. Public Schools in Kraków (Free, but Polish-Language Only)
Poland’s public education system is free, well-funded, and highly regarded in Europe. However, all instruction is in Polish, which can be a challenge for expat children.
#### 1. Structure of Polish Public Schools
- Przedszkole (Kindergarten): Ages 3-6 (optional, but highly recommended for language immersion)
- Szkoła Podstawowa (Primary School): Grades 1-8 (ages 7-15)
- Liceum (High School): Grades 9-12 (ages 16-19, specialized tracks: general, technical, vocational)
#### 2. Admissions & Requirements
- EU/EEA citizens: Can enroll directly (free of charge)
- Non-EU citizens: Must obtain a temporary residence permit (more on visas later)
- Language barrier: Children must pass a Polish language test (or attend a "preparatory class" for 1 year)
- Documents needed:
- Passport
- Residence permit
- Vaccination records
- Previous school transcripts (translated into Polish)
#### 3. Best Public Schools in Kraków (2026 Rankings)
| School Name | District | Specialization | Language Support |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gimnazjum nr 1 | Stare Miasto | STEM, bilingual classes | English, German |
| Szkoła Podstawowa nr 29 | Krowodrza | Arts & music | English |
| Liceum Ogólnokształcące nr V | Prądnik Biały | IB prep, sciences | English, French |
| Szkoła Podstawowa nr 50 | Nowa Huta | Sports, IT | English |
Pros of Public Schools:
✅ Free (no tuition fees)
✅ Strong academic reputation (Polish students perform well in PISA tests)
✅ Full immersion in Polish culture & language
Cons of Public Schools:
❌ Language barrier (can be difficult for non-Polish speakers)
❌ Less flexibility (strict curriculum, less focus on individual needs)
❌ Limited extracurriculars (compared to international schools)
C. Bilingual & Private Polish Schools (Middle Ground Option)
For families who want Polish education with some English support, bilingual or private Polish schools are a great compromise.
#### 1. Krakowskie Szkoły Artystyczne (KSA) – Bilingual School
📍 Location: ul. Królowej Jadwigi 188
🌍 Curriculum: Polish national curriculum + 50% English instruction
💰 Annual Fees (2026): €4,500 - €6,000
🔹 Languages: Polish + English (bilingual)
🔹 Specialization: Arts, music, theater
#### 2. Szkoła Podstawowa nr 102 – Bilingual Program
📍 Location: ul. Wadowicka 6
🌍 Curriculum: Polish + English immersion (CLIL method)
💰 Annual Fees (2026): €3,000 - €4,500
🔹 Languages: Polish + English (science & math in English)
Pros:
✅ More affordable than international schools
✅ Easier transition to Polish public system later
✅ Good balance of Polish & English
Cons:
❌ Still requires Polish proficiency
❌ Fewer extracurriculars than international schools
2. Childcare & Daycare Costs in Kraków (2026)
Finding affordable, high-quality childcare is a top priority for expat families. Kraków offers public, private, and international daycare options.
A. Public Daycare (Żłobek) – Ages 1-3
- Cost: €50 - €150/month (heavily subsidized by the government)
- Waiting lists: Long (6-12 months) – apply early!
- Hours: 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM (some offer extended hours)
- Language: Polish only (not ideal for non-Polish speakers)
- Best Public Żłobki in Kraków:
- Żłobek Miejski nr 1 (Stare Miasto)
- Żłobek Miejski nr 5 (Krowodrza)
- Żłobek Miejski nr 10 (Nowa Huta)
Pros:
✅ Very affordable
✅ Government-regulated (high standards)
Cons:
❌ Long waiting lists
❌ No English support
B. Private Daycare – Ages 1-6
Private daycares offer more flexibility, English support, and shorter waiting lists but at a higher cost.
| Daycare Name | Age Group | Monthly Cost (2026) | Languages | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Little Explorers | 1-6 | €400 - €600 | English, Polish | Montessori-based, organic meals |
| Kids & Co. | 1-5 | €350 - €550 | English, Polish | STEM activities, outdoor play |
| Tęczowe Przedszkole | 2-6 | €300 - €500 | Polish + English | Arts & music focus |
| Happy Kids | 1-6 | €450 - €700 | English (main) | International staff, bilingual |
Pros:
✅ Shorter waiting lists
✅ English-speaking staff
✅ More flexible hours
Cons:
❌ Expensive compared to public options
❌ Quality varies (research carefully)
C. Nanny & Au Pair Services
For families who prefer in-home childcare, hiring a nanny or au pair is an option.
| Service | Cost (2026) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Live-in Au Pair | €500 - €800/month + room & board | Typically young Europeans (18-30) |
| Live-out Nanny | €8 - €12/hour | Polish or English-speaking |
| Babysitter (part-time) | €6 - €10/hour | Available via Babysits.pl or Niania.pl |
Pros:
✅ Personalized care
✅ Flexible hours
Cons:
❌ Expensive for full-time care
❌ Legal paperwork required (contracts, taxes)
3. Best Family-Friendly Neighborhoods in Kraków
Kraków is a compact, walkable city with safe, green, and affordable neighborhoods perfect for families. Below are the top areas based on schools, parks, safety, and amenities.
A. Krowodrza (Best for International Families)
⭐ Why? Close to international schools (ISK, BISC, ASK), great parks, expat-friendly
🏡 Average Rent (2026):
- 2-bedroom apartment: €800 - €1,200/month
- 3-bedroom house: €1,200 - €1,800/month
🏫 Top Schools:
- International School of Kraków (ISK)
- British International School of Kraków (BISC)
- Szkoła Podstawowa nr 29 (public, bilingual)
🌳 Parks & Recreation:
- Park Jordana (playgrounds, walking trails)
- Krowoderski Park (sports fields, picnic areas)
- Kraków Zoo (15-min drive)
🛒 Shopping & Amenities:
- Galeria Bronowice (mall with supermarket, cinema, kids' stores)
- Local markets (fresh produce, bakeries)
🚇 Transport:
- Tram lines 4, 8, 13, 14 (direct to city center)
- Bike-friendly (dedicated lanes)
Best for: Expat families who want proximity to international schools and a mix of urban/suburban living.
B. Prądnik Biały (Affordable & Family-Oriented)
⭐ Why? Lower rent, great public schools, quiet, green spaces
🏡 Average Rent (2026):
- 2-bedroom apartment: €600 - €900/month
- 3-bedroom house: €900 - €1,400/month
🏫 Top Schools:
- Liceum Ogólnokształcące nr V (public, IB prep)
- Szkoła Podstawowa nr 50 (public, sports-focused)
🌳 Parks & Recreation:
- Park Decjusza (huge green space, playgrounds)
- Park Lotników Polskich (walking trails, ponds)
- Aquapark Kraków (indoor swimming pool, slides)
🛒 Shopping & Amenities:
- Galeria Kazimierz (mall with IMAX cinema)
- Local bakeries & butchers (traditional Polish food)
🚇 Transport:
- Tram lines 5, 17, 24 (direct to Old Town)
- Bike paths (safe for kids)
Best for: Families on a budget who want good public schools and a quieter lifestyle.
C. Stare Miasto (Old Town – Best for Culture & Walkability)
⭐ Why? Historic charm, walkable, best for older kids/teens
🏡 Average Rent (2026):
- 2-bedroom apartment: €1,200 - €2,000/month (expensive!)
- 3-bedroom house: Rare (mostly apartments)
🏫 Top Schools:
- Gimnazjum nr 1 (public, STEM-focused)
- Private bilingual schools (limited options)
🌳 Parks & Recreation:
- Planty Park (surrounds Old Town, great for biking)
- Wawel Castle & Dragon’s Den (kid-friendly attractions)
- Vistula River Boulevards (walking, scooters, ice cream)
🛒 Shopping & Amenities:
- Rynek Główny (Main Square) (cafés, street performers)
- Galeria Krakowska (mall with kids' stores)
- Local markets (Cloth Hall for souvenirs)
🚇 Transport:
- No cars in Old Town (walking/biking only)
- Trams & buses (easy access to other districts)
Best for: Families with older children who want to be in the heart of the city.
D. Nowa Huta (Affordable & Green, but Farther Out)
⭐ Why? Cheapest rent, Soviet-era architecture, very safe
🏡 Average Rent (2026):
- 2-bedroom apartment: €500 - €800/month
- 3-bedroom house: €800 - €1,200/month
🏫 Top Schools:
- Szkoła Podstawowa nr 50 (public, sports-focused)
- Liceum Ogólnokształcące nr XIV (public, arts & sciences)
🌳 Parks & Recreation:
- Park Lotników Polskich (huge, with playgrounds)
- Nowa Huta Lagoon (beach, kayaking, cycling)
- Nowa Huta Cultural Center (theater, workshops)
🛒 Shopping & Amenities:
- Plaza Nowa Huta (mall with cinema, supermarket)
- Local markets (cheaper than city center)
🚇 Transport:
- Tram lines 4, 10, 16, 21 (30-40 min to Old Town)
- Bike-friendly (flat terrain)
Best for: Budget-conscious families who don’t mind commuting and want a safe, green area.
4. Parks, Recreation & Kid-Friendly Activities in Kraków
Kraków is a fantastic city for families, with parks, museums, and activities for all ages.
A. Best Parks & Outdoor Spaces
| Park Name | District | Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Park Jordana | Krowodrza | Playgrounds, walking trails, duck pond | Toddlers, picnics |
| Planty Park | Stare Miasto | Surrounds Old Town, bike paths, benches | Walking, scooters |
| Park Decjusza | Prądnik Biały | Huge green space, playgrounds, sports fields | Sports, picnics |
| Błonia Park | Zwierzyniec | Open fields, kite flying, festivals | Outdoor games, events |
| Kraków Zoo | Zwierzyniec | 1,500+ animals, petting zoo, playground | Animal lovers |
| Wawel Hill | Stare Miasto | Castle, dragon’s den, river views | History, sightseeing |
| Vistula River Boulevards | Podgórze | Walking paths, ice cream stands, bike rentals | Family strolls |
B. Museums & Indoor Activities
| Attraction | Age Group | Cost (2026) | Why Kids Love It |
|---|---|---|---|
| Museum of Illusions | 5+ | €8/adult, €6/child | Interactive optical illusions |
| Kraków Pinball Museum | 6+ | €10 (unlimited play) | Retro arcade games |
| Copernicus Science Centre | 4+ | €12/adult, €8/child | Hands-on science experiments |
| Schindler’s Factory Museum | 10+ | €10/adult, €5/child | WWII history (emotional but educational) |
| Aquarium Kraków | 3+ | €15/adult, €10/child | Tropical fish, sharks, touch pools |
| LEGO Store & Play Zone | 3-10 | Free entry, play area €5 | LEGO building, games |
| Kraków Salt Mine (Wieliczka) | 6+ | €25/adult, €20/child | Underground tunnels, salt sculptures |
C. Seasonal & Year-Round Activities
| Activity | Season | Cost (2026) | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Christmas Markets | Dec | Free entry, €5-€15 for treats | Mulled wine, gingerbread, carols |
| Dragon Parade (Smok Parade) | June | Free | Giant puppet dragon, street performances |
| Kraków Pierogi Festival | Aug | €5-€10 per dish | Cooking workshops for kids |
| Ice Skating (Tauron Arena) | Winter | €8-€12 | Indoor & outdoor rinks |
| Kraków Zoo Night Tours | Summer | €15/adult, €10/child | Flashlight tours after dark |
| Vistula River Cruises | Spring-Fall | €10-€20 | Boat rides with city views |
| Kraków Kid’s Marathon | Sept | €5 entry | Fun run for ages 3-12 |
5. Pediatric Healthcare in Kraków
Poland has a high-quality healthcare system, and Kraków is home to excellent pediatric hospitals and clinics.
A. Public vs. Private Healthcare for Kids
| Type | Cost (2026) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Healthcare (NFZ) | Free (with residency) | - Covered by taxes <br> - High standards | - Long wait times <br> - Polish-speaking doctors |
| Private Healthcare | €30-€100 per visit | - English-speaking doctors <br> - Shorter wait times <br> - Better facilities | - Expensive without insurance |
Recommended Private Pediatric Clinics:
- Medicover (ul. Królewska 57) – English-speaking doctors, €50-€80/visit
- Lux Med (ul. Kapelanka 1) – Comprehensive care, €60-€100/visit
- Enel-Med (ul. Armii Krajowej 1) – Family-friendly, €40-€70/visit
B. Vaccinations & Child Health Requirements
Poland follows the EU vaccination schedule, and some vaccines are mandatory for school enrollment.
| Vaccine | Age | Cost (2026) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis) | 2, 4, 6, 16-18 months | Free (public) / €30-€50 (private) | Mandatory |
| MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) | 13-15 months, 6 years | Free (public) / €40 (private) | Mandatory |
| Polio | 2, 4, 6, 16-18 months | Free (public) / €25 (private) | Mandatory |
| Hepatitis B | Birth, 2, 6 months | Free (public) / €30 (private) | Mandatory |
| HPV (Girls & Boys) | 11-12 years | Free (public) / €100 (private) | Recommended |
| Flu Shot | Annual (6+ months) | €15-€30 | Recommended |
Where to Get Vaccines:
- Public clinics (Przychodnia Rejonowa) – Free with NFZ insurance
- Private clinics (Medicover, Lux Med) – Faster, English-speaking
C. Emergency & Hospital Care for Kids
| Hospital/Clinic | Specialization | Emergency Number | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| University Children’s Hospital (Prokocim) | Pediatric emergencies, surgery | 999 or 112 | Best for serious cases |
| St. Louis Children’s Hospital | General pediatrics | 112 | English-speaking staff |
| Medicover Emergency | Private pediatric ER | +48 12 618 18 18 | Fast, English support |
| Lux Med Emergency | Private pediatric ER | +48 22 332 28 88 | 24/7 care |
Emergency Numbers:
- 112 (General emergency)
- 999 (Ambulance)
- 998 (Fire department)
6. Safety for Children in Kraków
Kraków is one of the safest cities in Europe for families, with low crime rates and excellent emergency services.
A. Crime Rates & Safety Statistics (2026)
| Crime Type | Kraków Rate (per 100k) | EU Average | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Violent Crime | 0.8 | 1.2 | Very low |
| Theft/Burglary | 12.5 | 15.3 | Mostly pickpocketing in tourist areas |
| Car Theft | 2.1 | 3.8 | Rare |
| Child Abductions | 0.01 | 0.03 | Extremely rare |
Safest Neighborhoods for Families:
✅ Krowodrza (low crime, expat-friendly)
✅ Prądnik Biały (quiet, good schools)
✅ Nowa Huta (very safe, Soviet-era design deters crime)
Areas to Be Cautious In:
⚠ Stare Miasto (Old Town) at night (pickpocketing, drunk tourists)
⚠ Kazimierz (Jewish Quarter) late at night (some bars attract rowdy crowds)
B. Child Safety Tips for Kraków
- Public Transport Safety:
- Trams & buses are safe, but watch for pickpockets in crowded areas (Rynek Główny, Galeria Krakowska).
- Use child seats in taxis (required by law for kids under 150cm).
- Bike & Scooter Safety:
- Bike lanes are well-marked, but helmets are mandatory for kids under 16.
- Electric scooters (Lime, Bolt) are not recommended for kids under 12.
- Playground Safety:
- Most playgrounds are well-maintained, but check for broken equipment (especially in older parks).
- Supervise kids near the Vistula River (some areas have steep banks).
- Emergency Preparedness:
- Teach kids to memorize their address & phone number (in Polish if possible).
- Save emergency numbers in their phones (112, 999).
- Register with your embassy (for non-EU citizens).
7. Family Visa & Residency Options for Kraków
Poland offers several visa and residency options for expat families.
A. Short-Term Stay (Up to 90 Days)
| Visa Type | Requirements | Cost (2026) | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Schengen Visa (Tourist) | Passport, travel insurance, proof of funds | €80 | 15 days |
| Business Visa | Invitation letter, company registration | €80 | 10-15 days |
Note: Non-EU citizens must apply for a Schengen visa before arrival.
B. Long-Term Stay (Over 90 Days)
#### 1. Temporary Residence Permit (Karta Pobytu)
- For: Work, study, family reunification
- Validity: 1-3 years (renewable)
- Cost: €80 (application) + €20 (residence card)
- Processing Time: 1-3 months
- Requirements:
- Work contract (for employment-based permit)
- Proof of funds (€2,500/month for a family of 4)
- Health insurance (private or NFZ)
- Housing lease (minimum 12 months)
#### 2. EU Blue Card (For Highly Skilled Workers)
- For: Professionals with a university degree & job offer (min. €1,500/month salary)
- Validity: 2-4 years
- Cost: €100
- Processing Time: 1-2 months
- Benefits:
- Faster permanent residency (after 2-5 years)
- Family reunification (spouse & kids can join)
#### 3. Family Reunification Visa
- For: Spouses & children of Polish residents/citizens
- Validity: 1-3 years
- Cost: €80
- Requirements:
- Proof of relationship (marriage/birth certificate)
- Proof of sponsor’s income (min. €1,200/month for a family of 4)
- Health insurance
#### 4. Student Visa (For Teenagers)
- For: Kids enrolled in Polish or international schools
- Validity: 1 year (renewable)
- Cost: €80
- Requirements:
- School acceptance letter
- Proof of funds (€500/month)
- Health insurance
C. Permanent Residency & Citizenship
| Path | Requirements | Processing Time | Cost (2026) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Permanent Residency (5 Years) | 5 years of legal residence, stable income | 6-12 months | €100 |
| EU Long-Term Resident Status | 5 years in Poland, language test (A2 Polish) | 6-12 months | €100 |
| Citizenship (10 Years) | 10 years residency, Polish language (B1), no criminal record | 1-2 years | €200 |
Note: Children born in Poland to foreign parents can apply for citizenship after 1 year of residency.
8. Cost of Raising a Child in Kraków (2026 Budget Breakdown)
Kraków is one of the most affordable European cities for families. Below is a detailed cost breakdown for raising a child in 2026.
A. Monthly Costs for a Family of 4 (2 Kids, Ages 5 & 10)
| Expense | Cost (EUR/month) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (3-bedroom, Krowodrza) | €1,200 - €1,800 | Mid-range neighborhood |
| Utilities (Electricity, Water, Gas, Internet) | €200 - €300 | Winter heating can be expensive |
| Groceries | €400 - €600 | Local markets are cheaper than supermarkets |
| Public Transport (Family Pass) | €50 - €80 | Kids under 7 ride free |
| Childcare (Private Daycare, 1 child) | €400 - €600 | For younger kids |
| International School (1 child, ISK) | €1,000 - €1,300 | Tuition only (no uniform/books) |
| Public School (Free, but supplies) | €50 - €100 | Books, notebooks, school trips |
| Health Insurance (Private, Family Plan) | €150 - €250 | Medicover/Lux Med |
| Extracurriculars (Sports, Music, etc.) | €100 - €300 | Football, piano, art classes |
| Clothing & Shoes | €100 - €200 | Second-hand stores are cheap |
| Entertainment (Cinema, Restaurants, Activities) | €200 - €400 | Family outings |
| Miscellaneous (Toys, Gifts, etc.) | €100 - €200 | |
| TOTAL (Monthly) | €4,000 - €6,000 | Varies by lifestyle |
Family relocation essentials: Kids Travel Journal | Universal Stroller Bag | International Power Adapter Family Pack
B. One-Time Costs (First Year in Kraków)
| Expense | Cost (EUR) | Notes |
|---|
| Visa & Residency Permit