Welcome over here :) i've been here for 17 years and super happy.
>a temporary residency permit based on taking a one year Polish language course
Not surprised. This is an obvious bullshit category. In Cyprus we also have a category like that ("visitor"), who aren't even required to pay taxes (they are in principle obliged to, but tax papers are not among the list of those necessary for extension of permit and immigration officials even say you shouldn't pay taxes - which is false). There same - 1-2 year waits, never have cards on hands just extension papers because they expire before they are ready, and application cancelled if you exit country - but that's a bullshit category and everyone knows it.
But seriously, if i was starting immigration from zero now, i'd start with Spain. Currently it has the best system ever + clear path to naturalisation. Only real downside is the language. If you need a lawyer there, contact me - i have a really good one.