A new path to Polish citizenship- the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Administration changes the rules

The Ministry of Internal Affairs announces changes to the procedure for recognition as a Polish citizen based on longer residence, loyalty, citizenship test and tax residence.

What are the four pillars of Polish Citizenship Policy?

On October 27, 2025, the Polish Ministry of Interior and Administration announced changes to the Polish citizenship regulations. This is part of broader changes outlined in the “Poland’s Migration Strategy 2025–2030”, published a year earlier. These changes are to be based on four pillars:

• length of stay in Poland,
• loyalty to the state,
• a citizenship test
• permanent tax residence.

The Ministry emphasizes that the goal is to verify the integration of foreigners into Polish society, and the overall goal is to “ensure a balance between Poland’s openness and concern for the security and cohesion of our society”. The announcement also emphasizes the values of Poland’s security and duty to the state and nation.

Who will be affected by the changes?

The amendents will apply to individuals applying for recognition as Polish citizens. For now, the procedures for citizenship reinstatement and confirming citizenship remain unchanged.

At the same time, the Ministry of Interior and Administration suggests considering integration criteria, length of residence in Poland, and declarations of loyalty also in the presidential procedure (granting citizenship). However, this is a constitutional prerogative of the President of the Republic of Poland-a formal restriction is unlikely, but the practice of reviewing applications may eventually begin to reflect the new policy assumptions.

Residence Thresholds and Tax Residency

The Ministry of Interior and Administration announces the introduction of a minimum length of stay in Poland and a requirement for permanent tax residency as a condition for citizenship.

Proposed periods of stay in Poland:

• For most foreigners – 8 years in total (3 years of temporary residence + 5 years of long-term residence).
• Repatriates – minimum 1 year (currently, citizenship upon repatriation is granted upon crossing the border).
• Holders of the Polish Card – minimum 3 years (currently 1 year).

Long-term residence will become crucial.

What will the citizenship test look like?

The test will combine closed-ended and open-ended questions, as well as practical elements (language).

The following examples were presented in the Ministry of Interior and Administration materials:

History/Recent Events:

Which two candidates made it to the second round of the last presidential election in Poland?

1. a) Karol Nawrocki and Leszek Miller,
2. b) Donald Tusk and Rafał Trzaskowski,
3. c) Rafał Trzaskowski and Karol Nawrocki.

Polish History:

The Battle of Grunwald in 1410 strengthened:

1. a) the Polish-Lithuanian Union;
2. b) the Polish-German Union;
3. c) the Polish-Ukrainian Union.

Polish Language (Practice):

• Convert the word “pszczoła” (bee).
• Correctly write down the 5 largest cities in Poland.
• Write down one sentence you hear (dictation).

Social Norms/Ethics (Open Question):

• Is it acceptable to give small amounts of money to police officers to avoid a fine, for example, for speeding?

What does this mean for foreigners?

For citizenship candidates, this means a greater emphasis on documented, extended residence, a stable tax situation, and effective integration (language, knowledge of the country, social norms).

Poland is moving toward a more stringent migration policy, approaching the practices of many Western countries: citizenship as the culmination of integration, not just the completion of formalities. The test is intended to be a tool for assessing readiness to fully participate in social and civic life.

Are you planning to apply for Polish citizenship?

Prepare for the new rules with the help of experienced lawyers. Take advantage of our knowledge to safely navigate the changing procedures and increase your chances of success.

Contact our law firm– we will help you understand the new requirements and guide you through the entire process step by step.