Last updated: 05.05.2025

How to obtain a Polish Passport: A Step-by-Step Guide

Obtaining a Polish passport is a relatively straightforward process for Polish citizens, whether you are a Polish emigrant, a descendant of Polish citizens, or a foreigner who recently obtained or confirmed Polish citizenship.

This guide will walk you through the necessary steps to secure your Polish passport, providing details and tips to navigate the procedure smoothly.

Step 1: Verify Your Polish Citizenship

Before applying for a Polish passport, you must ensure that your Polish citizenship is confirmed. If you were born to Polish parents or grandparents but have not yet had your Polish citizenship confirmed, you must complete this step first.

The process varies depending on your circumstances and may involve submitting documents proving your Polish ancestry (such as a Polish birth certificate) and undergoing an official verification procedure.

More information on confirming Polish citizenship can be found here: LINK

If your Polish citizenship has already been confirmed, proceed to the next step.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

To apply for a Polish passport, you must provide several documents at the passport office. Prepare the following documents:

• Valid Polish ID (Dowód Osobisty).
• Passport Application Form – The application is submitted electronically during the passport visit. The voivodeship office employee or consul will complete the application using an electronic form.
• Recent Passport Photo – a color photo, 35 x 45 mm in size, taken within the last six months. The photo must meet the biometric standards, with a neutral facial expression and no head covering (unless for religious or medical reasons).
• Proof of Polish Citizenship (if applicable) – This could be a certificate or confirmation of Polish citizenship issued by the Polish authorities, required to prove one’s citizenship (for applicants who have gone through the appropriate procedure).
• Previous Passport (if applicable) – If you are renewing your current passport, bring your old passport.
• Payment Receipt – The passport fee should be paid in advance. Keep the receipt as proof of payment. Information about the fee can be found on the website of the competent Polish consulate in the country where you want to apply for a passport.
• If your surname was changed after a wedding abroad – a copy of the Polish marriage certificate (If you have a foreign birth or marriage certificate, you must transcribe (register) the foreign certificate in the Polish civil status register first).

Step 3: Determine the Appropriate Passport Office

If you reside outside of Poland, you can apply for a Polish passport at any Polish consulate or embassy in your country of residence. It is advisable to check the specific consulate’s requirements, as procedures and availability of services can vary by location.

For those living in Poland, passports can be issued by any Voivodeship Office (Urząd Wojewódzki) regardless of where you are registered.

To efficiently submit your application, you may be required to register your visit online on the website of the relevant passport office.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Visit the selected passport office or consulate with all the required documents.

You will need to:

1. Fill in the Passport Application Form: If not filled out in advance, you will need to complete it at the office.
2. Submit Your Photo and Fingerprints: You will be asked to provide your biometric data, including fingerprints. This data is stored in the passport’s chip and is mandatory for security reasons.
3. Pay the passport processing payment: Passport fees differ based on age, type of passport, and specific circumstances such as a reduced fee for students or seniors. Payments are usually made at the office or in advance through a bank transfer.
   • Standard passport fee: Approximately 140 PLN (around 30 EUR)
   • Discounted fee for students and pensioners: Approximately 70 PLN (around 15 EUR)
4. Receive an Application Confirmation: The office will provide a confirmation of the submitted application and an estimated time for the passport to be ready.

Step 5: Wait for passport processing

Processing times vary depending on whether you applied in Poland or abroad:

• In Poland: It typically takes up to 30 days to receive your passport.
• Abroad: Processing can take longer, usually between 6 to 8 weeks, depending on the consulate’s workload and postal services.

You can track the status of your application online through the passport application status tool by entering the application number provided at submission.

Step 6: Collect your Polish passport

Once your passport is ready, you will receive a notification (usually by email or SMS). You must collect the passport in person at the same office or consulate where you submitted the application.

Remember to bring your ID or a receipt as proof of submission. If you are unable to pick up your passport in person, some consulates offer the option of postal delivery for an additional fee.

Tips for a Successful Application

• Double-check the Document Requirements: Make sure all necessary documents are prepared before your appointment. Each consulate or passport office may have slight variations in requirements or fees, so it’s important to verify in advance.
• Check Validity of Your Documents: Ensure that all supporting documents, such as birth certificates and proof of residence, are up-to-date.
• Schedule an Appointment: Many passport offices and consulates require you to book an appointment online before visiting.
• Be Aware of Processing Times: Plan your application with sufficient time, especially if you have travel plans, as processing times can vary.

Renewing and Replacing a Polish Passport

If your Polish passport has expired or has been lost or stolen, you must go through a similar procedure for renewal or replacement. You will need to report any lost or stolen passport to the Police and provide a Police report when applying for a new passport.

Polish Passport and Citizenship Rights

Obtaining a Polish passport is a straightforward process for Polish citizens, whether a Polish emigrant, descendant, or a foreigner who recently confirmed Polish citizenship.

By following these steps and ensuring all required documents are in order, you can successfully secure a Polish passport and enjoy the benefits of travel and identification as a Polish citizen.

Holding a Polish passport grants visa-free access to many countries and the rights of European Union membership as an EU citizen. Applicants with Polish ancestry or those seeking Polish citizenship by descent may strengthen their application by submitting a brief family history and supporting documentation.

FAQ – Polish passport