How to obtain a visa to Poland: a comprehensive guide

Updated: 10.12.2024

For non-EU citizens planning to visit Poland, it’s important to be aware of the Poland visa requirements and application procedures. Whether you are visiting for business, tourism, or employment purposes, knowing the correct visa type and understanding the application process is crucial for a smooth entry. This article provides a detailed overview of the types of visas available, their purposes, and the step-by-step procedure to obtain a Polish visa.

What are the types of visas to Poland?

Poland offers two main categories of visas for non-EU nationals:

1. Schengen Visa (Type C)
   • This is a short-term visa intended for those who plan to stay in Poland (and other Schengen countries) for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
   • It allows multiple or single entries during the validity period and permits travel across all countries within the Schengen Area.
2. National Visa (Type D)
   • This is a long-term visa for those intending to stay in Poland for more than 90 days, up to a maximum of one year.
   • While it allows for extended stays in Poland, it also permits short-term travel within other Schengen countries (up to 90 days in a 180-day period).
3. Airport Transit Visa (Type A)
   • This visa is required for certain nationals who are transiting through a Polish airport on their way to a non-Schengen destination. It allows travelers to remain in the international transit area of a Polish airport without entering the Schengen Area.
   • It does not permit entry into Poland or other Schengen countries. Therefore, it is only applicable for travelers who are not leaving the airport’s international zone.

Important Note: Not all travelers require this visa for airport transits. Always verify whether your nationality requires an airport transit visa based on your travel route. Here is the list of nationalities required to be in possession of an airport transit visa when passing through the international transit area of airports situated on the territory of the EU Member States:

List of third countries, whose nationals are always required to be in possession of an airport transit visa in any Schengen State

List of third countries whose nationals are required to be in possession of an airport transit visa when passing through the international transit area of airports situated on the territory of one/some Shengen States

Individuals belonging to the following categories are exempt from the requirement to obtain an airport transit visa:

• Holders of a valid uniform visa, national long-term visa, or residence permit issued by a Schengen Member State,
• Third-country nationals in possession of a valid residence permit issued by a Schengen Member State not fully applying the Schengen acquis, or by a Member State that does not yet apply the Visa Code, or third-country nationals holding certain types of residence permits listed in Annex V of the Schengen Visa Code, issued by Andorra, Canada, Japan, San Marino, or the United States of America, which guarantees the unrestricted right of readmission of the holder. This exemption also applies to those holding a valid residence permit issued by at least one of the countries and territories of the Kingdom of the Netherlands (Aruba, Curaçao, Sint Maarten, Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba),
• Third-country nationals holding a visa valid for a Schengen Member State that does not fully apply the Visa Code, or for a state that does not yet apply the Schengen acquis, or for Canada, Japan, or the United States of America, or a visa valid for at least one of the countries and territories of the Kingdom of the Netherlands (Aruba, Curaçao, Sint Maarten, Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba), when traveling to the issuing country, any other third country, or when returning from the issuing country after the visa has been used,
• Family members of an EU citizen,
• Holders of diplomatic passports,
• Members of aircraft crews who are nationals of a country party to the Chicago Convention on International Civil Aviation.

It is important to verify your specific situation to determine whether you are required to obtain an airport transit visa. This will depend on factors such as your nationality, the purpose of your transit, and your existing documentation.

The appropriate visa type must be selected based on the purpose and duration of the visit. Selecting the correct visa type will determine the necessary documentation that has to be attached to the visa application.

Understanding visa purposes and annotations

The purpose of a visa is indicated on the visa sticker in the “remarks” field with a specific code that defines the reason for the visa issuance. This information is crucial, as it determines the foreigner’s rights and limitations while in Poland. Below is a list of codes and their corresponding purposes for both Schengen (Type C) and National (Type D) visas:

• “01” – Tourist: The visa is issued for tourism purposes,
• “02” – Family or Friends Visit: The visa is issued for visiting family or friends,
• “03” – Sports Events: The visa is issued for participation in sports events,
• “04” – Business: The visa is issued for conducting business activities,
• “05a” – Work Based on Declaration: The visa is issued for employment based on a registered declaration of employment with the local labor office,
• “05b” – Seasonal Work: The visa is issued for seasonal work not exceeding 9 months in a calendar year,
• “06” – Other Employment: The visa is issued for employment not covered by the above categories, typically requiring a work permit,
• “07” – Cultural Activities or Conferences: The visa is issued for engaging in cultural activities or participating in related conferences,
• “08” – Diplomatic Mission: The visa is issued for official duties of foreign state representatives or international organizations,
• “09” – Studies: The visa is issued for first-cycle (bachelor’s), second-cycle (master’s), or unified master’s studies, or for enrollment in a doctoral school,
• “10” – Vocational Training: The visa is issued for vocational training,
• “11” – Other Education or Training: The visa is issued for education or training in other forms,
• “12” – Teaching: The visa is issued for teaching purposes,
• “13” – Scientific Research or Development Work: The visa is issued for conducting scientific research or development activities,
• “13a” – Internship: The visa is issued for participating in internships,
• “13b” – European Voluntary Service: The visa is issued for participation in the European Voluntary Service program,
• “14” – Medical Treatment: The visa is issued for medical treatment purposes,
• “15” – Joining EU or EFTA Citizen: The visa is issued for joining a citizen of an EU or EFTA Member State or Switzerland, or staying with them,
• “16” – Participation in Cultural/Educational Exchange or Humanitarian Programs: The visa is issued for participation in cultural or educational exchange programs, humanitarian aid programs, or working holiday programs. If the program is regulated by an international agreement with Poland, the visa sticker will also include the name of the program,
• “17” – Family Reunification with a Repatriate: The visa is issued for joining a family member who has returned to Poland as a repatriate,
• “17a” – Family Reunification with a Holder of a Permanent Residence Permit Based on the Polish Card: The visa is issued for joining a family member residing in Poland with a permanent residence permit obtained on the basis of the Polish Card,
• “17b” – Joining a British Citizen Covered by the Withdrawal Agreement: The visa is issued for joining a citizen of the United Kingdom covered by the Withdrawal Agreement, or staying with them,
• “18” – Using Rights Derived from the Polish Card: The visa is issued for exercising rights associated with holding the Polish Card,
• “19” – Repatriation: The visa is issued for repatriation purposes,
• “20” – Temporary Protection: The visa is issued for using temporary protection,
• “21” – Humanitarian Grounds, State Interest, or International Obligations: The visa is issued for reasons based on humanitarian grounds, state interest, or Poland’s international obligations,
• “22” – Family Reunification with Temporary Residence Permit Holder: The visa is issued for family reunification with a holder of a temporary residence permit,
• “22a” – Intra-corporate Transfer: The visa is issued for employment based on an intra-corporate transfer permit,
• “22b” – Stay with an EU or Polish Citizen: The visa is issued for staying with a citizen of Poland, an EU Member State, or the United Kingdom,
• “23” – Other: The visa is issued for purposes not specified above.

The purpose of the visa as stated in the “remarks” field not only indicates the intended reason for the stay but also determines the scope of permissible activities, such as employment or studies. It is essential to choose the appropriate visa type based on your planned activities in Poland to avoid any legal or administrative complications during your stay.

For example, visas marked with 01 (tourism) or 20 (temporary protection), do not permit employment in Poland. Make sure to verify the code on your visa to confirm the scope of allowed activities.

Visa application process

The process of applying for a Polish visa involves several steps. Here’s a concise guide to help you navigate through it:

1.Determine the Appropriate Visa Type

Identify the type of visa you need based on the duration and purpose of your stay. This will dictate the required documents and fees.

2. Submit the Visa Application

Applications must be submitted to the Polish Consulate in your country of permanent or temporary residence. Most Polish Consulates utilize the e-Konsulat system, where you must complete the application and schedule an appointment.

In some countries, Poland cooperates with VFS Global centers, which handle visa applications on behalf of the Consulates. You can check the specific requirements and available services for countries such as Belarus, Russia, Turkey, India, and China on their respective VFS Global websites.

3. Gather the Required Documents

Required documentation may vary depending on the type of visa and local Consulate rules. Generally, you will need:

• A completed visa application form,
• A valid passport (issued within the last 10 years, with at least 3 months’ validity beyond the intended stay and at least two blank pages),
• A recent color photograph,
• Proof of sufficient financial means (e.g., bank statements, income certificates) – detailed information on this subject can be found below,
• Proof of accommodation (e.g., hotel reservations or an invitation letter),
• Travel medical insurance covering a minimum of EUR 30,000 – detailed information on this subject can be found below,
• Documents confirming the purpose of your stay, such as a work permit or a declaration of employment.

Financial Means Required for Visa Application

Minimum Financial Requirements:

• For stays up to 4 days: PLN 300 for each day of stay,
• For stays longer than 4 days: PLN 75 for each day,
• For return or transit: An amount corresponding to the cost of a return ticket, not less than:
  • PLN 200 (for neighboring countries),
  • PLN 500 (for EU countries other than neighbors),
  • PLN 2500 (for non-EU countries).

Special Cases:

• For participants in tourism events, youth camps, sports competitions, or visitors with paid accommodation: At least PLN 20 per day, with a minimum of PLN 100.
• For students and researchers: At least PLN 1270 for the first two months of stay.

The following can serve as evidence of possession of documents: valid documents include traveler’s cheques, bank statements, or credit card limit certificates.

Documents must be issued no earlier than one month before the date of entry.

Health Insurance Requirements for Visa Application

When applying for a Polish visa, foreigners must have health insurance coverage from an approved provider. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MSZ) maintains a list of accepted insurance providers whose policies meet the necessary criteria. Only insurance policies from these approved providers will be accepted by Polish Consulates during visa applications.

Requirements for the Insurance Policy:

1. Minimum Coverage: At least EUR 30,000.
2. Valid in All Schengen Countries.
3. Covers Medical Emergencies, Hospitalization, and Repatriation.

Important Note: Before purchasing an insurance policy, applicants should verify that the provider is on the list approved by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This list can be accessed here.

Specific Requirements Based on the Purpose of the Visa:

For Work (Codes 05a, 05b, 06):

• Work Permit or Declaration of Employment: Document confirming the employment conditions and indicating the employer,
• ZUS Registration or Employer’s Statement: Proof of registration with the Social Insurance Institution (ZUS) regarding the employee – does not apply if the foreigner is not yet employed by the employer,
• Employment Contract: If already concluded – a copy of the signed employment contract – does not apply if the foreigner is not yet employed by the employer.

For Studies (Code 09):

• Acceptance Letter from Educational Institution: Confirmation of enrollment in a Polish university or educational institution,
• Proof of Tuition Payment: Receipt or document confirming payment for the first semester or year,
• Proof of Financial Resources: Evidence of financial means to cover living expenses during studies (e.g., bank statements, income certificates).

For Medical Treatment (Code 14):

• Certificate from a Medical Institution: Confirmation of the necessity of medical treatment in Poland,
• Proof of Prepayment: Document confirming payment or sufficient financial means to cover the cost of treatment.

For Family Reunification (Codes 15, 22, 22b):

• Proof of Relationship: Birth certificates, marriage certificates, or other documents confirming the family relationship,
• Proof of Residence of the Family Member in Poland: Copy of the residence permit or other document confirming legal stay of the family member.

For Scientific Research (Code 13):

• Agreement with a Research Institution: Confirmation of acceptance to conduct research or a signed research agreement,
• Proof of Funding: Evidence of financial means to support the stay in Poland, or funding confirmation from the research institution.

The documentation is meant to confirm the stated purpose of the visa and ensure that the applicant has adequate means and accommodation during their stay in Poland.

4. Submit the Application in Person

The application must be submitted in person at the designated Consul competent for the applicant’s place of residence or visa center. Be sure to check the specific submission guidelines, as some Consulates require prior online registration or an appointment through the e-Konsulat system.

Important: the consul only serves people residing in the consular district assigned to him/her. Information about the boundaries of consular districts should be checked on the consulate websites.

5. Pay the Visa Fee

Visa fees vary depending on the type of visa and local regulations. Typically, the fee for a standard visa is around EUR 80. The exact amount and acceptable methods of payment can be found on the website of the respective Consulate.

6. Processing Time

The processing time for a Polish visa is generally up to 15 days but may extend to 60 days in more complicated cases. Applicants should ensure that their application is processed before their current visa expires to avoid any legal issues. Check with your local Consulate for an estimated timeframe based on current conditions.

7. Collecting the Visa

Once your visa is ready, you will need to collect your passport with a visa it in person at the Consulate where you submitted your application.

Additional Considerations

While the general process is similar across most Polish Consulates, local variations in required documentation, processing times, and fees may apply. Always consult the website of the relevant Consulate for the most up-to-date information.

For a list of Polish Consulates worldwide and to find the one responsible for your region, visit Poland’s Missions Abroad.

Visa-Free regime for entry to Poland

The visa-free regime allows citizens of selected non-EU countries to enter Poland based on a valid biometric passport without the need for a visa. The maximum stay under this regime is 90 days within a 180-day period. However, citizens of certain countries, like the United States, do not have to adhere to the “within 180-day period” rule.

Counting the Stay Period

• The day of entry is considered the first day of stay.
• The day of exit is counted as the last day of stay.
• The 180-day period is a rolling period, meaning that every day of stay is calculated based on a backward review of the last 180 days.

A Schengen Calculator is available here to help travelers calculate their permitted stay duration.

Countries benefiting from the visa-free regime

Examples of countries whose citizens can enter Poland without a visa include:

• Canada,
• Japan,
• Ukraine,
• Moldova,
• USA,
• United Kingdom.

For a full list, refer to this link.

Conditions for Employment During Visa-Free Stay

A foreigner staying in Poland under the visa-free regime can legally work if they meet certain requirements:

• Hold a valid biometric passport.
• Have an open credit of days under the visa-free stay.
• Present a work permit or a registered declaration of employment, or show that they are exempt from the obligation to obtain a work permit.

It is also necessary for the foreigner to demonstrate proof of sufficient financial means for their stay, as well as funds for return travel if no return ticket is available.

Additionally, they must not be listed in the Schengen Information System (SIS) as a person barred from entry or considered a threat to public policy or internal security of any Schengen country.

Key takeaways for successfully obtaining a Polish visa

Obtaining a visa to Poland can be a complex and detailed process. It requires careful preparation, thorough documentation, and attention to legal requirements.

Therefore, it is highly recommended to seek assistance from experienced professionals or legal advisors who specialize in visa procedures. Their expertise can help navigate the process more efficiently and avoid potential delays or complications. If you need guidance or support with your application, feel free to contact our legal experts, who are prepared to provide comprehensive assistance tailored to your needs.

FAQ about obtaining a visa to Poland