Poland is a unique country with a rich culture and history, stunning landscapes, and magnificent architecture. Before planning a trip to this country, be sure to find out if you need a visa. Read more about the visa application process in our article.

Order a checklist - step-by-step instructions for moving to Poland and obtaining a visa

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Do I need a visa to Poland?

• Your country is part of the EU/EEA countries or any Schengen country (Latvia, Germany, France, etc.).
• Your country of residence has a visa-free agreement with Schengen (Ukraine, USA, Australia, Canada, Georgia, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, Thailand and Tunisia).

Types of Polish visas

• Schengen visa – suitable for those travelers who plan to stay in Poland for less than 90 days, for example, for the purpose of tourism, visiting relatives, participating in a business event or even medical treatment. On the basis of this permit, you can visit all countries of the Schengen Agreement during the validity period of the visa.
• Transit visa in Poland - allows its holder to enter the international transit zone of a Polish airport to change flights. It is aimed at passengers traveling to a third country, but whose flight flies through Poland.
• Work visa to Poland – for those who want to work in the country. To obtain a permit, you need to find an employer who will submit a request for a work permit on your behalf to the local voivodship administration. There are different types of work permits, depending on the duration and nature of your work. You can only start working after your employer has given you a work permit.
• Student visa to Poland – citizens of non-EU countries who have been accepted to a university in Poland must obtain a Polish student visa and residence permit.
• Family visa to Poland - those who want to join their husband, wife or parents need to apply for a Polish family visa. The family visa is valid for 2 years and during this time you are allowed to work in Poland. You must provide proof of your marital status, such as a marriage certificate (for spouses) or a birth/adoption certificate (for minor children).

How to apply for a visa to Poland?

1. Contact the nearest Polish embassy or consulate and make an appointment.
2. Prepare the necessary documents according to the list (approximate list below)
3. Apply for a visa. You may also need to have a visa interview on the day of your visit.
4. Wait for the decision. It can take several weeks to process your visa application, so make sure you apply well in advance of your trip.

List of documents for obtaining a Polish visa

• Poland visa application. You must fill out the form completely and sign it at the end.
• Two passport size photos of you.
• Copy of passport. Your passport must be valid for at least three months after the date of entry
• Cover Letter. You may be required to write a letter describing the purpose of your trip, what you are going to do in Poland, etc.
• Confirmation of the availability of sufficient funds to ensure your stay in Poland (bank account statement of income for the last 6 months).
• Paid visa fee.

• A travel insurance policy that meets Schengen visa requirements (€30,000 coverage throughout the Schengen area).
• Confirmation of residence in Poland (reservation of hotels, apartments, etc.).
• Booking tickets to and from Poland.

• Confirmation of family relationships (marriage certificate, birth certificate, etc.).

• Employment contract.
• Health insurance policy.

• Confirmation of school/university enrollment.

What if my visa application is rejected?