Publication date: 15.09.2025
Who can apply for the Polish Card?
One of the most frequently asked questions is How to obtain the Polish Card and Who can obtain the Polish Card. Document 10 is intended for people who do not have Polish citizenship or permanent residence in Poland, but can prove their Polish ancestry. Most often, these are citizens of former USSR countries, including Ukraine, Belarus, and Lithuania.
People who can prove that at least one parent, grandparent, or two great-grandparents were of Polish nationality can apply for the Polish Card. Alternatively, opportunities exist for those involved in activities promoting Polish culture and language.
What documents confirm Polish ancestry?
The answer to the question of how to prove Polish origin ancestry is crucial. The most frequently required documents include:
- Birth certificates, which indicate the ancestor's Polish nationality.
- Church documents (e.g., baptismal certificates).
- Passports, school or military certificates.
- Certificates from Polish organizations.
These documents must clearly indicate the ancestors' Polish nationality. If Polish surnames remain in the family, they can also serve as supporting evidence, although they are not sufficient on their own.
The procedure for applying for the Polish Card
How to obtain the Polish Card in Poland , you must submit an application to a Polish consulate or a voivodeship office if you are already legally residing in the country. The application must be submitted in person, as an interview is required.
Documents confirming Polish origin and recent photographs must be attached to the application. The official assesses whether the evidence provided is sufficient and complies with the requirements of the Polish Card Act.
Knowledge of Polish language and culture - how to prove it?
One of the criteria is a basic knowledge of the Polish language and cultural elements. The candidate should be able to hold a simple conversation, be familiar with the national anthems, basic historical facts, and traditions.
The interview at the consulate is conducted in Polish and includes questions about family, traditions, and Polish holidays. This is an important aspect that confirms not only blood ties, but also cultural awareness.
Where to apply for the Polish Card?
People living outside of Poland submit applications at Polish consulates operating in their country. However, people already residing in Poland can apply for the document at provincial offices.
In large cities such as Warsaw, Krakow, and Gdansk, the process is more accessible thanks to a greater number of appointments and services available in foreign languages. These cities also usually offer electronic registration systems, which significantly reduces waiting times. In addition, popular voivodeship offices may have additional information centers that help foreigners prepare the necessary documents and fill out applications without errors.
Waiting time for a decision and collection of the Polish Card
The waiting time depends on where the application is submitted. On average, it lasts from several months to a year. After a positive decision, the person arranges to pick up the document at a consulate or office.
It's worth remembering that obtaining the Pole's Card requires patience, as the number of applications is large and administrative procedures require thorough verification.
Benefits of having the Pole's Card
Possessing the Polish Card brings numerous privileges:
- The right to work in Poland without a permit.
- Access to free education.
- Discounts on public transport and museum admission.
- The possibility of obtaining a multiple-entry national visa.
- Easier traveland to permanent residence and citizenship.
Thanks to this document, people of Polish descent can integrate more quickly in Poland and enjoy rights similar to those of citizens.
To obtain the Polish Card in Poland, you must prove your Polish descent through family documents or certificates. Demonstrating knowledge of the language and culture is also important. The process can take several months, so it's worth gathering documents in advance and seeking help from Polish organizations.
The most frequently asked question—how to prove Polish ancestry—comes down to presenting vital records and other official evidence. Combined with language skills, this offers a real chance of a positive decision and enjoying numerous rights in Poland.
Frequently asked questions.
Question
Who can apply for the Polish Card?
Answer
People without Polish citizenship or permanent residence status who have Polish ancestors or are active in promoting Polish culture and language can apply for the Polish Card. Documents confirming these ties are required.
Question
What documents are required to confirm Polish origin?
Answer
Proof can include birth certificates, baptismal certificates, passports, certificates with the entry "Polish nationality," as well as certificates from Polish organizations. It is important that the documents clearly confirm Polish roots.
Question
Where do I apply for the Pole's Card?
Answer
The application can be submitted at Polish consulates abroad or at voivodeship offices in Poland. The procedure requires a personal appearance, an interview in Polish, and the presentation of documents confirming your origin.
Question
How long does the process of applying for the Pole's Card take?
Answer
The entire process usually takes from several months to about a year, depending on the location and the number of cases. After the interview and document review, the candidate receives a decision on whether to grant or deny the Pole's Card.
Question
What benefits are available to holders of the Pole's Card?
Answer
The Pole's Card grants the right to work in Poland without a permit, free education, social benefits, transport discounts, and an easier path to permanent residence and citizenship. It's also an icon with ties to Polish culture.
Question
Does having the Polish Card entitle you to Polish citizenship?
Answer
The Polish Card itself does not grant citizenship, but it paves the way to obtaining a national visa, permanent residence, and then citizenship. It formally confirms Polish roots and facilitates the naturalization process.
