What is the new national visa application form and when is it valid?
The national visa type D is a key document allowing foreigners to stay in Poland for longer than 90 days, up to a maximum of 365 days per year. In practice, this is the most frequently chosen solution by people planning to study at Polish universities, work for a Polish employer, conduct research, complete an internship, or join family members living in Poland. The introduction of the new application form was intended to standardize the data collected by consulates and reduce the number of formal errors. The document has been mandatory since its implementation, and it is not possible to submit the application using the old forms—they will be rejected immediately.
The new form can only be completed online in the e-Konsulat system. The system automatically checks the completeness of the data, helping applicants avoid mistakes. After completing the form, print it out, sign it yourself, and bring it with you to the consulate.
Poland national visa allows foreigners to legally stay in Poland for a period longer than 90 days, up to a maximum of one year.
Where to download the official form and how does the e-Konsulat system work?
The official national visa application form is available only on the e-Konsulat website. Using copies downloaded from other websites is risky – they may be outdated or contain errors. The e-Konsulat system allows you to apply for step-by-step national visa application :
- select the country where you are submitting the application,
- select the appropriate consular office,
- complete the online application in several steps,
- register your appointment.
After completing the application for issuing a national visa , the system will generate a PDF file with the application. It must be printed in good quality (preferably in color) so that the barcode is legible for the official.
Step by step: how to correctly complete basic personal data
The application for a national visa to Poland form must be completed legibly and in accordance with your passport. Remember to enter the names in the order they appear on your travel document, without Polish characters or abbreviations. It's a good idea to use capital letters (e.g., JAN KOWALSKI), which makes reading easier.
In the personal data section, you should also enter your PESEL number (if issued) and your address in Poland, even if it's a temporary accommodation reservation. The consul can verify whether the address details match the attached documents.
Purpose of stay and correct visa type designation
Choosing the correct purpose of stay is crucial—it determines the list of required documents. If you select "work" but are actually coming to study, the consulate may reject your application. Therefore, it's a good idea to prepare documents confirming your purpose (e.g., employment contract, university acceptance certificate) before completing the form to avoid mistakes.
Formal requirements: photograph, passport, deadlines, and declarations
The photograph for a national visa application must be biometric, against a light background, face-on, without sunglasses. The passport should be valid for at least 3 months after your planned departure from Poland and have at least 2 blank pages. The applicant's signature must be handwritten -- a missing signature is a common reason for rejection.
Attachments: What documents should be attached depending on the visa purpose?
How to fill out a national visa application ? The list of documents varies depending on the purpose, but usually includes:
- copies of passports,
- insurance policy for at least 30000 EUR,
- Documents confirming financial resources,
- Reserved round-trip ticket or travel strategy,
- Proof of accommodation.
For a national Polish work visa, a work permit or a declaration of entrusting work to a foreigner from the labor office is required.
Most common errors when filling out and how to avoid them
Common errors include:
- Completing the form in a language other than the required one (e.g., Cyrillic).
- Omitting contact information.
- Missing the signature in the place indicated by the system.
- Outdated or incomplete documents accompanying documents.
Before visiting the consulate, it's a good idea to make an extra copy of all attachments—this will simplify the process if you need to resubmit documents.
How to submit an application at the consulate: appointment registration, fees, and submission procedure.
After completing the form, you must register your appointment—in some countries, appointments are only available a few times a month. You must arrive on time for your appointment with all your documents, registration confirmation, and the consular fee (approximately 80 EUR). In exceptional circumstances (e.g., student visas), a fee waiver is possible.
The decision is usually made within 2-6 weeks, but during peak season it may take longer. After receiving a positive decision, you can collect your passport with the visa in person or through a representative. In the event of a refusal, you have the right to appeal within 14 days—you must provide new evidence or correct any errors in the application.
F.A.Q.
Question
Where can I download the official national visa application form?
Answer
You can download the national visa application form only in the e-Konsulat system. You fill it out online, print it out, and sign it before visiting the consulate.
Question
What photo is required for a national visa application?
Answer
A 35x45 mm biometric photo is required, taken within the last 6 months, against a light background, face straight, without a head covering (unless for religious reasons).
Question
Can I fill out the form manually or only online?
Answer
The form must be completed online in the e-Konsulat system. Manual completion is not permitted – the consulate will not accept such an application. The printout must be legible and signed.
Question
What documents are most often required for a work visa?
Answer
Employment contract or declaration of entrustment, health insurance, financial resources for residence, passport, and photo. Proof of accommodation is often also required.
Question
What should I do if my visa is denied?
Answer
You can file an appeal within 14 days of receiving the decision. It's worth asking for a justification for the refusal and attaching any missing or corrected documents when re-applying.
Question
How long before your planned arrival can you submit your application?
Answer
It's best to submit your application 3-6 weeks before your planned arrival, but no earlier than 6 months before the start date of your planned stay in Poland.