Publication date: 30.01.2026
Obtaining a residence card for family reunification is one of the most common legal pathways for foreigners who want to live in Poland together with their relatives. A family residence card allows spouses and children to stay legally in the country if all formal requirements are met. However, the procedure requires precise documentation, proper justification, and compliance with immigration regulations.
In practice, applicants often face difficulties related to income confirmation, housing requirements, health insurance coverage, and proof of family ties. That is why a correctly prepared application for a family residence card is the foundation of a successful procedure.
Residence card for family — who can apply?
A residence card for family may be requested by close relatives of a foreigner who legally resides in Poland. The most common situations include:
- residence of a foreign spouse — legal marriage and proof of genuine relationship are required;
- children of foreigners residence card — applicable to minor children and dependents;
- other family reunification cases defined by law.
Authorities carefully verify the stability of residence and the family situation of the main applicant.
Family of a foreigner in Poland — legal basis
The family of a foreigner in Poland may legally stay in the country provided that certain conditions are fulfilled. These include:
- stable income sources,
- appropriate housing conditions,
- valid health insurance,
- compliance with immigration regulations.
Choosing the correct legal basis for residence significantly improves approval chances.
Application for family residence card — procedure step by step
Submitting an application for a family residence card requires strict procedural compliance:
- Legal analysis of the family’s situation.
- Collection of required documents.
- Proper completion of official application forms.
- Submission to the voivodeship office.
- Monitoring the case and responding to formal requests.
Incomplete documentation or procedural mistakes often cause delays.
Rights of family members after obtaining the residence card
After receiving a family residence card, family members gain the right to stay legally in Poland. Depending on the residence type, this may include:
- access to healthcare services,
- children’s access to education,
- employment rights in specific cases,
- access to social benefits.
The scope of rights depends on the individual legal status.
Common mistakes in family reunification procedures
The most frequent problems include:
- incorrectly prepared application for a family residence card,
- missing proof of family relationships,
- insufficient income documentation,
- missed submission deadlines,
- incorrect residence basis selection.
Avoiding these mistakes significantly increases procedural success.
Who we are?
Consultant Legal Marketplace is a professional platform that connects foreigners in Poland with verified legal specialists in immigration and administrative law. We support clients in procedures such as residence card for family reunification, preparation of documentation for children and spouses, and full legalization of family stay.
Our platform ensures a structured process, individual case approach, and legal security at every stage.
A family residence card is a reliable solution for foreigners who want to legally live in Poland together with relatives. The residence card for family reunification process requires accuracy, full documentation, and compliance with formal deadlines. If you plan to apply for a residence card for family reunification, arrange residence of a foreign spouse, or prepare documents for a residence card for children of foreigners, it is important to start the process early. Professional preparation helps avoid administrative delays and procedural complications.
FAQ — Frequently asked questions
Question
How long does it take to process a residence card for family reunification?
Answer
The procedure usually takes between 2 and 6 months, depending on the region and the completeness of the documents.
Question
Can I work with a family residence card?
Answer
In some cases, yes, but it depends on the type of permit and the status of the main applicant.
Question
Do I need a separate income to apply for a family residence card?
Answer
Yes, you must prove your financial ability to support your family members.
Question
Can I submit one application for all family members?
Answer
No, an application for a family residence card must be submitted separately for each family member.
Question
Can I change the basis for my stay after receiving the card?
Answer
Yes, but this requires a new procedure and resubmission of documents.
