Publication date: 23.09.2025
What is a student visa to Poland and who can apply for it?
A Polish student visa is a document entitling a foreigner to enter and stay in Poland for the purpose of studying at a university, a language course, or an exchange program.
It can be applied for by individuals from outside the Schengen Area who have been accepted for studies or a preparatory course.
Basic requirements for candidates applying for a student visa
To obtain a student visa in Poland, the candidate must: be accepted to a university or course (certificate of acceptance required), have a valid passport and sufficient funds to support themselves in Poland, have health insurance valid for the duration of their stay, and demonstrate the purpose of their stay: full-time education.
Student visa application registration process--step by step.
Student visa registration Poland is done online via the e-Konsulat system.
Steps:.
- Completing the online application form
- Scheduling an appointment at the consulate.
- Preparing original and photocopied documents.
- Attending the visa interview and submitting fingerprints.
- Waiting for the decision and collecting the passport with visa.
List of required documents when submitting an application
Documents for student visa Poland include:
- Completed visa application form
- Valid passport (at least 3 months after the planned departure),
- Biometric photos
- Confirmation University admissions,.
- Proof of financial resources (bank statement, scholarship certificate),.
- Insurance policy,.
- Proof of consular fee payment,.
Application processing time and student visa validity period.
The application processing time is usually 15 business days, but may be longer during peak season. A student visa in Poland is usually valid for one academic year, with the option of extension or applying for a residence card. After the visa expires, you must submit a new application or apply for a residence card to continue your legal stay. Please note that the extension process can take several weeks, so it is recommended to submit your application well in advance. Failure to meet the deadlines may result in you being forced to leave Poland.
The most common mistakes when applying for a visa and how to avoid them.
The most common problems with Polish student visas:
- Incomplete documentation.
- Incorrect completion of the online form.
- Lack of proof of financing for the stay.
- Being late for your appointment at the consulate.
To avoid these, it's worth preparing your documents in advance, making copies, and checking the requirements on the consulate's website.
Consular fees and additional costs associated with a student visa
The consular fee for a student visa to Poland is approximately €80, but some groups (e.g., government scholarship holders) are exempt from it. Additionally, you must consider the costs of sworn translations, health insurance, andand any medical examinations.
What to do after receiving a student visa poland and arriving in Poland
After arriving in Poland, you should:
Register at your place of stay (if your stay is >30 days),- Start your studies at a university,
- Consider applying for a residence card at the Voivodeship Office if you plan to stay longer than the visa's validity period.
Upon arrival, you can apply for a temporary residence card for the period of your studies, which provides greater flexibility (e.g., multiple border crossings). An alternative may be a humanitarian visa if there is a life-threatening risk in your country of origin, or a work-based residence permit if you plan to combine studies with employment.
F.A.Q.
Question
Who must apply for a student visa to Poland?
Answer
A student visa is required for citizens of non-Schengen countries who plan to study, attend a language course, or participate in an exchange program in Poland and wish to stay longer than 90 days legally.
Question
How long does it take to process a student visa application?
Answer
The standard processing time is approximately 15 business days from the submission of all required documents, but during the recruitment period it may extend up to 30 days. Therefore, it is worth registering your application well in advance.
Question
What documents are most often required for a student visa?
Answer
The most commonly required documents are: passport, biometric photo, application form, confirmation of acceptance to studies, proof of financial means, health insurance, and proof of consular fee.
Question
Can a student visa be extended?
Answer
Yes, the visa can be extended by applying for a temporary residence card at the Voivodeship Office before its expiry. This allows you to continue your studies and legally reside in Poland without having to leave.
Question
Can student visa holders work in Poland?
Answer
Yes, a student visa allows you to work in Poland without additional permission during the summer holidays and part-time during the academic year. However, it's worth checking the employment conditions and contract provisions.
Question
What are the costs associated with a student visa?
Answer
The consular fee is approximately €80, although government scholarship holders may be exempt. Additionally, you need to add the costs of sworn translations of documents, health insurance, and any medical examinations.
