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How to obtain Polish citizenship in 2025: an overview of ways to do so

Home » blog » How to obtain Polish citizenship in 2025: an overview of ways to do so

Poland has changed borders, constitutions and regimes many times, but the question “how to obtain Polish citizenship” has always remained relevant. Today, in 2025, the laws have simplified the procedures but tightened the requirements. In order to obtain an EU passport, not only certificates are important, but also a competent approach.

Law through roots: the origin and map of the Pole

Nationality remains the shortest route to citizenship status. The law provides for the possibility to prove descent through the line of parents and grandparents. Having archival evidence of the Polish nationality of ancestors gives access to the Pole Card, a key document that significantly speeds up the processing of civil status.

In 2025, the card gives a free visa, a simplified residence permit and after one year – a permanent residence permit with the right to apply for citizenship. It is important to prove not only kinship, but also cultural connection: language, history, participation in the diaspora. Without this, you will be refused, even if you have the documents.

Polish passport through marriage: myths and realities

Union with a Polish citizen does not automatically guarantee a passport. The law requires cohabitation in the country for a minimum of two years for residence permit, followed by another year for permanent residence. Registration of marriage abroad is not enough. It is important to reside in Poland, maintain a common household and be prepared for inspections by the Voivodeship Office. Fake marriages are detected with astonishing accuracy – up to 75 per cent of applications are rejected for this reason.

Birth in the territory: right of place

Being born in Poland does not always give grounds for a passport. Unlike the United States, the country applies the principle of jus sanguinis – the right of blood, not territory. But a child born to parents with permanent residence permits is eligible to apply for Polish citizenship.

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If one of the parents is a citizen and the other is a foreigner, the child automatically receives citizenship status. At the same time, the system of dual citizenship status is allowed, which is favourable for families with an international composition.

Accommodation: a path through stability

Long-term legal residence is the most predictable way. First, a temporary residence permit (2-3 years), then a permanent residence permit, and only then an application for citizenship. According to statistics, in 2024, more than 35% of newly minted citizens followed this route.

The main thing is not to interrupt legal residence and fulfil tax obligations. How to become a Polish citizen in this case is a matter of discipline. The voivode takes into account not only the length of stay, but also the level of integration: language, work, participation in society.

How to obtain Polish citizenship through real estate

Investments in Polish real estate do not grant automatic citizenship, but provide a platform for legalisation. Buying a flat worth €150,000 or more in Warsaw or Krakow allows you to obtain a long-term visa based on rental income. After five years – the opportunity to apply for permanent residence, then – to get a Polish passport.

It is important not just to buy housing, but to confirm sources of income, pay taxes, and register a rental business. This approach is favoured by the state because it contributes to the economy.

Stability and tax discipline

Official employment in Poland opens the way to permanent residence and then to citizenship. The employer applies for a permit, after which a temporary residence permit is issued. In case of continuous employment for 5 years and compliance with all tax regulations, the right to apply for Polish citizenship appears.

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Highly qualified specialists get an advantage – for them the period can be reduced to 3 years. IT experts, engineers, doctors and teachers of technical universities are particularly valued. Knowledge of the national language and availability of housing are also taken into account. Dismissal, relocation or breach of contract automatically resets the “years counter”.

Language as a tool for integration

Polish legislation treats language not as a formality but as a key indicator of integration. Regardless of the grounds, every candidate is obliged to pass the state examination in Polish at the B1 level. The only exception is for persons who have been educated in the country.

In 2024, the rejection rate due to failure to pass the language exceeded 22 per cent. The problem is not grammar, but the inability to conduct a lively dialogue. The Commission does not test theory, but everyday speech, communication skills and understanding of Polish culture. Without a confident command of the language, the question of how to obtain Polish citizenship becomes a dead end.

Humanitarian and exceptional cases

The Minister of the Interior is authorised to grant individual citizenship status. Cases concern refugees, figures of science, sport and culture. For example, in 2023 a foreigner was granted citizenship for his contribution to the development of Polish neurosurgery. Such exceptions are not subject to the general rules and cannot be predicted.

Naturalisation under a simplified procedure is also possible for citizens of Ukraine, Belarus and Georgia. But even in these cases language, residence and legal status are mandatory.

How to obtain Polish citizenship in 2025

The candidate must pass a final background check before submitting the paperwork. The Voivodeship Office evaluates:

  • Having a legitimate source of income;
  • no criminal record;
  • full fiscal discipline;
  • level of integration;
  • housing or long-term leases.

If all conditions are fulfilled, the decision takes from 3 to 12 months. Refusal is possible even if all formalities are fulfilled – Polish citizenship is not included in the list of automatic rights.  It is a discretionary decision of the state.

Conclusion

Citizenship status is not granted formally. Each case requires a real connection to the country – through origin, residence, work or culture. The law becomes stricter but remains accessible with a clear strategy. It is important not to look for loopholes, but to choose the right path and follow it to the end. How to obtain Polish citizenship is a matter of engagement, not formalities.

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How to move to Poland for permanent residence: detailed instructions for investors

Poland attracts investors from all over the world by offering favourable conditions for obtaining permanent residence and citizenship. In recent years, this process has become more accessible and understandable thanks to a variety of programmes and support from the Polish authorities. It is possible to move to Poland for permanent residence through several types of investments, starting with the purchase of property and ending with the registration of a business. It is important to learn all the steps, requirements and conditions to make this process as easy and profitable as possible. В

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Advantages of moving to Poland for permanent residence for investors

Moving to Poland for permanent residence through investment is a chance to gain stability, confidence in the future and access to huge business opportunities in the EU. The country is located in the very centre of Europe, which makes it an ideal place for those who want to scale up and enter international markets. The state also offers low taxes for businessmen and investors, as well as a high quality of life.

One of the main advantages is the open route to the European Union, which offers visa-free access to 27 countries, including Germany, France, the UK and other major economic centres. By taking advantage of programmes to move to Poland for permanent residence, an investor receives not only economic benefits, but also a large number of rights and freedoms available to EU citizens.

The tax system here attracts entrepreneurs with moderate rates. For example, the profit tax rate for small and medium-sized companies is 19%, which is significantly lower than in some other EU countries. For some types of activities, tax incentives and subsidies from the Polish government may be applied. Poland actively supports startups and innovative companies, providing grants and subsidies for those who create new jobs and develop the country’s economy.

It is also a country with high quality health care, excellent living conditions, high security and cleanliness. Salaries are growing here, and the convenient location and extensive transport network make the territory convenient for permanent residence. Taking into account the totality of factors – moving to Poland for permanent residence is attractive for foreign investors.

Investment programmes for obtaining residence permit and permanent residence in Poland

One of the most popular ways to move to Poland for permanent residence is to participate in an investment programme. Depending on the amount and type of investment, various options for obtaining residency status are possible. It can be buying property, starting a business, buying government bonds or other forms of investment activity. All programmes have clear criteria and deadlines within which the required conditions must be met:

  1. Buying a property: the investment amount starts from 300,000 euros, depending on the region and type of property. This investment can provide not only a residence permit, but also a stable rental income.
  2. Business registration: starting a company in the country requires an investment of between 100,000 and 500,000 euros, depending on the field of activity. Entrepreneurs can obtain a residence permit for up to 2 years with the possibility of extension.
  3. Buying government bonds: this method involves purchasing at least 1 million euros worth of Polish government bonds, which guarantees a residence permit for up to 5 years.

Depending on the option chosen, the investor must provide a certain package of documents, including a business plan (if starting a company), information on income and sources of funds, and proof of investment. All this is done to show that the person intends to contribute to the country’s economy and will contribute to its development.

What documents you need to move to Poland for permanent residence

What documents do I need to move to Poland for permanent residence? The answer to this question depends on the chosen investment programme and specific conditions. In order to start the process of obtaining a residence permit, it is necessary to prepare a package of documentation including several mandatory elements:

  1. Passport valid at the time of application, with copies of all pages, and photographs for identification.
  2. Copies of bank accounts, tax returns or other documents proving the availability of funds for investment. This may be a bank statement or income document.
  3. The investor must provide evidence that the funds for the investment are legitimate and not related to criminal activity. This can be, for example, a contract with a partner or a property transaction document.
  4. To apply for a residence permit through the establishment of a business, it is necessary to submit a business plan, which will be evaluated by the Polish authorities.
  5. Health insurance, which should cover all possible costs of medical treatment in Poland for the duration of the visa.
  6. Documents proving residence in the country: rented accommodation, signed contract or proof of real estate.

It is important that all documents are translated into Polish and fulfil the requirements set out in the visa application instructions.

Step-by-step instructions: how to apply for permanent residence in Poland

The application process to move to Poland for permanent residence includes several stages, each of which has its own peculiarities and requirements:

  1. Choosing the type of investment. First you need to choose which investment programme to use to obtain a residence permit. This can be buying property, setting up a business or other options.
  2. Document preparation. All necessary materials, including proof of financial solvency, health insurance and proof of source of income, must be gathered in advance.
  3. Submission of the application to the consulate or immigration authorities. The application for a residence permit is submitted to the Polish consulate in the country of residence. In some cases, an interview will be required.
  4. Waiting for a decision. After submitting the documents, it remains to wait for a decision from the Polish authorities. This may take several months, depending on the programme.
  5. Obtaining a residence permit and starting to live in Poland. After the application is approved, the investor will receive a visa to reside in Poland for up to 2 years with the possibility of extension.
  6. Transition to PML. After several years of permanent residence, it is possible to apply for permanent residence by providing evidence that all conditions for permanent status have been met.

These steps can vary slightly depending on the type of investment, so it is important to consult with immigration experts beforehand.

How to obtain citizenship in Poland through investments

One of the main conditions for citizenship is to have a stable source of income, as well as active participation in the economic life of the country. For example, for those who have established a successful business, it is important to prove that the company generates income and provides jobs.

Testimonials from real investors: is it worth moving to Poland for permanent residence?

Testimonials from real investors who have already gone through the process of obtaining a residence permit often emphasise several key factors that influenced their choice. In most cases, people are pleased with the low taxes, high-quality infrastructure and business development opportunities.

Many note that the move gave them access to European markets and allowed them to scale their firms into new territories. Investors who have purchased property also emphasise that the housing market in Poland continues to grow, providing additional profit opportunities.

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Conclusion

Moving to Poland for permanent residence means a better quality of life and a chance to develop your business in a stable and economically favourable environment. The country, thanks to its location in the centre of Europe, dynamically developing economy and favourable tax system, is an attractive option for investors wishing to enter European markets and secure a better future for themselves.

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Differences between a residence permit and permanent residence: what is important to know before moving to a new country

One stamp on a document can turn freedom into a condition. The status indicated in the residence dictates not only the format of stay in the country, but also the scale of actions. The differences between a residence permit and permanent residence lie deeper than the legal shell: they determine who is temporarily supervising and who is truly embedded in the system. A new city, language, tax system — everything is changing. But the really important difference is how much stability a person can expect in this new reality.

Differences between a residence permit and permanent residence: the choice on which stability depends

Each relocation decision is accompanied by a status. And it depends on the model whether a person will make plans for three months or lay the foundation for three generations. The differences between a residence permit and permanent residence are manifested in small things — they ultimately determine the feeling of confidence in the future.

Legal binding: Flexibility versus stability

Temporary status creates a conditional right of residence. Deadlines, goals, conditions — everything is subject to verification. An error in the declaration, a change of job, or even a change of last name can trigger a new round of bureaucracy. In Poland, for example, a residence permit under an employment contract becomes invalid if the employer stops cooperating.

Permanent residence eliminates this risk. There is no need to prove why you are in the country — it is enough to comply with the basic laws. Housing, work, change of region — everything remains under personal control. This status is suitable for those who plan long-term residence abroad without fear of being expelled due to a technical error or a change in conditions.

Flexibility in actions: employment and business

The differences between a residence permit and permanent residence are clearly visible on a professional level. A temporary permit fixes a person within a specific activity. For example, a work permit does not give you the right to open a business or transfer to another company without a new request.

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Permanent status erases these boundaries. It becomes possible to launch a startup, switch between sectors, work for yourself, or combine activities. In the context of Poland, this means the opportunity to combine formal employment with freelancing, without informing the state at each change of direction.

Territorial movement: freedom within the country

Moving from Warsaw to Krakow is a logical step if your job is changing or your family is expanding. But with a residence permit, such a step requires updating the address in the registry, and sometimes a new permit, especially if it is a regional link to the voivodeship.

With permanent residence, this restriction does not exist. The location of residence does not matter, as does the change of ownership or lease. A person is free to choose a region, just like any citizen. This is crucial when looking for a job, a place to live, or a school.

Social system: different access to medicine and education

The differences between a residence permit and permanent residence relate not only to rights, but also to the level of service. Access to hospitals, educational institutions, courses, and language programs varies. A holder of a residence permit in Poland can receive assistance only in emergency cases or if they have paid insurance.

Permanent residence opens the doors to government clinics, gives the right to a waiting list for kindergarten, school, or benefits. In practice, this means equal opportunities with citizens. No extra paperwork, no extra charges, no explanations.

Terms and conditions of extension: reliability as a basis

Each extension of the temporary status requires documents. The validity period of the residence permit is from one to three years. Upon completion, there will be a new package of certificates, new checks, and new commissions. Failure is possible even with minor inconsistencies. This puts a strain on time, finances, and psychological well-being. Permanent residence fixes the status once and for all. The only obligation is not to leave the country for a long time (usually more than a year). The extension is reduced to a formal procedure without re-verification of the grounds.

Differences: where a residence permit is suitable, and where permanent residence is preferred

The differences between a residence permit and permanent residence are revealed in real situations:

  1. Study: A residence permit is suitable for the period of study, but does not automatically transfer to work. Permanent residence gives you complete freedom — you can study and work without restrictions.
  2. Work: Permanent residence allows you to change an employer or start a business without bureaucracy. A residence permit requires compliance with the purpose of entry.
  3. Family: Reunification is possible under both statuses, but with permanent residence, family members receive more social rights and protection from expulsion.
  4. Real estate: For permanent residence, it is allowed to purchase any object. A residence permit restricts ownership and requires additional approvals.
  5. Immigration: Permanent residence provides a path to citizenship after a minimum number of years. A residence permit is often not fully counted during this period.

When to choose permanent residence, when to get a residence permit

Choosing a status is not a matter of formality. This is a strategic decision. A residence permit is suitable for short projects, country testing, and temporary work. For those who intend to build a future — only permanent residence. In real-world cases, the difference becomes obvious. For example, an IT specialist with a residence permit in Poland will not be able to immediately switch to freelancing. The entrepreneur will not receive state support. The parent does not guarantee the child a place in the municipal kindergarten. All this is corrected by one document — a permanent residence permit.

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