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

Home » blog » 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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Naturalization citizenship: the path from residence permit to passport without unnecessary barriers

Acquiring citizenship is not a monologue of bureaucracy, but a chain of precise steps with specific conditions, especially in Poland. Here, naturalization is governed by clear requirements but offers real prospects. This form of acquiring legal status implies deep integration, documentary confirmation of legal residence, stable income, language proficiency, and absence of criminal records. The path is challenging but transparent.

Who and under what conditions can obtain citizenship by naturalization

Naturalization is possible when specific criteria are met, particularly the length of stay in the country. Obtaining citizenship in Poland is possible for foreigners who have legally resided for at least 3 years with a permanent place of residence and stable income. With Polish origin, the period is reduced to 1 year.

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Naturalization conditions:

  1. Permanent residence for a minimum of 3 years based on a permanent residence permit or long-term EU resident status.
  2. Income confirmation (e.g., employment with a salary of at least 3010 PLN gross per month).
  3. Proficiency in the Polish language – at least level B1, confirmed by a state certificate.
  4. Absence of criminal records.
  5. Knowledge of history, traditions, political system.

Naturalization in Poland requires strict adherence to the above parameters without exceptions.

Legalization of residence: visas, temporary residence permits, permanent residence permits

The direct path to citizenship always begins with a legal basis for residence. Immigration starts with a visa (type D – national), followed by a temporary residence permit, which is then converted into a permanent residence permit – a mandatory step before submitting documents. A visa is issued with the presence of a study program, contract, relatives, or investments.

A temporary residence permit is issued for a maximum of 3 years, requiring proof of housing and stable income. After 5 years of continuous residence in the country, a permanent residence permit can be obtained. Only after that can documents be submitted to obtain Polish citizenship.

Document package for obtaining citizenship by naturalization

Obtaining citizenship as a foreigner requires submitting a comprehensive document package to the voivodeship based on the place of residence. The process can take from 6 to 12 months.
The most crucial step is taking an oath of allegiance to the Republic of Poland – a mandatory act that concludes the entire process.

The list of documents includes:

  1. Application.
  2. Copies of passport and permanent residence card.
  3. Language proficiency certificate.
  4. Documents confirming income, employment, domicile.
  5. Certificates of no criminal record.
  6. Documents on residence in the country.

Citizenship by naturalization in Poland is granted by the President’s decree, after which the applicant receives a Polish passport.

Not obvious but important: language, traditions, reputation

Not only the legal but also the social context plays a crucial role. Poland evaluates integration not formally but substantively. Without respect for traditions, culture, history, and basic language knowledge, naturalization becomes impossible.

The system checks not only documents but also actual inclusion in society. Reputation plays a key role – confirmed work, participation in local initiatives, absence of violations, regular tax payments strengthen the application.

Key steps towards citizenship by naturalization

Each stage of the process is strictly regulated and requires documentary evidence. Citizenship status becomes real only with precise adherence to all conditions without deviations from the established procedure.

The path includes the following stages:

  1. Obtaining a national visa or other basis for residence.
  2. Obtaining a temporary residence permit with the right of extension.
  3. Legalization of domicile – confirmation of address, contract, utility payments.
  4. Accumulation of the required period of residence (3-5 years).
  5. Transition to permanent residence permit or EU resident status.
  6. Income and employment confirmation (minimum wage).
  7. Obtaining a B1 certificate in the Polish language.
  8. Collecting and submitting a complete document package.
  9. Successful interview, confirmation of integration.
  10. Taking the oath and receiving the passport.

Each step is important, deviations lead to refusal or delays.

What makes Poland competitive

Compared to other EU countries, Poland offers clear and achievable conditions for obtaining status.
For example, in France, 5 years of continuous residence and a high language level (B2) are required, in Germany – 8 years, in Austria – 10. In Poland, the rules are more flexible, the timelines are shorter, and the cost of legal support is lower.

The country also actively integrates foreigners through the labor market and education – over 80,000 students annually obtain temporary residence permits, and many of them transition to permanent residence permits and further to citizenship by naturalization in Poland.

Common mistakes in obtaining citizenship by naturalization

Obtaining citizenship often becomes unattainable due to formal and factual errors. The most common one is insufficient period of residence based on a permanent residence permit.
Staying on a visa or temporary residence permit does not count if not accompanied by proper registration and stable domicile. Applicants often overlook breaks in residence registration, which nullifies the entire period.

Another typical mistake is insufficient language proficiency. Even after living in the country for 10 years, without an official B1 certificate, obtaining status is impossible.
Cases are also common where candidates provide outdated income statements or violate the validity period of documents, automatically leading to rejection.

Lawyers recommend checking in advance:

  • accuracy of registration address;
  • status of all documents;
  • timeliness of certificates;
  • criminal record certificates from all countries of residence for the last 5 years.

Polish citizenship is granted only to those who strictly follow the sequence and do not leave gaps in legalization.

Simplified citizenship by naturalization: who gets the right faster

Certain groups can go through the process in an accelerated manner.
In particular, foreigners with Polish roots (direct line ancestors), spouses of Polish citizens (after living together for 3 years), and refugees recognized under the Geneva Convention.

These categories have a shortened period, simplified conditions for obtaining citizenship status, and a more lenient check.
For example, a spouse of a Polish citizen can apply for citizenship after just 2 years of residence based on a permanent residence permit. Language proficiency, absence of criminal records, and integration into society remain mandatory.

Investments: how real estate facilitates the path to citizenship

Polish citizenship can be obtained faster through investments in real estate. The law does not explicitly highlight investments as a basis, but practice shows that ownership of properties, leasing, tax payments, and participation in the economy create additional trust.

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This strategy works especially well when combined with a long-term permanent residence permit.
For example, when buying an apartment worth at least 600,000 PLN in major cities (Warsaw, Krakow, Wroclaw) – the investor receives favorable treatment and expedited document evaluation.
This approach often succeeds in the absence of other grounds for acceleration – such as kinship or origin.

Conclusion

Citizenship by naturalization in Poland is a clear and achievable process. Timelines, income, language, and social inclusion play a decisive role.
The procedure is transparent, the conditions are specific. Acceleration is possible – through real estate investments or family grounds. The Polish state maintains equal rules for everyone – without preferences based on origin or citizenship.

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Life in Poland: whether Russians should move here

Poland has become one of the most popular destinations for Russians looking for stability and opportunities in Europe. The proximity of cultures, an understandable language and economic attractiveness make this country convenient for life. However, not everything is so simple: the pluses are combined with objective minuses. Let’s look at life in Poland for Russians in detail in order to understand whether it is worth moving to this country.

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Moving to Poland for Russians: where to start a new stage of life?

Moving abroad requires careful preparation and knowledge of all legal intricacies. Poland offers several options for emigration and understanding these paths simplifies the process. Visa, documents, housing and finances – each of these steps requires attention.

Documents and visas for relocation

The most popular option for Russians is the D-type work visa, which allows you to work and stay in the country for up to 180 days a year. For longer stays, a residence permit is required.

List of required documents for a visa:

  1. A passport with a validity of at least six months.
  2. A work contract or an official invitation from a Polish employer.
  3. Health insurance of at least 30,000 €.
  4. Completed visa application form with up-to-date details.
  5. A receipt for the consular fee – about 60 €.
  6. Photographs of the prescribed format (3.5 × 4.5 cm).

Filing of documents takes place at consulates or visa centres. It takes up to 15 working days to process an application, but during the season it can take up to a month.

Alternative options for moving to Poland:

  1. Study visa for admission to Polish universities.
  2. Business visa for entrepreneurs planning to open or develop a business in Poland.
  3. Family reunification visa if relatives already reside in the country.

The country also attracts highly skilled professionals through the EU Blue Card, which provides residence permits for professionals.

Timing and nuances of obtaining a residence permit

Obtaining a residence permit takes from 3 to 6 months. The process requires the preparation of additional documents such as proof of financial solvency and residence. The application is submitted at the Office for Foreigners. Successfully obtaining a residence permit allows you to legally work and live in the country, and gives you the right to move freely within the Schengen area.

The benefits of living in Poland for Russians start already at this stage due to transparent rules and relatively simple emigration procedure.

Pros and cons of living in Poland for Russians

Emigrating to another country always comes with expectations and realities. The advantages and disadvantages of living in Poland will help to form an objective view of the new reality for Russians.

Benefits:

  1. Economic stability: the average salary in the country is around 1200-1500 € per month. For specialists in IT or medicine, incomes can reach 2500-3000 €. Poland is actively developing and the labour market offers many opportunities for career growth.
  2. Low cost of living: Compared to other EU countries, Poland enjoys affordable prices for food, housing and transport. Living in major cities requires less financial outlay than in Germany or France. For example, a basic food basket costs about 200 € per month.
  3. Cultural proximity: the Polish language is quite similar to Russian, which makes adaptation easier. The mentality of Poles is also close to Russians, which helps to find a common language faster.
  4. Convenient geographical location: Poland borders Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia and the Baltic States. Convenient location allows you to travel all over Europe without spending a lot of time and money.
  5. Quality medicine and education: Polish universities offer a high level of education and medical centres are equipped with modern equipment.

Disadvantages:

  1. Bureaucracy: the paperwork process can be time-consuming and require extra effort. The staff of state agencies strictly observe formalities.
  2. Language barrier: despite the similarity of languages, professional and legal vocabulary requires additional learning. To get a prestigious job, it is necessary to be fluent in Polish.
  3. Climatic conditions: Polish winters are cold and windy. Temperatures often drop to -10 °C, and spring and autumn can be rainy and grey.
  4. Sceptical attitudes towards migrants: although attitudes are more loyal in large cities, in smaller communities there is distrust of foreigners.

Жизнь в Польше для русских сочетает экономические преимущества и бытовые вызовы. Тщательная подготовка помогает минимизировать негативные аспекты.

Cost of living in Poland: monthly budget

The cost remains one of the most affordable among EU countries. Spending depends on the city, lifestyle and needs. On average, a family of four spends about 2000-2200 € per month, while one person only needs 800-1000 € for a comfortable stay.

Housing and utilities:

  1. Rent a flat in Warsaw: 800-1000 € per month.
  2. Renting a flat in Krakow or Gdansk: 600-700 €.
  3. Rent in small towns: 400-500 €.
  4. Utility bills: 150-200 € per month.

Groceries and transport:

  1. Food basket: 200-300 € per month per person.
  2. Bread: 1 €.
  3. Milk: 0.90 €.
  4. Meat: 7-10 € per kilo.
  5. Monthly pass: 40 €.

Work in Poland for Russians: opportunities and prospects for a better life

Working in the country offers many prospects for those who are ready to adapt and develop. Poland actively attracts foreign specialists, especially in such fields as IT, construction, medicine, logistics and service. The average salary varies depending on qualifications and city.

Popular occupations and salaries:

  1. IT specialists: developers, testers and analysts receive between 2000 and 4000 € per month. Polish companies are actively developing in the technological sphere and offer both office and remote work.
  2. Builders and working professions: the salary of bricklayers, welders and electricians is 1200-1800 €. The construction industry in Poland is experiencing a constant shortage of skilled labour.
  3. Health workers: doctors and nurses receive between 1500 and 3000 € depending on experience and specialisation. In order to work in the medical field, you need to prove your diploma and pass a Polish language test.
  4. Logistics and transport: truck drivers earn about 1800-2200 €, which makes this profession one of the most demanded among Russian migrants.

How to find a job in Poland?

  1. Labour exchanges: public and private labour exchanges offer vacancies for foreigners.
  2. Job search sites: popularne resources – Pracuj.pl, OLX.pl, LinkedIn.
  3. Employment agencies: companies help with job search, paperwork and adaptation.

Poland actively supports labour migration, and life for Russians in Poland is becoming easier due to the demand for workers.

Property in Poland: renting and buying a home

Property in the country attracts with affordable prices and transparent rules of registration. For Russian emigrants, buying a home becomes a good investment and a way to ensure stability:

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  1. Flats in Warsaw: 3000-4000 € per square metre.
  2. Krakow and Wroclaw: 2500-3500 € per square metre.
  3. Small towns: 1500-2000 € per square metre.

Conclusion

Life in Poland for Russians offers many advantages – from economic stability to cultural proximity. However, adaptation requires effort and readiness for new challenges. With the right preparation, moving to this country will be a successful and comfortable step towards a new life.

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