Real estate in Poland

Reviews

Advantages

Blog

Leave a request

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

Home » blog » 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.

en_1140x464-11.gif

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.

slott__1140_362_en-4.webp

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.

Related posts

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

irwin_1140_362_en-4.webp

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.

starda_1140_362_en-4.webp

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.

Read

How to Choose Real Estate for Investments: Tips for Investors

Buying real estate for profit requires not intuition, but a cold-blooded assessment. Any mistake results in frozen capital or annual losses. To accurately determine how to choose real estate for investments, one must consider not only the location but also legal nuances, the current economy of the region, and real profitability calculations.

Evaluating Location and Growth Potential: How to Choose Real Estate for Investments

The attractiveness of an area is formed not by advertising, but by dry statistics and analysis of development. The demand for a location for investments is confirmed by a set of indicators: population growth, active infrastructure construction, price dynamics over the last 5 years, and renovation plans.

monro_1140_362_en-4.webp

For example, in St. Petersburg by 2025, the Primorsky district has recorded an annual increase in the value of a square meter at 11.3%. New metro stations, a school within 700 meters, and the launch of business centers create stable demand. In Krasnogorsk (Moscow region), a similar pace is demonstrated by the Pavshinskaya floodplain district: new buildings are sold out at the start, and renting a one-bedroom apartment brings 9.2% annual return.

Property Type: What and for Whom

Choosing real estate for investments in terms of format depends on the goals. The income strategy dictates the type of property:

  1. For stable rental income – studios and one-bedroom apartments in residential areas with good transport accessibility.
  2. For short-term income (resale) – investments in a foundation with a price peak after the house is completed.
  3. For diversification – apartment-hotels, commercial space with long-term tenants, or buying shares in income-generating properties.

In Kazan, for example, investments in apartments near the Kremlin embankment (closer to Chernyshevskogo Street) pay off in 7-8 years with a yield above 10%. A similar property on the outskirts pays off in 12-14 years. Location translates into payback time.

Legal Clarity and Documents

Any transaction without verification becomes a risk. Checking property documents, absence of debts and arrests, compliance with norms during renovations – all of this requires involving a lawyer. Court cases due to undisclosed encumbrances can drag on for 12-18 months and make the investment frozen.

Developers listed in reliable accredited banks provide extended guarantees. For example, in 2025, Sberbank and VTB accredited over 400 projects only in Moscow and the region. Accreditation provides confidence in compliance with the project declaration and financing for completing construction.

Yield Calculation

Choosing real estate for investments without the risk of overvaluation is only possible through objective mathematics. Yield is calculated not based on promises or emotional expectations but by a strict formula considering all cost and income elements. Roughly, the calculation is divided into three levels: entry cost, operating expenses, and return on investment model. Each indicator directly affects the final yield and payback periods.

Total Purchase Cost: More Than the Price on Display

The calculation starts with assessing total investments, not just the price on the website. For example, an apartment in St. Petersburg under a shared participation agreement costs 7.4 million rubles. However, the following points are considered to calculate the real cost:

  1. Repairs for rent – from 500,000 to 800,000 rubles (depending on the segment).

  2. Furniture and appliances – 300,000 rubles for a studio, 450,000 rubles for a 2-room apartment.

  3. Taxes on purchase (if a new building without VAT – 0 rubles; secondary market from an individual – 0 rubles; when purchasing through a legal entity – 13%).

  4. State registration and legal services – on average 50,000 rubles.

  5. Agent commission (if applicable) – up to 2% of the deal.

The final investment in the property can increase to 8.5 million rubles, which is 15% higher than the listed price. Only this approach allows for a precise understanding of how to choose real estate for investments with a realistic cost assessment.

Potential Revenue: Rent or Sale

The financial model depends on the goal:

  1. Rental. A 40 m² apartment near Moskovskaya metro station yields 45,000 rubles per month with long-term leasing, totaling 540,000 rubles per year. With short-term rentals, it can reach up to 85,000 rubles per month in the high season (and 40,000 rubles in the low season), but additional costs for cleaning and management apply.
  2. Resale. The same property, acquired at the foundation stage for 7.4 million rubles, can be sold for 10.2 million rubles after completion in 20 months. However, profit tax (if no individual entrepreneur status or exemption), realtor services, documentation, and marketing expenses need to be considered. Around 500,000 rubles will be spent.

Financing: Mortgage, Installment, Cash

Choosing real estate for investments with an optimal financing model is one of the key questions. The choice between full payment, mortgage, or developer with installment affects profitability.

The mortgage rate for investment purposes in 2025 is 15.2-17.5%, making it a viable option only for capital growth or short-term resale. Developer installment plans offer favorable 0-3% rates with a 30-50% down payment – as seen in “Samolyot Development” for a project in Kommunarka.

Investing in Commercial Real Estate

Offices, street retail, and warehouses are high-risk but high-yield assets. For investors exploring how to choose real estate for investments with profits above 10-12% annually, commercial properties can be an option. However, stable tenant profitability is crucial.

Example: a 45 m² space in the “Civilization on Neva” residential complex in St. Petersburg rented for a beauty salon brings in 110,000 rubles per month. The annual income is 1.32 million rubles. The purchase price is 13.7 million rubles. Net yield is 8.9%. If the business closes, losses can reach 100,000 rubles per month.

Risks and Investment Diversification

Investing in real estate without a reserve capital and investment diversification becomes vulnerable. It is advisable to distribute the portfolio: part in rental apartments, part in commercial properties, and the remainder in fund instruments.

Price decreases, tax increases, project freezes, communal reforms – all these factors reduce income. It is optimal to combine properties with different liquidity and locations: a million-city, a region with promising agglomeration, a tourist zone.

raken__1140_362_en-4.webp

Real strategies for 2025-2026:

  1. New construction at the start near a metro station – price growth of 20-25% during the construction cycle.
  2. Remodeling and daily rental – payback in 5 years.
  3. Commercial space with an anchor tenant – income of 9-12% annually.
  4. Apart-hotel in a federal tourist city – stable cash flow and capital growth.
  5. Investing in a developing residential complex with installment plans – minimal entry and fixed price.

How to Choose Real Estate for Investments: Conclusion

A step-by-step calculation, strategy, and cold analysis matter. Location, risks, financing model, and profitability forecasts all determine the final profit. A savvy investor compares not only prices but also development scenarios, evaluates timelines, and assesses liquidity prospects.

Read