Poland Student Visa Requirements
If you’re a non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizen, obtaining a student visa from your nearest Polish embassy/consulate is necessary. Upon arrival in Poland, applying for a temporary residence permit, preferably 45 days before your visa expiration, is essential to extend your stay.
For EU/EEA or Swiss citizens intending to study in Poland for over three months, only registering your stay in the country is required. Visas aren’t necessary for citizens with a “laissez-passer.”
Where to Apply for a Poland Student Visa?
You can apply for a Poland visa at:
- The Polish embassy or consulate in your country.
- The Polish embassy or consulate in a neighboring country.
- An embassy or consulate of another Schengen country handling visa submissions for Poland.
- Private visa application centers or agencies authorized by the Polish embassy.
Poland Student Visa Application Process
- Find the nearest Polish consulate/embassy and set up an appointment via the E-Konsulat website.
- Complete the application form online.
- Collect required documents (see list below).
- Submit the application in person at the Polish embassy/consulate.
- Attend a visa interview if required.
- Wait for the decision, usually within 15 days.
Supporting Documents for a Poland Student Visa Application
Documents required include:
- Completed visa application forms.
- Passport-sized photos.
- Valid passport.
- Health insurance.
- Proof of accommodation.
- Sufficient funds proof.
- University acceptance letter.
- Invitation letter (if applicable).
- Language proficiency proof.
- Scholarship documents (if applicable).
- Relationship status proof.
- Flight details proof.
- Paid visa fee receipt.
*Note: English language proficiency proof is unnecessary for native English speakers.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Poland Student Visa?
Processing time is typically up to 15 days. Apply as soon as you receive the university acceptance letter but no earlier than three months before enrollment, and be aware that processing may be longer during the summer season.
How Long Can I Stay in Poland with a Student Visa?
A Schengen visa allows a three-month stay, while a national student visa permits a one-year stay. For longer stays, apply for a Temporary Residence Permit (TRP) which initially allows an additional two years.
Can I Work in Poland With a Student Visa?
Yes, with a residence permit, you can work part-time during studies (20 hours/week) and full-time during breaks.
Is It Easy to Get a Job in Poland as a Student?
New Polish government regulations make it relatively easy for international students to find part-time jobs.
Can My Family Come with Me?
Family members can accompany you by applying for a residence permit as dependents, allowing them to work and study in Poland.
Can I Extend a Poland Student Visa?
Extensions aren’t possible. Apply for a temporary residence permit to study longer or return home and reapply for the visa.
How Can I Stay in Poland After I Graduate?
Find a job and apply for a residence permit. EU/EEA citizens only need to update their stay permit.
How To Get Permanent Residence in Poland After Student Visa?
After four years of continuous residence with a temporary permit, apply for a permanent residence permit, allowing unrestricted work.
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