Visas for Poland

Getting a visa for Poland is relatively straightforward, especially since the country is party to the Schengen Agreement. EU and EEA nationals (as well as those of designated countries such as the US, Australia, New Zealand and Canada) can enter Poland without a visa for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Those from outside the EU/EEA and listed countries must apply for a Schengen visa to visit Poland. 

All travellers entering Poland should have a passport valid for at least three months past the date of entry, and it must have been issued within the last 10 years. 

The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), a new electronic travel authorisation for visa-exempt travellers, is expected to launch in mid-2025.

Schengen visas for Poland

If you're applying for a Schengen visa to Poland, you will need to gather the required documents, complete the visa application form, and submit these to the Polish embassy or consulate in your home country before you travel. All documents must be in English or Polish. The standard processing time is usually 15 to 21 calendar days, although this may vary during peak travel seasons.

If you're applying for a Schengen visa to travel to Poland for business, you may need to include a letter of invitation from the Polish business party and a letter from your local employer stating the purpose of your visit. For business invitations, it's advisable to attach an itinerary of planned activities. If you're attending a conference, proof of registration and accommodation may be required.

You'll also need to demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover your stay and provide evidence of your intention to return to your home country.

Useful links

• Polish Consular Services

Residence permits for Poland

If you wish to stay in Poland for longer than 90 days for work, study, or family reasons, you'll need to apply for a residence or temporary residence permit. Applications can be made at the regional office (Voivodeship Office) for the area you intend to live in. Starting in 2025, Poland is implementing an electronic submission portal for residence permit applications, which should streamline the process.

Temporary residence permits are granted for a maximum of three years and can be subsequently renewed. Processing times typically range from six weeks to several months. Be prepared for potential delays, especially in major cities.

When applying, you must provide comprehensive documentation, including valid travel documents, proof of purpose for your stay, and evidence of accommodation arrangements. You'll also need to demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support yourself and provide proof of valid health insurance coverage for Poland.

Once your residence permit application is approved, you'll receive a residence card, which serves as confirmation of your identity and legal status during your stay in Poland.

If your residence permit is connected to work, particularly for intra-corporate transfers, you'll face certain requirements. These include proving shareholding or management connections between companies, confirming actual business activities of the home entity, and submitting service contracts and additional documentation. Fast-track processing will become available for certain employers with urgent staffing needs.

Useful links

• Office for Foreigners – Residence Permit Information
• Migrant Information Portal
• Immigration Poland

Visa requirements can change at short notice, and you should contact your respective embassy or consulate for the latest details.