Visa requirements

Poland

General visa requirements for travelling to Poland. These policies apply to all nationalities unless a country-specific policy exists.

Have a specific passport country? Check your specific route.

Business visa (Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) - Business)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay
90 days
Processing time
15 calendar days standard, up to 45 calendar days if additional checks needed
Fee
EUR 90 (adults), EUR 45 (children 6-11), free (children under 6)
Validity
90 days within any 180-day period
Entry
Single entry

Schengen Type C visa for business meetings, conferences, trade fairs, and professional activities not involving employment in Poland. Frequent business travelers may be eligible for multiple-entry visas valid for 1-5 years. Apply at least 30 days before intended travel, up to 6 months in advance.

Eligibility

  • Nationality

    Nationals of Annex I countries under EU Regulation 2018/1806.

  • Purpose of visit

    Business meetings, conferences, trade fairs, negotiations, or professional consultations. Must not involve paid employment in Poland.

    Includes
    • Business meetings
    • conferences
    • trade fairs
    • negotiations
  • Financial

    Must demonstrate sufficient financial means, either personal or through company sponsorship.

Documents you need

  • Passport

    Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 3

  • Photo

    Count: 2; Specifications: 35x45mm, colour, light background

  • Bank statement

    Months required: 3

  • Employment letter

    Provide a signed employer letter confirming your role, leave dates, salary and return to work.

    Must include leave approval: Yes; Must include position: Yes; Must include salary: Yes

  • Accommodation proof

    Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.

    Accepted types: Hotel reservation or accommodation arranged by inviting company; Must cover full stay: No

  • Flight reservation

    Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

    Must be confirmed: No; Must show return: Yes

  • Invitation letter

    Host requirements: Must include company name, registration number, address, purpose of visit, duration, and contact details

  • Application form

    Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

    Form name: Schengen visa application form; Form url: https://secure.e-konsulat.gov.pl/

  • Cover letter

    Explain the purpose of travel, travel dates, who will pay, and why you will leave before the visa or permission expires.

  • Visa fee payment

    Accepted methods: Cash, card; Amount: EUR 90

How to apply

  1. Document gathering

    Gather all required documents including business invitation, employer letter, passport, photos, insurance, and financial proof.

  2. Online application

    Complete the Schengen visa application form via e-Konsulat (https://secure.e-konsulat.gov.pl/).

  3. Appointment booking

    Book an appointment at the Polish embassy, consulate, or VFS Global center.

  4. Fee payment

    Pay the visa application fee of EUR 90.

  5. Document submission

    Submit all documents in person during your appointment.

  6. Biometrics

    Provide biometric data unless done for another Schengen visa within the past 59 months.

  7. Processing wait

    Wait for processing, typically 15 calendar days.

  8. Visa collection

    Collect your passport with the visa sticker.

Sign in to apply

Diplomatic visa (Diplomatic Visa)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Processing time
Priority processing, typically 5-10 working days
Fee
None (fee waived for diplomatic passports)
Validity
Duration of diplomatic assignment; short-stay or long-stay depending on mission
Entry
Multiple entry

Diplomatic visas are issued to holders of diplomatic passports traveling to Poland for official governmental or international organization duties. Many countries have bilateral visa waiver agreements for diplomatic passport holders. Accredited diplomats posted to Polish missions may receive a special diplomatic residence card. Holders of diplomatic passports from numerous countries enjoy visa-free entry for short stays based on bilateral agreements. The visa fee is waived for diplomatic passport holders. EU/EEA/Swiss diplomatic passport holders do not require any visa.

Eligibility

  • Nationality

    Holders of valid diplomatic passports from any country. Many countries have bilateral visa exemption agreements for diplomatic passport holders.

  • Purpose of visit

    Must be traveling for official diplomatic, governmental, or international organization purposes.

    Includes
    • Official diplomatic duties

Documents you need

  • Passport

    Validity months: 3

  • Application form

    Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

    Form name: Diplomatic note (Note Verbale)

How to apply

  1. Document gathering

    Obtain diplomatic note (Note Verbale) from sending country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

  2. Document submission

    Submit diplomatic note, diplomatic passport, and visa application through official diplomatic channels (Ministry of Foreign Affairs or diplomatic mission).

  3. Processing wait

    Priority processing, typically 5-10 working days.

  4. Visa collection

    Collect passport with diplomatic visa through diplomatic channels.

Sign in to apply

Tourist visa (Schengen Short-Stay Visa-Free Access (Annex II Countries))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Visa free

Maximum stay
90 days
Processing time
N/A
Fee
None (ETIAS EUR 7 from late 2026)
Validity
90 days within any 180-day period
Entry
Multiple entry

Nationals of Annex II countries under EU Regulation 2018/1806 may enter Poland and the Schengen Area without a visa for short stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. ETIAS pre-travel authorization (EUR 7) will be required from late 2026. For Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Kosovo, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, and Ukraine, the visa-free regime applies only to holders of biometric passports. Serbia exception: holders of passports issued by the Serbian Coordination Directorate are not visa-exempt.

Eligibility

  • Nationality

    Must hold a passport from an Annex II country listed in EU Regulation 2018/1806.

  • Purpose of visit

    Visit must be for tourism, business meetings, family visits, or other short-stay purposes. Not permitted to work or study.

    Includes
    • Tourism
    • business meetings
    • family visits
    • short-stay activities
  • Criminal record

    Must not be listed in the Schengen Information System (SIS) as inadmissible.

Documents you need

  • Passport

    Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 3

  • Accommodation proof

    Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.

    Accepted types: Hotel reservation, host invitation, etc.; Must cover full stay: No

Sign in to apply

Tourist visa (EU/EEA/Swiss Free Movement)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Visa free

Processing time
N/A
Fee
None
Validity
Unlimited as EU/EEA/CH citizens
Entry
Multiple entry

EU, EEA (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway) and Swiss nationals have full freedom of movement within Poland. No visa or residence permit required for any duration. Right to live and work freely. National ID card or passport sufficient for entry. After 3 months of stay, EU citizens should register their residence with the local voivode.

Eligibility

  • Nationality

    Must be a citizen of an EU member state, EEA country (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway), or Switzerland.

Documents you need

  • Passport

    Validity months: 0

Sign in to apply

Transit visa (Schengen Transit Visa (Type C - Transit))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay
5 days
Processing time
15 calendar days
Fee
EUR 90
Validity
Up to 5 days for transit through the Schengen area
Entry
Single entry

Required for Annex I nationals who need to pass through the Schengen area (land, sea, or air with passport control) to reach a non-Schengen destination. This is distinct from the Airport Transit Visa (Type A) which is only for staying in the international transit zone.

Eligibility

  • Nationality

    Nationals of Annex I countries who need to transit through the Schengen area with passport control.

  • Purpose of visit

    Transit only. Must have valid visa or entry permission for the final destination country.

    Includes
    • Transit

Documents you need

  • Passport

    Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 3

  • Photo

    Count: 2; Specifications: 35x45mm

  • Flight reservation

    Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

    Must be confirmed: Yes; Must show return: No

  • Application form

    Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

    Form name: Schengen visa application form; Form url: https://secure.e-konsulat.gov.pl/

  • Visa fee payment

    Accepted methods: Cash, card; Amount: EUR 90

How to apply

  1. Document gathering

    Gather passport, photos, transit flight tickets, destination visa, and insurance.

  2. Online application

    Complete Schengen visa application form for transit purpose via e-Konsulat.

  3. Appointment booking

    Book appointment at Polish embassy or consulate.

  4. Fee payment

    Pay visa fee of EUR 90.

  5. Document submission

    Submit all documents in person.

  6. Biometrics

    Provide biometric data if not recorded within 59 months.

  7. Processing wait

    Wait for processing, typically 15 calendar days.

  8. Visa collection

    Collect passport with transit visa sticker.

Sign in to apply

Work / Immigration visa (EU Blue Card - Highly Qualified Workers)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay
365 days
Processing time
Visa D: 15-30 working days; Blue Card residence permit: 1-3 months
Fee
EUR 135 (National Visa D) + PLN 440 (residence permit)
Validity
Visa D up to 1 year; then EU Blue Card residence permit valid for duration of contract plus 3 months, maximum 4 years
Entry
Multiple entry

The EU Blue Card is for highly qualified third-country nationals. As of June 2025 reforms, the minimum employment contract duration has been reduced from one year to six months. Applicants with at least three years of relevant work experience can qualify, particularly in high-demand sectors like IT, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence, even without a university degree. The salary must be at least 1.5 times the average gross annual salary in Poland (or 1.2 times for shortage occupations). The Blue Card holder enters on a Visa D and then applies for the Blue Card residence permit at the local voivodeship office after arrival.

Eligibility

  • Nationality

    Third-country nationals (non-EU/EEA/Swiss) with high qualifications.

  • Employment

    Must have an employment contract of at least 6 months duration with salary at least 1.5 times the average gross annual salary in Poland (1.2 times for shortage occupations). Higher education degree or 3 years relevant professional experience in high-demand sectors.

    Required status: Employment contract meeting Blue Card salary requirements

  • Financial

    Employment contract must meet minimum salary thresholds for the EU Blue Card.

    Minimum funds: 1.5x average gross salary (or 1.2x for shortage occupations)

Documents you need

  • Passport

    Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 3

  • Photo

    Count: 2; Specifications: 35x45mm, colour

  • Accommodation proof

    Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.

    Accepted types: Rental agreement or employer-provided housing; Must cover full stay: No

  • Application form

    Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

    Form name: National visa D and EU Blue Card application; Form url: https://secure.e-konsulat.gov.pl/

  • Visa fee payment

    Accepted methods: Cash, card; Amount: EUR 135 (visa) + PLN 440 (Blue Card residence permit)

  • Curriculum vitae

    Provide a current CV showing education, work history and relevant qualifications.

  • Academic transcript

    Provide academic records for the course, qualification or training route.

    Must be notarized: Yes; Must be translated: Yes

  • Work contract

    Provide a signed job offer, contract or assignment letter showing the role, dates and employer.

    Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: Yes

How to apply

  1. Document gathering

    Obtain employment contract meeting Blue Card salary requirements. Gather passport, photos, qualifications, CV, insurance, and accommodation proof.

  2. Online application

    Apply for Visa D via e-Konsulat system.

  3. Appointment booking

    Book appointment at Polish embassy or consulate.

  4. Fee payment

    Pay Visa D fee of EUR 135.

  5. Document submission

    Submit Visa D documents in person.

  6. Biometrics

    Provide biometric data.

  7. Processing wait

    Wait for Visa D processing (15-30 working days). After arrival in Poland, apply for EU Blue Card residence permit at the voivodeship office (1-3 months processing).

  8. Visa collection

    Collect passport with Visa D sticker. After arriving in Poland, collect EU Blue Card residence card from voivodeship office.

Sign in to apply

Work / Immigration visa (National Visa D - Work)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay
365 days
Processing time
15 working days standard, up to 30 days; work permit processing 3-6 months by voivodeship office
Fee
EUR 135 (National Visa D fee since June 2024)
Validity
Up to 1 year (Visa D); then apply for temporary residence and work permit valid up to 3 years
Entry
Multiple entry

National Visa D for employment in Poland. The employer must first obtain a work permit from the local voivodeship office before the employee applies for a visa. As of June 1, 2025, the labor market test is no longer required; instead, local authorities may create lists of professions for which work permits will not be issued, prioritizing Polish citizens. Work permits are valid up to 3 years for standard employees, or up to 5 years if the foreigner serves on the management board of a legal entity with over 25 employees. All work permit and declaration processes are moving online. Since June 26, 2024, all applications for Polish work visas must be submitted electronically through the e-Konsulat system.

Eligibility

  • Nationality

    Third-country nationals (non-EU/EEA/Swiss) who have a valid work permit or employer's declaration issued by a Polish employer.

  • Employment

    Must have a valid work permit issued by the voivodeship office, or an employer's declaration of intent to entrust work. The employer must apply for the work permit before the visa application.

    Required status: Valid work permit or employer's declaration

  • Purpose of visit

    Must be entering Poland for the purpose of employment as specified in the work permit.

    Includes
    • Employment
  • Criminal record

    Must not pose a threat to public policy, internal security, or public health.

Documents you need

  • Passport

    Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 3

  • Photo

    Count: 2; Specifications: 35x45mm, colour

  • Accommodation proof

    Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.

    Accepted types: Rental agreement, employer-provided housing, or host declaration; Must cover full stay: No

  • Application form

    Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

    Form name: National visa D application form; Form url: https://secure.e-konsulat.gov.pl/

  • Visa fee payment

    Accepted methods: Cash, card; Amount: EUR 135

  • Work contract

    Provide a signed job offer, contract or assignment letter showing the role, dates and employer.

    Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: Yes

How to apply

  1. Document gathering

    Employer obtains work permit from voivodeship office. Employee gathers passport, photos, work permit, employment contract, insurance, and accommodation proof.

  2. Online application

    Submit the national visa D application electronically through the e-Konsulat system (https://secure.e-konsulat.gov.pl/).

  3. Appointment booking

    Book an appointment at the Polish embassy or consulate via e-Konsulat.

  4. Fee payment

    Pay the national visa D application fee of EUR 135.

  5. Document submission

    Submit all documents in person at the embassy or consulate.

  6. Biometrics

    Provide biometric data (fingerprints and photograph).

  7. Processing wait

    Wait for visa processing, typically 15 working days, up to 30 days.

  8. Visa collection

    Collect your passport with the visa D sticker.

Sign in to apply

Tourist visa (Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) - Tourism)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay
90 days
Processing time
15 calendar days standard, up to 45 calendar days if additional checks needed
Fee
EUR 90 (adults), EUR 45 (children 6-11), free (children under 6)
Validity
90 days within any 180-day period
Entry
Single entry

Standard Schengen Type C visa for tourism purposes. Nationals of Annex I countries under EU Regulation 2018/1806 must apply at a Polish embassy or consulate via the e-Konsulat system. Applications may be submitted 6 months to 15 days before travel. Multiple-entry visas with longer validity may be issued for frequent travelers. Since June 11, 2024, the standard Schengen visa fee is EUR 90 for adults.

Eligibility

  • Nationality

    Nationals of Annex I countries under EU Regulation 2018/1806 who require a Schengen visa for short stays.

  • Financial

    Must demonstrate sufficient financial means to cover accommodation, living expenses, and return travel.

  • Purpose of visit

    Must demonstrate genuine tourism purpose with a clear itinerary and return travel plans.

    Includes
    • Tourism
  • Criminal record

    Must not be listed in the Schengen Information System (SIS). Must not pose a threat to public policy, internal security, or public health.

Documents you need

  • Passport

    Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 3

  • Photo

    Count: 2; Specifications: 35x45mm, colour, light background, full face

  • Bank statement

    Months required: 3

  • Accommodation proof

    Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.

    Accepted types: Hotel reservation, rental agreement, or invitation letter from host; Must cover full stay: Yes

  • Flight reservation

    Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

    Must be confirmed: No; Must show return: Yes

  • Application form

    Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

    Form name: Schengen visa application form; Form url: https://secure.e-konsulat.gov.pl/

  • Cover letter

    Explain the purpose of travel, travel dates, who will pay, and why you will leave before the visa or permission expires.

  • Travel itinerary

    Provide an itinerary showing travel dates, destinations and planned accommodation.

    Must include addresses: Yes; Must include dates: Yes

  • Visa fee payment

    Accepted methods: Cash, card (varies by location); Amount: EUR 90

  • Hotel booking

    Must be confirmed: Yes; Must cover full stay: Yes

How to apply

  1. Document gathering

    Gather all required documents including passport, photos, insurance, financial proof, accommodation proof, and flight reservations.

  2. Online application

    Register on the e-Konsulat system (https://secure.e-konsulat.gov.pl/) and complete the Schengen visa application form online.

  3. Appointment booking

    Book an appointment at the Polish embassy, consulate, or authorized VFS Global center via e-Konsulat.

  4. Fee payment

    Pay the visa application fee of EUR 90 (adults) at the time of submission. Additional service fees may apply at VFS Global.

  5. Document submission

    Submit all documents in person at the embassy, consulate, or VFS Global center during your appointment.

  6. Biometrics

    Provide biometric data (10 fingerprints and digital photograph) unless done for another Schengen visa within the past 59 months.

  7. Processing wait

    Wait for processing, typically 15 calendar days. May take up to 45 days if additional checks are required.

  8. Visa collection

    Collect your passport with the visa sticker from the embassy, consulate, or VFS Global center.

Sign in to apply

Transit visa (Airport Transit Visa (Type A))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay
1 days
Processing time
15 calendar days
Fee
EUR 90
Validity
Valid for the date(s) of transit only
Entry
Single entry

Required for nationals of the 12 countries on the common EU airport transit visa list when transiting through the international transit zone of a Polish airport without entering the Schengen area. Poland follows only the common EU list and does not add additional countries. Exempt if holding: a valid Schengen visa or national long-stay visa from any Schengen country, a valid residence permit from a Schengen member state, a valid visa from Canada, Japan, or the USA, or a diplomatic passport.

Eligibility

  • Nationality

    Required only for nationals of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Democratic Republic of Congo, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Ghana, Iran, Iraq, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia, and Sri Lanka.

Documents you need

  • Passport

    Validity months: 3

  • Photo

    Count: 2; Specifications: 35x45mm

  • Flight reservation

    Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

    Must be confirmed: Yes; Must show return: No

  • Application form

    Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

    Form name: Schengen visa application form (airport transit); Form url: https://secure.e-konsulat.gov.pl/

  • Visa fee payment

    Accepted methods: Cash, card; Amount: EUR 90

How to apply

  1. Document gathering

    Gather passport, photos, confirmed onward flight tickets, and any visa for the destination country.

  2. Online application

    Complete the Schengen visa application form for airport transit via e-Konsulat.

  3. Appointment booking

    Book an appointment at the Polish embassy or consulate.

  4. Fee payment

    Pay the visa fee of EUR 90.

  5. Document submission

    Submit all documents in person.

  6. Biometrics

    Provide biometric data if not recorded within the past 59 months.

  7. Processing wait

    Wait for processing, typically 15 calendar days.

  8. Visa collection

    Collect passport with the transit visa sticker.

Sign in to apply

Medical visa (Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) - Medical Treatment)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay
90 days
Processing time
15 calendar days standard, up to 45 calendar days
Fee
EUR 90 (adults)
Validity
90 days within any 180-day period
Entry
Single entry

Schengen Type C visa for medical treatment in Poland for stays up to 90 days. For treatments requiring longer stays, a National D-type visa must be applied for instead. Authorities may award a limited territorial visa if the medical tourist only plans to visit Poland. Poland has well-regarded medical facilities, particularly in Warsaw, Krakow, and Wroclaw.

Eligibility

  • Nationality

    Nationals of Annex I countries under EU Regulation 2018/1806.

  • Purpose of visit

    Must be seeking specific medical treatment available in Poland. Must provide documentation from both home country doctor and Polish medical institution.

    Includes
    • Medical treatment
  • Financial

    Must demonstrate ability to cover medical treatment costs, accommodation, and living expenses.

  • Health

    Must provide medical documentation supporting the need for treatment in Poland.

Documents you need

  • Passport

    Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 3

  • Photo

    Count: 2; Specifications: 35x45mm, colour

  • Accommodation proof

    Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.

    Accepted types: Hospital admission confirmation or hotel booking near medical facility; Must cover full stay: No

  • Flight reservation

    Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

    Must be confirmed: No; Must show return: Yes

  • Application form

    Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

    Form name: Schengen visa application form; Form url: https://secure.e-konsulat.gov.pl/

  • Visa fee payment

    Accepted methods: Cash, card; Amount: EUR 90

How to apply

  1. Document gathering

    Gather medical reports, hospital appointment confirmation, passport, photos, insurance, and financial documents.

  2. Online application

    Complete the Schengen visa application form via e-Konsulat indicating medical treatment as purpose.

  3. Appointment booking

    Book an appointment at the Polish embassy, consulate, or VFS Global center.

  4. Fee payment

    Pay the visa application fee of EUR 90.

  5. Document submission

    Submit all documents in person during your appointment.

  6. Biometrics

    Provide biometric data if not recorded within the past 59 months.

  7. Processing wait

    Wait for processing, typically 15 calendar days.

  8. Visa collection

    Collect your passport with the visa sticker.

Sign in to apply

Journalist visa (National Visa D - Journalist/Foreign Correspondent)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay
365 days
Processing time
15-30 working days
Fee
EUR 135 (National Visa D fee)
Validity
Up to 1 year (Visa D); then apply for temporary residence permit
Entry
Multiple entry

National Visa D for foreign correspondents and journalists on long-term media assignments in Poland exceeding 90 days. After arrival, the journalist should apply for a temporary residence permit. Press accreditation from the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs is required for permanent foreign correspondents.

Eligibility

  • Nationality

    Third-country nationals (non-EU/EEA/Swiss) employed as journalists or media correspondents.

  • Employment

    Must be employed by or contracted to a recognized media organization for a long-term assignment in Poland.

    Required status: Employment or contract with media organization

Documents you need

  • Passport

    Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 3

  • Photo

    Count: 2; Specifications: 35x45mm, colour

  • Employment letter

    Provide a signed employer letter confirming your role, leave dates, salary and return to work.

    Must include leave approval: No; Must include position: Yes; Must include salary: Yes

  • Accommodation proof

    Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.

    Accepted types: Long-term accommodation proof; Must cover full stay: No

  • Application form

    Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

    Form name: National visa D application form; Form url: https://secure.e-konsulat.gov.pl/

  • Visa fee payment

    Accepted methods: Cash, card; Amount: EUR 135

  • Press credentials

    Provide a press card, assignment letter or accreditation from the media organisation you represent.

How to apply

  1. Document gathering

    Gather press credentials, media organization letters, passport, photos, insurance, and accommodation proof.

  2. Online application

    Submit the national visa D application via e-Konsulat.

  3. Appointment booking

    Book appointment at Polish embassy or consulate.

  4. Fee payment

    Pay national visa D fee of EUR 135.

  5. Document submission

    Submit all documents in person.

  6. Biometrics

    Provide biometric data.

  7. Processing wait

    Wait for processing, 15-30 working days.

  8. Visa collection

    Collect passport with visa D sticker.

Sign in to apply

Student visa (National Visa D - Student)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay
365 days
Processing time
15 working days standard, up to 30 days; 3 working days in urgent cases
Fee
EUR 135 (National Visa D fee since June 2024)
Validity
Up to 1 year (Visa D); then apply for temporary residence permit valid up to 15 months
Entry
Multiple entry

National Visa D for students enrolled or accepted at a Polish university or recognized educational institution. Valid for stays exceeding 90 days and up to 1 year. Permits travel in the territory of other Schengen Area Member States for up to 90 days during a 180-day period. After arrival, students should apply for a temporary residence permit for the purpose of studies, valid for up to 15 months. The first temporary residence permit for studies is granted for 15 months, or for the duration of the academic year extended by 3 months if shorter. Students may work without a work permit while studying in Poland. Since June 1, 2024, the national visa fee increased to EUR 135.

Eligibility

  • Nationality

    Third-country nationals (non-EU/EEA/Swiss) who have been accepted at a Polish educational institution.

  • Purpose of visit

    Must be enrolled or accepted for a study programme at a recognized Polish university or educational institution.

    Includes
    • Study
  • Financial

    Must demonstrate sufficient financial means: minimum PLN 776/month for living expenses plus PLN 2,500 for return travel.

    Minimum funds: PLN 776/month + PLN 2,500 return

  • Health

    Must have adequate health insurance coverage valid in Poland/Europe.

  • Criminal record

    Must not pose a threat to public policy, internal security, or public health. May be required to provide police clearance from country of residence.

Documents you need

  • Passport

    Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 3

  • Photo

    Count: 2; Specifications: 35x45mm, colour, not older than 6 months

  • Bank statement

    Months required: 3

  • Accommodation proof

    Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.

    Accepted types: Dormitory confirmation, rental agreement, or host declaration; Must cover full stay: No

  • Admission letter

    Must be notarized: No; Must be original: Yes; Must show program dates: Yes

  • Application form

    Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

    Form name: National visa D application form; Form url: https://secure.e-konsulat.gov.pl/

  • Visa fee payment

    Accepted methods: Cash, card; Amount: EUR 135

  • Private health insurance

    Minimum coverage: EUR 30,000

How to apply

  1. Document gathering

    Obtain acceptance letter from Polish educational institution and gather all required documents including passport, photos, insurance, and financial proof.

  2. Online application

    Register on the e-Konsulat system and complete the national visa D application form.

  3. Appointment booking

    Book an appointment at the Polish embassy or consulate in your country of residence via e-Konsulat.

  4. Fee payment

    Pay the national visa D application fee of EUR 135.

  5. Document submission

    Submit all documents in person at the embassy or consulate during your appointment.

  6. Biometrics

    Provide biometric data (fingerprints and photograph).

  7. Processing wait

    Wait for processing, typically 15 working days, up to 30 days. Urgent processing possible in 3 working days.

  8. Visa collection

    Collect your passport with the visa D sticker from the embassy or consulate.

Sign in to apply

Medical visa (National Visa D - Medical Treatment (Long-Stay))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay
365 days
Processing time
15-30 working days
Fee
EUR 135 (National Visa D fee)
Validity
Up to 1 year (Visa D); renewable for continued treatment
Entry
Multiple entry

National Visa D for medical treatment in Poland exceeding 90 days. Required when the planned medical treatment or recovery period extends beyond the 90-day Schengen short-stay limit. Must provide comprehensive medical documentation from both the home country and the receiving Polish medical institution.

Eligibility

  • Nationality

    Third-country nationals (non-EU/EEA/Swiss) requiring medical treatment in Poland exceeding 90 days.

  • Health

    Must provide comprehensive medical documentation from home country physician and Polish medical institution.

  • Financial

    Must demonstrate ability to cover medical treatment costs, accommodation, and living expenses.

Documents you need

  • Passport

    Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 3

  • Photo

    Count: 2; Specifications: 35x45mm, colour

  • Accommodation proof

    Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.

    Accepted types: Hospital admission confirmation or accommodation for treatment and recovery; Must cover full stay: No

  • Application form

    Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

    Form name: National visa D application form; Form url: https://secure.e-konsulat.gov.pl/

  • Visa fee payment

    Accepted methods: Cash, card; Amount: EUR 135

  • Private health insurance

    Minimum coverage: EUR 30,000

How to apply

  1. Document gathering

    Obtain medical documentation from home country doctor and confirmation from Polish medical institution. Gather passport, photos, insurance, and financial proof.

  2. Online application

    Submit national visa D application via e-Konsulat.

  3. Appointment booking

    Book appointment at Polish embassy or consulate.

  4. Fee payment

    Pay national visa D fee of EUR 135.

  5. Document submission

    Submit all documents in person.

  6. Biometrics

    Provide biometric data.

  7. Processing wait

    Wait for processing, 15-30 working days.

  8. Visa collection

    Collect passport with visa D sticker.

Sign in to apply

Journalist visa (Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) - Journalist/Media)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay
90 days
Processing time
15 calendar days standard, up to 45 calendar days
Fee
EUR 90 (adults)
Validity
90 days within any 180-day period
Entry
Single entry

Schengen Type C visa for journalists and media representatives on short-term assignments in Poland. Poland does not have a separate journalist visa category; media professionals apply for a standard Schengen C visa with journalist-specific supporting documents. For longer media assignments exceeding 90 days, a National Visa D must be obtained. Journalists covering events may need press accreditation from the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Eligibility

  • Nationality

    Nationals of Annex I countries under EU Regulation 2018/1806.

  • Purpose of visit

    Must be traveling for legitimate media or journalism purposes. Must have valid press credentials.

    Includes
    • Media coverage
    • journalism
  • Employment

    Must be employed by or contracted to a recognized media organization.

    Required status: Employment or contract with media organization

Documents you need

  • Passport

    Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 3

  • Photo

    Count: 2; Specifications: 35x45mm, colour

  • Employment letter

    Provide a signed employer letter confirming your role, leave dates, salary and return to work.

    Must include leave approval: No; Must include position: Yes; Must include salary: No

  • Accommodation proof

    Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.

    Accepted types: Hotel reservation or accommodation for media assignment; Must cover full stay: No

  • Flight reservation

    Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

    Must be confirmed: No; Must show return: Yes

  • Application form

    Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

    Form name: Schengen visa application form; Form url: https://secure.e-konsulat.gov.pl/

  • Cover letter

    Explain the purpose of travel, travel dates, who will pay, and why you will leave before the visa or permission expires.

  • Visa fee payment

    Accepted methods: Cash, card; Amount: EUR 90

  • Press credentials

    Provide a press card, assignment letter or accreditation from the media organisation you represent.

How to apply

  1. Document gathering

    Gather press credentials, media organization letter, passport, photos, insurance, and assignment details.

  2. Online application

    Complete the Schengen visa application form via e-Konsulat.

  3. Appointment booking

    Book an appointment at the Polish embassy or consulate.

  4. Fee payment

    Pay the visa fee of EUR 90.

  5. Document submission

    Submit all documents in person during your appointment.

  6. Biometrics

    Provide biometric data if not recorded within 59 months.

  7. Processing wait

    Wait for processing, typically 15 calendar days.

  8. Visa collection

    Collect passport with the visa sticker.

Sign in to apply
This information is provided for general guidance only. Visa requirements can change frequently and may vary by nationality. Always verify with the official embassy or consulate before making travel plans. Contact [email protected] for assistance.