For those with Polish roots who are ineligible for citizenship by descent– there is an exciting alternative.

The Pole’s Card
(Karta Polaka)

Key Benefits:

  • Residence and Work Permits in Poland.

  • Free Education and Emergency Health Care

  • A ‘Fast-Track’ to citizenship after residing in Poland for 12 months (language proficiency required)

PolandPassport.com can help you at all stages of this process including help with the exam and language proficiency. Our partners have a variety of online courses and the ability to help prepare your application. Contact us for more details!

 

History and Purpose of the Karta Polaka (Pole's Card)

The Karta Polaka (Pole's Card) was established in 2008. This law was introduced to support individuals of Polish origin who, due to historical circumstances, found themselves outside Poland's borders and for those ineligible for citizenship by descent.

The law recognizes the moral obligation of the Polish state to support Poles living outside Poland and others who feel a sense of Polish national identity, regardless of citizenship. The Karta Polaka (Pole's Card) confirms membership in the Polish Nation but does not grant citizenship automatically.  However, there is a ‘fast track’ to citizenship for those who obtain the Pole’s Card and live in Poland for 12 months.

Am I Eligible?

To obtain a Karta Polaka (Pole’s Card), applicants must meet specific criteria, primarily centered on their Polish heritage, language proficiency, and cultural connection.

It is important to note that individuals applying for the Karta Polaka (Pole’s Card) cannot already hold Polish citizenship or a permanent residence permit in Poland. Stateless individuals are also ineligible.

Key requirements include:

  • Cultural and Language Connection: Applicants must demonstrate a connection to Polish culture, including passing a test on their knowledge of Polish traditions, customs, and history. You must also speak Polish at least at a basic level (A2/B1) and pass an in-person test at a Polish consulate.

  • Proof of Polish Descent or participation in Polish cultural activities: Applicants must prove that they have at least one parent or grandparent, or two great-grandparents, of Polish nationality. Alternatively, active involvement in Polish organizations or cultural activities for at least three years can suffice.

  • Declaration of Belonging: In addition to the in-person test, in the presence of a Polish consul, applicants must submit a written declaration affirming their belonging to the Polish nation.

Benefits of the Karta Polaka (Pole’s Card)

While the Karta Polaka (Pole’s Card) does not automatically grant Polish citizenship, it offers several valuable benefits.

  • Visa-Free Travel: Holders can obtain a long-term national visa, allowing repeated entry into Poland without the need for additional documentation or consular fees.

  • Residence and Work Permits: Once in Poland, holders can quickly apply for residence and work permits.

  • Free Access to Services: The card allows free access to education, including university and doctoral studies, and emergency healthcare services in Poland.

  • Business and Settlement Benefits: Holders can run a business in Poland and are entitled to settlement cash benefits.

  • Pathway to Citizenship: The Karta Polaka (Pole’s Card) provides a fast-track route to Polish citizenship after 12 months of residing in Poland, though this is distinct from the grant of citizenship process.

How can Polandpassport.com help?

We will connect you with our trusted partners who can help you gain a strong knowledge of Poland, Polish traditions and customs, and basic Polish language skills via online learning.

They will accompany you every step of the way with guidance on how to pass the language and history test at your consulate.

Contact us to learn more!