Obtaining a Polish Passport: a step-by-step Procedure
The Polish passport is undoubtedly one of the most valuable passports in the whole world. It opens up a wide range of opportunities to travel and enjoy many privileges. So if you are interested in obtaining a Polish passport, you have found the right place! After all, below we will guide you through the entire procedure step by step, so that you can apply for and obtain a Polish passport without any problems. You will find out what documents you need, how the application process works and how long it takes to wait for your passport to be issued.
Requirements and documents
To start the process of obtaining a Polish passport, you will need to meet certain requirements and prepare the relevant documents. Here is a list of the basic documents you will need:
- Passport application – available to download from the passport office website or you can collect it in person at your chosen passport application service point.
- A recent passport photograph – complying with the size and quality requirements.
- Identity card – original and photocopy.
- Document confirming Polish citizenship – this may be an identity card, certificate of Polish citizenship or other document confirming Polish citizenship.
- Documents confirming identity and marital status – such as birth certificate, marriage certificate, divorce certificate, change of name, etc.
- Documents confirming place of residence – such as meldunek, tenancy agreement or other document confirming residence on the territory of Poland.
Submission of the application
The next step, once all the required documents have been collected, is to go to the nearest passport office or passport application service point to submit the application in person. It is a good idea to make an appointment before your visit to avoid a long wait in line. When applying, you will be required to complete an application form, provide all the required documents and pay the passport fee.
Photograph and fingerprints
During the application process, you will be asked to provide a recent passport photo as required. Fingerprints are also usually taken at the passport office, which are later assigned to your passport.
Fees
Depending on the type of passport you wish to obtain (e.g. ordinary, temporary, for a child), the fee for issuing a passport may vary. Current rates are as follows:
- PLN 140 – for a passport valid for 10 years;
- PLN 70 – for a passport valid for 10 years, issued (subject to a 50% discount):
- to pensioners, disabled persons and their spouses who are their sole dependants;
- to persons staying in nursing homes or care institutions, or receiving social assistance in the form of permanent benefits;
- veterans and other persons who are victims of war and post-war repressions;
- to pupils aged 13 and over and students.
Issuing a passport to a minor up to the age of 13 (subject to a 50% discount):
- PLN 30 – for a passport issued to minors:
- until the start of statutory compulsory education;
- who are under compulsory education.
Issuing a passport to members of large families holding a valid Large Family Card
- PLN 15 – for a passport issued to children under 13 years of age;
- PLN 35 – for a passport issued to children aged between 13 and 25;
- PLN 70 – for a passport for parents and spouses of parents.
Waiting time
Once you have submitted your application and payment, you will have to wait for your passport to be issued. The waiting time may vary and depends on the workload of the passport office and the season. Usually the process takes a few weeks to several weeks. You can also contact the specific passport office for exact information on the estimated waiting time.
Receiving your passport
When your passport is ready, you will receive information from the passport office. Collecting your passport usually requires you to appear in person at the office or service point where you applied. You will need to show an identity document to confirm your identity. Remember that the passport can only be collected by the applicant in person, unless you are a minor, in which case the passport can be collected by one of your parents or guardians.
I am already a Polish citizen – what rights does my spouse and children have?
As a Polish citizen, you have the possibility to bring your non-EU spouse not only to Poland, but also to other EU member states. If you are married to a Polish citizen, your spouse will have similar rights to work and reside in the European Union. In addition, the holder of a Polish passport has the right to request that their children also acquire Polish citizenship.
If you have Polish ancestry, but are still wondering how to acquire Polish citizenship on the basis of ancestry and would like to find out whether you qualify to acquire Polish citizenship on that basis, you can visit https://fivetoeurope.com/polish-passport-application/, where, based on the information provided, we will be able to assist you in the process of acquiring Polish citizenship and a Polish passport!