Visa Information

Overview

General Information:

Purpose of travel:

Tourism / Other private visits

Applicants may apply for this visa category if they are traveling to Poland for one of the following purposes:

• sightseeing tours;
• pilgrimages;
• cultural and entertainment events, including attending concerts or theatre performances as a spectator.

Business trip / Work-related trip

Applicants may apply for this visa category if they are traveling to Poland for one of the following purposes:

• official business trips;
• self employed individuals traveling on business;
• drivers (international freight and passenger transport);
• journalists.

Educational, cultural, scientific, or artistic events

Applicants may apply for this visa category if they are traveling to Poland for one of the following purposes:

• • participation in sports events related to popular sports, as well as chess tournaments, dance competitions, etc.;
• participation of artists in cultural events, including music concerts, art workshops, exhibitions, etc.;
• first cycle, second cycle, full higher education, and third cycle education (doctoral studies);
• vocational education (e.g., professional development courses);
• other forms of education (e.g., participation in scientific conferences, studies in vocational colleges, language courses, preparatory courses, religious seminaries, holy orders, etc.);
• conducting scientific activities (lectures, seminars, or other classes);
• conducting scientific research;
• participation in cultural and educational exchange programs, humanitarian aid programs, and work and travel programs.

Visiting close relatives / family members / friends

Applicants may apply for this visa category if they are traveling to Poland to visit family or acquaintances whose legal residence status in the Republic of Poland is confirmed, including visiting children studying in educational institutions in Poland.

Medical treatment

Applicants may apply for this visa category if they are traveling to Poland for medical treatment.

Official delegations

Applicants may apply for this visa category if they are representatives of government institutions or international organizations traveling to perform official duties.

Other purposes

Applicants may apply for this visa category if they are traveling to Poland for one of the following purposes:

• traveling as an accompanying person (e.g., joint travel of children and parents, school trip supervisors, etc.);
• visa interviews in embassies of other states (e.g., individuals applying for a U.S. visa);
• obtaining a residence permit;
• attending a funeral;
• visiting cemeteries and memorial sites.

Visa Fees

Please note: All fees are to be paid in BYN at Visa Application Center

*Citizens of Belarus and other countries applying for a national visa, can be waived from paying the Visa Fee based on respective International Agreements

Service Fee

VFS service charge:

Apart from the visa fee, VFS service is charged in BYN of the equivalent of 18 Euros according to the National Bank of the Republic of Belarus exchange inclusive of VAT per application.

Visa fee and VFS Service Charge are to be paid at the visa application center in BYN only

• Please Note: Visa fee and VFS service charge are non-refundable.

Visa fees - Schengen visa.

Legal grounds:

The standard visa fee is 90 Euro in line with art. 16 of the European Parliament and Council (EU) Regulations No. 810/2009 of 13 July 2009 that established the Community Visa Code (Visa Code) (Journal of Law L 243 of 15 September 2009, art. 1).

Separate rules for issuing visas and fee payments for short-term visas (Schengen) are established for the citizens of the countries that have entered into the agreement with the European Community on the facilitation of visa issue procedure:

• Azerbaijan, effective from 01 September 2014
• Albania, valid from 01 January 2008
• Armenia, valid from 01 January 2014
• Belarus, valid from 01 July 2020
• Bosnia and Herzegovina, valid from 01 January 2008
• North Macedonia, valid from 01 January 2008.
• Georgia, valid from 01 March 2011
• Cape Verde, effective from 01 December 2014
• People’s Republic of China, visa facilitation agreement for tourist groups (ADS Agreement 2004)
• Moldova, valid from 01 July 2013
• Serbia, valid from 01 January 2008
• Ukraine, valid from 01 July 2013 r.
• Montenegro, valid from 01 January 2008

Categories of Belarus Citizens waived for Schengen visa fee payment based on the Visa Facilitation Agreement signed before Belarus and EU:

• children under 12 years old;
• citizens of the Republic of Belarus aged from 12 to 18 years who submit their visa applications at the consular departments of the Republic of Poland or visa centers in the territory of the Republic of Belarus;
• for members of national and regional Governments and Parliaments, Constitutional Courts and Supreme Courts, if they are not exempted from the visa requirement by this Agreement;
• for members of official delegations, including permanent members of official delegations, who, following an official invitation addressed to Belarus, shall participate in official meetings, consultations, negotiations or exchange programs, as well as in events held in the territory of one of the Member States by intergovernmental organizations;
• for close relatives – spouses, children, parents and persons exercising the parental authority, grandparents and grandchildren of citizens of Belarus legally residing in the territory of the Member States and of citizens of Belarus residing in the territory of Belarus;
• persons participating in scientific, academic, cultural and artistic activities, including university and other exchange programs;
• pupils, students, post-graduate students and accompanying teachers who undertake trips for the purposes of study or educational training, including in the framework of exchange programs as well as other school related activities;
• participants in international sports events and persons accompanying them in a professional capacity;
• participants in official exchange programs organized by twin cities and other municipal entities;
• representatives of civil society organizations when undertaking trips for the purposes of educational training, seminars, conferences, including in the framework of exchange programs;
• participants in official EU cross-border cooperation programs between Belarus and the Union;
• persons with disabilities and persons accompanying them, if necessary;
• persons who have presented documents proving the necessity of their travel on humanitarian grounds, including to receive urgent medical treatment and the person accompanying such person, or to attend a funeral of a close relative, or to visit a seriously ill close relative;

Visa fee - National visa

In accordance with the Act of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Poland “On consular fees”, the fee of an application processing for issuing of a national visa is 200 euros.

Attention:

In accordance with the Decree of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Poland of December 10, 2024 concerning the reduction of consular fees for citizens of the Republic of Belarus who submit visa applications for a national visa, from January 01, 2025 the fee for the acceptance and processing of the visa application form is 60 euros.

The following persons are exempted from paying the consular fee for the acceptance and consideration of the visa application form for a national visa:

• persons who have submitted documents confirming the necessity of their travel for humanitarian reasons;
• children under the age of 18;
• participants of scientific, educational, cultural and creative activities, including university and other exchange programs;
• students, postgraduate students and their accompanying teachers;
• students, undergraduates, postgraduates and accompanying teachers traveling for study or training purposes, including exchange programs and other school activities;
• participants in international sporting events and accompanying persons for professional purposes;
• participants of official exchange programs organized by sister cities and other municipalities;
• representatives of public organizations traveling for trainings, seminars and conferences, including within the framework of exchange programs;
• participants of official programs of cross-border cooperation between Belarus and the Union;
• persons with disabilities and, if necessary, persons accompanying them;
• persons applying for a visa on the basis of the Pole Card;
• spouse of a citizen/citizen of the Republic of Poland, his/her minor direct descendant or minor direct descendant of his/her spouse, his/her direct ascendant or direct ascendant of his/her spouse, if the ascendant or descendant is dependent on the citizen/citizen of Poland or his/her spouse.

The above exemption does not apply to the payment for the consideration of the appeal (re-consideration of the visa application).

Consular fees may also vary if there are bilateral agreements that regulate this question.

In case of refusal to issue a visa, the consular fee is not refundable.

Documents Required

Common documents required for applying for a Short-Term VISA „C”

1. A completed and signed visa application form (the application may also be completed by a Visa Center employee for an additional fee).
2. A color photograph measuring 3.5 × 4.5 cm. The photograph must be:
• clear, taken against a white background and printed on high quality paper;
• not older than 6 months;
• taken full face, with clearly visible eyes and face from both sides — from the top of the head to the upper part of the shoulders, so that the face occupies 70–80% of the photograph.

Head coverings must be removed for the photograph.

3. A passport issued within the last 10 years, valid for at least 3 months after the intended date of return and containing a minimum of 2 blank pages. If a second valid passport is held, it must also be submitted together with the visa application.
4. Two copies of the passport page containing personal data and the photograph.
5. A medical insurance policy valid in the territory of all Schengen Agreement countries for an amount of at least EUR 30,000, covering all expenses that may arise in connection with compulsory return for medical reasons, the need for urgent medical assistance, emergency hospitalization, or death during stay in the territory of the Schengen Agreement countries. The insurance policy must be valid for the entire period of stay or transit (in the case of applying for a single entry or double entry visa, the medical insurance policy must cover the entire period of the planned stay; in the case of applying for a multiple entry visa, the medical insurance policy must cover the entire duration of the first stay/entry, Article 15 of EU Visa Code No. 810/2009).

Information of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarding insurance companies and insurance policies offered by them that comply with the requirements of the Act of 12 December 2013 “On Foreigners”.

Travel medical insurance may also be purchased directly at the Visa Center or online.

6. Copies of Schengen and national visas issued by the Schengen Member States during the last 3 years.
7. Copies of passport pages containing entry and exit stamps for the period of validity of the last Schengen or national visa.
8. A copy of an identity document confirming residence within the consular district of the institution where the application is submitted.
9. Proof of sufficient financial means:
• an up to date certificate from the place of employment indicating the position held, the date of employment, and the amount of salary received during the last 3 months and/or
• a pension certificate or a certificate of a person receiving benefits, indicating the amount of benefits received and/or
• a certificate confirming receipt of social assistance during the last 3 months and/or
• an up to date bank certificate confirming the account balance or a copy of a valid credit card together with a bank statement showing all transactions during the last 3 months and the available usage limits and/or
• unemployed persons may prove possession of sufficient financial means by submitting a sponsorship letter confirming the availability of financial means to cover travel and stay expenses, as well as documents confirming that the sponsor has sufficient funds (bank statement, certificate of employment with salary indication, proof of ownership of real estate, proof of ownership shares in a business, stock options).

The sponsorship letter must contain:

• full name/company name, address, and contact details of the sponsor;
• a copy of the sponsor’s passport;
• the date of issuance and the sponsor’s signature;
• the degree of relationship or connection between the sponsor and the visa applicant;
• the purpose and duration of the visit;
• a list of expenses covered by the sponsor.

Additionally, the following may be provided:

• a bank statement of the sponsor showing all banking transactions during the last 3 months or
• traveler’s cheques issued in the name of the visa applicant or
• other documents confirming that the person has sufficient financial means for the trip (i.e. proof of property ownership, ownership shares in a business, stock options).
10. A document confirming accommodation (for example, an official invitation or a hotel booking).
11. A return ticket or ticket reservation or other documents confirming the possibility of using means of transport, e.g. a contract with a carrier or a copy of the registration certificate of a private vehicle as well as a driving licence, or documents confirming the right to use a vehicle belonging to other persons or another means of transport, etc.
12. Documents confirming the purpose and conditions of the planned stay in the territory of the Republic of Poland.

Additional documents by category of applicants

Salaried employees

• an up to date certificate from the place of employment indicating the position, the date of employment, and the salary for the last 3 months, as well as the date of termination (if applicable within the last 3 months).

Individual entrepreneurs

• certificate of registration of an individual entrepreneur;
• the latest tax declaration.

Unemployed persons

• pensioners / persons with disabilities, persons receiving benefits – a certificate indicating the amount of the pension/benefit and a pension card / benefit recipient card;
• pupils and students – a pupil/student ID or a certificate from an educational institution;
• other unemployed persons – documents confirming their ties to Belarus (e.g. marriage certificate; birth certificate of a child residing in Belarus; death certificate of close relatives or documents confirming ownership of real estate in Belarus, etc.); as well as copies of pages of the employment record book (original for inspection) containing personal data and information on employment during the last three years, if the applicant worked.

Foreign nationals residing in the Republic of Belarus

• a residence permit in the Republic of Belarus.

Minors

• birth certificate (original and copy)
• notarized consent of the parent/legal guardian who is not present at submission of documents, issued no earlier than one year before the date of submission (not older than one year);
• notarized consent of both parents in the case of travel without them, issued no earlier than one year before the date of submission (not older than one year);
• If both parents/legal guardians are present at the Visa Center when submitting documents for a minor, notarized consent is not required; it is sufficient to complete the consent form in the presence of a Visa Center employee. Click here to download the parental consent form for a child’s visa issuance and travel abroad;
• if the minor has only one parent/legal guardian, an appropriate document must be provided (court decision granting sole custody, death certificate, or other document);
• parents’ passports (original and copy);
• minors traveling with parents/legal guardians must provide copies of the valid visas of the parents/legal guardians.

DOCUMENTS CONFIRMING THE MAIN PURPOSE OF TRAVEL (SCHENGEN VISA)

1. Tourism

• original (for inspection) and a copy of a document confirming a paid hotel booking, guesthouse booking, apartment rental agreement, or another document confirming accommodation in the territory of the Republic of Poland;
• a written description of the purpose of the planned trip.

2. Visiting family and friends

• the document required is the original invitation registered with the voivodeship office. Close relatives (spouses, children, parents) are not required to register the invitation with the voivodeship administration. The invitation must be notarized. In this case, a document confirming the family relationship (birth certificate, marriage certificate, certificate of name change, etc.) and a document confirming the legal stay of the inviting person in the country must be attached.

3. Visas issued for participation in sports events

• the original letter from the inviting organization (indicating the date, name, and duration of the tournament, the name of the club/team invited to participate, along with a list of participants including dates of birth and positions held);
• the original letter (application) from a Belarusian organization confirming that the applicant is a member of a sports delegation invited by the Polish side.

4. Visa issued for the purpose of engaging in business activity

4.1. Individual entrepreneurs traveling for business purposes

• the original written application/invitation from the receiving legal entity or company, organization, office or branch of such legal entity or company, a state authority or local self government authority of a Member State, or the organizing committee of trade and industrial exhibitions, conferences, and symposia held in Poland;
• a licence / registration of the company with the relevant Belarusian authority or the latest tax declaration; a bank statement showing transactions on the entrepreneur’s account;
• a valid contract with a Polish entrepreneur (original);
• a copy of the registration certificate of the entity in the National Court Register (extract valid for 1 month) (KRS).

4.2. Employees traveling for business purposes

• the original written application/invitation for a specific period from the receiving legal entity or company, organization, office or branch, a state authority or local self government authority of a Member State, or the organizing committee of trade and industrial exhibitions, conferences, and symposia held in Poland;
• a valid contract with a Polish entrepreneur (original);
• a copy of the registration certificate in the National Court Register (extract valid for 1 month) (KRS);
• a document confirming the conduct of economic activity in the Republic of Belarus;
• a state registration certificate of the Belarusian organization employing the applicant;
• a certificate from the place of employment confirming the position held and the date of commencement of employment;
• information on salary received during the last 3 months.

4.3. Members of the management board of a company registered in Poland and co owners

• an extract from the National Court Register of Poland (KRS) confirming the conduct of business activity in Poland.

4.4. Visas for drivers engaged in international cargo transport and passenger transport services

• the original letter from the International Road Transport Association in the Republic of Belarus (BAMAP), providing international road transport services, specifying the purpose of travel, the period of stay, the number of entries into the territory of EU Member States during a specified period, and vehicle registration data in the Republic of Belarus; a driving licence; authorization to perform international transport;
• if the application is submitted not via BAMAP - a driving licence; for truck drivers: a document confirming the right to drive a truck, copies of vehicle and trailer or bus registration certificates, a document confirming registration of the enterprise employing the driver, a licence or permit for long distance transport of goods or passengers, a contract between the Belarusian company and its partner company in Poland, a copy of the employment record book (first page and the last page with current employment entry) / an employment contract.

5. Visas issued for the purpose of cultural activity or participation in conferences organized within such activity

• the original invitation from the event organizers (including the list of participants, information on the duration of the program, and information on the party bearing travel related expenses);
• if the invitation states that the inviting party does not provide accommodation, the applicant must submit proof of hotel booking;
• a document from a Belarusian organization or institution sending the person abroad, indicating the purpose and duration of the trip.

6. Visas for participation in official visits

• an official invitation;
• a letter from a Belarusian authority confirming that the applicant is a member of a delegation traveling to Poland to participate in meetings, consultations, negotiations, exchange programs, or events organized by intergovernmental organizations in a Member State.

7. Visas for journalists and accompanying specialized staff

• a document confirming that the applicant is a professional journalist, or a document confirming that the person is a member of specialized staff accompanying a journalist for professional purposes;
• a letter from the employer confirming that the purpose of the trip is related to the performance of official duties;
• the original invitation from the Polish side indicating the purpose of stay.

8. Visas for education, vocational training, delivering lectures, as well as participation in exchange programs and other educational activities

One of the documents confirming the purpose of travel:

• a certificate of participation in training / a vocational course (indicating the type, duration, and the party covering accommodation expenses);
• a document confirming the right to conduct educational activities (invitation to conduct classes, contract with an educational institution);
• an invitation or a document confirming participation in a cultural or educational exchange program.

9. Visas for the purpose of conducting scientific research or research and development works

• an invitation from a Polish higher education institution or research institute to participate in a research project;
• a letter from a Belarusian higher education institution or research institute.

10. Visas for participants in official exchange programs organized by twin cities and other local self government bodies

• a written application prepared by presidents / mayors of twin cities or other local authorities;
• if the invitation states that the inviting party does not provide accommodation, the applicant must submit proof of hotel booking.

11. Visas for the purpose of receiving medical treatment

• an official document issued by the relevant medical institution confirming the necessity of providing medical care to the person, indicating possible need for an accompanying person, and proof of sufficient financial means to cover treatment and stay expenses.

12. Visas for representatives of civil society organizations traveling for purposes of training, participation in seminars, and conferences

• a written application from the receiving organization;
• confirmation that the person represents a civil society organization in the Republic of Belarus;
• if the invitation states that the inviting party does not provide accommodation, the applicant submits proof of hotel booking.

13. Visas for representatives of liberal professions participating in international exhibitions, conferences, symposia, seminars, or similar events

• a written application from the receiving organization confirming the person’s participation in the event;
• if the invitation states that the inviting party does not provide accommodation, the applicant submits proof of hotel booking.

14. Visas for the purpose of visiting cemeteries

• the original document confirming the existence and maintenance of a grave, or a certificate from the Red Cross;
• a document confirming family or other ties between the applicant and the deceased person.

15. Visas for the purpose of attending a funeral

• a document confirming the death;
• documents confirming family or other ties between the applicant and the deceased person.

Important information

A foreigner entering Poland must possess financial means: PLN 300 if the stay does not exceed 4 days, or PLN 75 for each day of stay if the duration exceeds 4 days (or the equivalent amount in foreign currency).

Remember:

The visa application must be submitted at Visa Centers of the consular district corresponding to your place of permanent residence registration. The rules for submitting documents according to territorial jurisdiction may vary depending on the consular district. Detailed information can be obtained by contacting the Call Center support service at +375 17 388 13 37 (from 08:00 to 17:00, Monday to Friday).

The visa application may be submitted no earlier than 6 months before the planned trip.

The consul has the right to invite the applicant for an interview at the consular office but is not obliged to do so.

Submission of falsified documents or provision of false information may result in a ban on entry into the countries of the Schengen Agreement.

A visa does not guarantee entry into the Schengen Area — the final decision is always taken by the competent authorities of the state where the crossing of the Schengen Area border is planned.

The Visa Information System (VIS) is intended, inter alia, for the exchange of data between Member States on visa applications and decisions related thereto. In connection with the achievement of full operational capacity by the system, a stamp confirming the admissibility of the application referred to in Article 20 of Regulation (EC) No. 810/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 July 2009 establishing a Community Visa Code (Visa Code) is not affixed in the travel document of a foreign national applying for a Schengen visa.

Please take a note that Embassy of Republic of Poland / Consulates General also reserve the right to ask for additional supporting documents during the visa application process in progress.

Photo Specifications

• Color, 3.5x4.5 cm, clear, clean and contrasting photo.
• Printed on high quality paper, with a white background.
• Taken not earlier than 6 months before submission.
• The applicant should be clearly identifiable:
• Full-face, with clearly visible eyes and face from both sides, from the top of the head to the top of the shoulders
• Face should cover 70-80% of the photo. No headwear is allowed
• Mouth should be closed, hair should not cover the face
• In case the applicant is wearing glasses – the following criteria is applicable: no shaded glasses, the rims should not cover the eyes, image should not contain flash/light reflections.
• In regards to religious headgear the following guidelines should be followed : chin, forehead and two cheeks should be clearly visible, no additional shadows from the headgear are allowed



3.5 cm x 4.5 cm

Processing Time

The consulate makes a decision on a visa application within 10 days from the date of its submission for citizens of Belarus and other countries with which the EU has signed visa facilitation agreements (in individual cases this period can be extended up to 30 working days). Processing time for other citizens is within 15 calendar days (in individual cases this period can be extended to a maximum of 45 days).

For citizens of countries with which the EU has signed visa facilitation agreements (see https://ec.europa.eu/home-affairs/what-we-do/policies/borders-and-visas/visa-policy_en), the processing period of a visa application may not exceed 10 days.

Download Forms

Please note that the Visa Application Center only accepts forms filled online. Hand-filled forms are not accepted.

If you would like to fill in the application form on-line, please follow the link https://secure2.e-konsulat.gov.pl

Also, you can download and fill the Visa Application form by clicking on one of the links below.

Please print out your filled Visa Application Form and sign it before visiting the Visa Application Center.

You can also use an additional service of the filling in the visa application form at the Visa Center. Our staff will fill the form for you. For more information about our additional services, please follow the link

The form filling service is voluntary and is not related to the general help and information to the applicant which remains free of charge.

	The application form for Schengen VISA in English
	Sample application form for Schengen VISA in English
	The application form for National VISA type D in English
	Sample application form for National Visa type D in English

*We recommend you to download the visa application form, save at your computer and open in Adobe Reader software program version 9.0 and above for the entered text to be displayed properly.

Overview

General Information:

VISA type-D can be provided for people who are planning to stay on the territory of Poland more than 90 days in total (one or more visits) during a year starting from the day of the first entry.

Long-term VISA type-D gives a right:

• to stay On the territory of Poland till the expiration date of VISA;
• to move on the territory of the other countries-members of the Schengen Agreement not more than 90 days during every 180-day period starting from the day of the first entry.

Period of validity of National Visa cannot be more than 1 year

• Applicants may apply for a National Visa in case they are planning to visit Poland with the below aims of trip:
• Performing work based on a registered "Declaration on entrusting work to a foreigner"
• Performing seasonal work for a period not exceeding 9 months in a calendar year
• Performing work other than that specified in Article 60 paragraph 1 points 5 and 5a of the Act of 12 December 2013 on Foreigners (e.g. holders of work permits)
• Performing functions in the management board of a legal entity registered in the Register of Entrepreneurs or a capital company in organization
• First-cycle (bachelor’s), second-cycle (master’s), uniform master’s degree studies, doctoral school, or preparatory course (“Student”)
• conducting scientific research or development work (“Researcher”)
• Internship (“Trainee”)
• Participation in a European Voluntary Service program (“Volunteer”)
• Polish Card (Karta Polaka) holders

Visa Fees

Please note: All fees are to be paid in BYR.

*Citizens of Belarus and other countries applying for a national visa, can be waived from paying the Visa Fee based on respective International Agreements

Service Fee

VFS service charge:

Apart from the visa fee, VFS service is charged in BYN of the equivalent of 18 Euros  according to the National Bank of the Republic of Belarus exchange inclusive of VAT per application.

Visa fee and VFS Service Charge are to be paid at the visa application centrein BYN only

• Visa fee and VFS service charge are non-refundable.

Visa fee - National visa

In accordance with the Order of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Poland of October 01, 2019 amending the Regulation on Consular Fees and the Order of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Poland of October 24, 2019 amending the Regulation on Consular Fees, the consular fee for the acceptance and processing of an application for a national visa is 200 euros.

Attention:

In accordance with the Decree of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Poland of December 10, 2024 concerning the reduction of consular fees for citizens of the Republic of Belarus who submit visa applications for a national visa, from January 01, 2025 the fee for the acceptance and processing of the visa application form is 60 euros.

The following persons are exempted from paying the consular fee for the acceptance and consideration of the visa application form for a national visa:

• persons who have submitted documents confirming the necessity of their travel for humanitarian reasons;
• children under the age of 18;
• participants of scientific, educational, cultural and creative activities, including university and other exchange programs;
• students, postgraduate students and their accompanying teachers;
• students, undergraduates, postgraduates and accompanying teachers traveling for study or training purposes, including exchange programs and other school activities;
• participants in international sporting events and accompanying persons for professional purposes;
• participants of official exchange programs organized by sister cities and other municipalities;
• representatives of public organizations traveling for trainings, seminars and conferences, including within the framework of exchange programs;
• participants of official programs of cross-border cooperation between Belarus and the Union;
• persons with disabilities and, if necessary, persons accompanying them;
• persons applying for a visa on the basis of the Pole Card;
• spouse of a citizen/citizen of the Republic of Poland, his/her minor direct descendant or minor direct descendant of his/her spouse, his/her direct ascendant or direct ascendant of his/her spouse, if the ascendant or descendant is dependent on the citizen/citizen of Poland or his/her spouse.

Visa fee - Schengen visa

Legal grounds:

The standard visa fee is 90 Euro in line with art. 16 of the European Parliament and Council (EU) Regulations No. 810/2009 of 13 July 2009 that established the Community Visa Code (Visa Code) (Journal of Law L 243 of 15 September 2009, art. 1).

Separate rules for issuing visas and fee payments for short-term visas (Schengen) are established for the citizens of the countries that have entered into the agreement with the European Community on the facilitation of visa issue procedure:

• Azerbaijan, effective from 01 September 2014
• Albania, valid from 01 January 2008
• Armenia, valid from 01 January 2014
• Belarus, valid from 01 July 2020
• Bosnia and Herzegovina, valid from 01 January 2008
• North Macedonia, valid from 01 January 2008.
• Georgia, valid from 01 March 2011
• Cape Verde, effective from 01 December 2014
• People’s Republic of China, visa facilitation agreement for tourist groups (ADS Agreement 2004)
• Moldova, valid from 01 July 2013
• Serbia, valid from 01 January 2008
• Ukraine, valid from 01 July 2013 r.

Montenegro, valid from 01 January 2008

Categories of Belarus Citizens waived for Schengen visa fee payment based on the Visa Facilitation Agreement signed before Belarus and EU:

• children under 12 years old;
• citizens of the Republic of Belarus aged from 12 to 18 years who submit their visa applications at the consular departments of the Republic of Poland or visa centers in the territory of the Republic of Belarus;
• for members of national and regional Governments and Parliaments, Constitutional Courts and Supreme Courts, if they are not exempted from the visa requirement by this Agreement;
• for members of official delegations, including permanent members of official delegations, who, following an official invitation addressed to Belarus, shall participate in official meetings, consultations, negotiations or exchange programs, as well as in events held in the territory of one of the Member States by intergovernmental organizations;
• for close relatives – spouses, children, parents and persons exercising the parental authority, grandparents and grandchildren of citizens of Belarus legally residing in the territory of the Member States and of citizens of Belarus residing in the territory of Belarus;
• persons participating in scientific, academic, cultural and artistic activities, including university and other exchange programs;
• pupils, students, post-graduate students and accompanying teachers who undertake trips for the purposes of study or educational training, including in the framework of exchange programs as well as other school related activities;
• participants in international sports events and persons accompanying them in a professional capacity;
• participants in official exchange programs organized by twin cities and other municipal entities;
• representatives of civil society organizations when undertaking trips for the purposes of educational training, seminars, conferences, including in the framework of exchange programs;
• participants in official EU cross-border cooperation programs between Belarus and the Union;
• persons with disabilities and persons accompanying them, if necessary;
• persons who have presented documents proving the necessity of their travel on humanitarian grounds, including to receive urgent medical treatment and the person accompanying such person, or to attend a funeral of a close relative, or to visit a seriously ill close relative;

The above exemption does not apply to the payment for the consideration of the appeal (re-consideration of the visa application).

Consular fees may also vary if there are bilateral agreements that regulate this question.

In case of refusal to issue a visa, the consular fee is not refundable.

Documents Required

Travel insurance is mandatory for all Schengen countries. If you have not purchased, please click here

Common documents required for applying for a Short-Term VISA „D”

• A Filled and Signed Visa Application Form;
• Color photograph 3.5x4.5 as per the requirements;
• Passport issued within the last 10 years that will be valid not less than 3 months after the planned date of return from the Schengen Zone. The passport has to have at least 2 empty pages dedicated to Visas;
• 2 copies of the passport pages containing the personal information;
• Medical Insurance. A person applying for a national visa shall personally submit a document confirming possession of travel medical insurance referred to in Article 25(1)(2)(a), or a document confirming possession of health insurance within the meaning of the Act of 27 August 2004 on publicly funded health care services. The travel medical insurance, with a coverage amount of no less than EUR 30,000, must be valid for the duration of the planned stay of the foreigner on the territory of the Republic of Poland, cover all expenses that may arise during the stay on this territory due to the necessity of return travel for medical reasons, urgent medical assistance, emergency hospital treatment, or death, where the insurer undertakes to cover the costs of health services provided to the insured directly to the entity providing such services, based on an invoice issued by that entity. More information: https://www.gov.pl/web/dyplomacja/wizy → under the tab: Information from the Minister of Foreign Affairs on insurers and the insurance policies they offer that meet the requirements referred to in Article 25(1)(2)(a) and Article 25(1b) of the Act of 12 December 2013 on Foreigners.;
• A document confirming residence within the consular district of the office where you are applying for the visa;
• Document confirming accommodation (e.g., an official invitation or hotel reservation);
• One of the below documents, proving sufficient funds during the stay in the Schengen Countries:
  • A bank statement showing the current account balance;
  • A valid Credit Card with a receipt showing available funds;
  • A letter from the Employer, showing the salary received during the past 3 months
  • A certificate showing the pension/unemployment benefit amount or Pensioner/Disability certificate
• A Belarus Republic residence permit (For foreign citizens, residing in Belarus)

List of documents to be provided by Minor Applicants:

• A notary consent from a parent who has not signed the application form, since the presence of signature of only one parent is enough (it means that presence of signatures from both parents is not an exempt from providing the notary consent);
• A birth Certificate (original and copy)
• Passports (copies) of parents/legal guardians
• A notarized consent for minor travelling abroad from a parent/legal guardian who has not signed the application form (original and copy). Before submitting please clarify the requirements for the minor travel consent of a minor by calling the Call Center. In case both parents/legal guardians are present during the submission of a minor’s visa application form, a notarized consent is not required. To download a minor travel consent form please click here.
• If a minor is travelling alone without parents/legal guardians (for example, as a member of a school group) – a notarized consent from both parents/legal guardians allowing the minor to leave Belarus. If a minor applicant has only one parent/legal guardian, then a respective document is to be provided (court statement establishing the parent to be the single guardian, certificate of death or other document)
• For minors travelling with parents/legal guardians copies of parents’/legal guardians’ valid visas should be provided

DOCUMENTS CONFIRMING THE MAIN PURPOSE OF TRAVEL FOR APPLICANTS FOR A NATIONAL VISA

Performing work based on a registered "Declaration on entrusting work to a foreigner"

• A declaration on entrusting work to a foreigner registered in the relevant register.

Note:

1. In the case of work visas, insurance for all days of stay is required.
2. Work visas for foreigners are issued or refused by the consul competent for the country of the foreigner’s permanent residence. In the case of a foreigner legally residing in another Member State of the European Union, a Member State of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) – party to the Agreement on the European Economic Area, or the Swiss Confederation – the consul whose office is located in that state may issue the visa, provided that the foreigner justifies submitting the application outside the country of permanent residence.
3. A visa based on the declaration is issued only to the person named in the document.

Performing seasonal work for a period not exceeding 9 months in a calendar year

(as referred to in Article 88 paragraph 2 of the Act of 20 April 2004 on Employment Promotion and Labour Market Institutions)

• Certificate of registration of the application for a seasonal work permit, as referred to in Article 88p paragraph 1 point 2 of the same Act.

Note:

1. In the case of work visas, insurance for all days of stay is required.
2. Work visas for foreigners are issued or refused by the consul competent for the country of the foreigner’s permanent residence, or by the consul located in another EU/EFTA country if the applicant justifies applying outside the country of residence.
3. A visa based on such a certificate is issued only to the person named in it.

Performing work other than that specified in Article 60 paragraph 1 points 5 and 5a of the Act of 12 December 2013 on Foreigners (e.g. holders of work permits)

• Original and copy of the work permit within the meaning of Article 2 paragraph 1 point 43a of the Act of 20 April 2004 on Employment Promotion and Labour Market Institutions, unless the permit is not required.

Note:

1. Insurance for all days of stay is required.
2. Work visas are issued or refused by the consul competent for the applicant’s country of residence (or an EU/EFTA country if justified).
3. The visa is issued only to the person named in the document confirming the right to work.

Performing functions in the management board of a legal entity registered in the Register of Entrepreneurs or a capital company in organization

• Copy of the certificate of registration in the National Court Register (KRS).

Only persons listed in the Register may apply for a visa based on such registration.

Visa for the purpose of first-cycle (bachelor’s), second-cycle (master’s), uniform master’s degree studies, doctoral school, or preparatory course (“Student”)

A foreigner applying for a national visa with the annotation “student” must present:

1. Certificate of admission or continuation of studies.
2. Proof of payment if the studies are paid.
3. Document confirming sufficient financial means to cover living expenses, return travel, and study costs.
4. Proof of health or travel medical insurance.

For first-cycle (bachelor’s) studies:

• Administrative decision recognizing the secondary school certificate, or a letter from NAWA confirming that the certificate entitles the holder to pursue higher education in Poland.
• Certificate of language proficiency at level B2 or higher.

Only full-time students or those attending preparatory courses are eligible for a “student” visa.

The consul assesses whether the applicant’s language proficiency is sufficient to study in the language of instruction.

If the application is incomplete, missing documents may be submitted within 7 days of filing.

Processing time: up to 30 days.

Financial requirements:

A foreigner must prove sufficient funds for the entire visa period, covering:

1. Return travel:
   • PLN 200 – if coming from a neighboring country,
   • PLN 500 – if coming from an EU/EFTA country not bordering Poland,
   • PLN 2500 – if coming from another country.
2. Accommodation costs (e.g. dormitory confirmation, rental agreement).
3. Living expenses: PLN 701/month (or PLN 528/month if accompanied by family).

Documents proving sufficient funds:

1. Traveler’s cheque;
2. Bank confirmation of credit card limit;
3. Bank statement from a Polish bank or credit union;
4. Confirmation of national or foreign scholarship;
5. Certificate of employment and earnings.

Documents under points 3–5 may be issued to another person (e.g. sponsor). In such cases, a notarized sponsorship letter must be attached (e.g. from parents or a foundation covering the student’s expenses).

If the proof of financial means is a certificate of employment and income, this may relate to the sponsor, provided that a sponsorship letter is attached.

Visa for conducting scientific research or development work (“Researcher”)

The applicant must present:

• An agreement with a Polish scientific institution specifying:
  1. Title or purpose of the research/development work,
  2. Obligations of both the researcher and institution,
  3. Start and end dates,
  4. Remuneration and working conditions,
  5. Any research to be conducted in other EU countries.

Also required:

• Proof of sufficient financial means for living and return costs;
• Written declaration from the institution to reimburse any state expenses for forced return if the foreigner stays illegally.

Missing documents may be submitted within 14 days.

Processing time: up to 60 days.

Visa for internship (“Trainee”)

Required documents:

1. Proof of graduation within the past 2 years or confirmation of ongoing higher education outside the EU.
2. Proof of accommodation in Poland.
3. Proof of sufficient financial means to cover living, return travel, and internship costs.
4. Written statement from the host organization covering potential deportation-related costs.
5. Written internship agreement detailing:
   • Educational purpose and structure,
   • Duration,
   • Supervision conditions and location,
   • Working hours,
   • Financial arrangements and insurance,
   • Evaluation method,
   • Confirmation of language proficiency at the required level.

The internship must correspond to the applicant’s field and level of study.

Missing documents may be submitted within 14 days.

Processing time: up to 60 days.

Visa for participation in a European Voluntary Service program (“Volunteer”)

Required documents:

1. Proof of accommodation in Poland.
2. Proof of sufficient financial means for living and return travel.
3. Written agreement with the host organization specifying:
   • Description and duration of the voluntary service,
   • Working conditions,
   • Working hours,
   • Funds for living and accommodation,
   • Pocket money amount,
   • Required training.

Missing documents may be submitted within 14 days.

Processing time: up to 60 days.

Visa based on the “Polish Card” (Karta Polaka)

• Application form.

Applications based on the Polish Card can only be for a national visa.

Please take a note that Embassy / Consulates General of Republic of Poland also reserve the right to request additional supporting documents during the visa application process in progress.

Photo Specifications

• Color, 3.5x4.5 cm, clear, clean and contrasting photo.
• Printed on high quality paper, with a white background.
• Taken not earlier than 6 months before submission.
• The applicant should be clearly identifiable:
• Full-face, with clearly visible eyes and face from both sides, from the top of the head to the top of the shoulders
• Face should cover 70-80% of the photo. No headwear is allowed
• Mouth should be closed, hair should not cover the face
• In case the applicant is wearing glasses – the following criteria is applicable: no shaded glasses, the rims should not cover the eyes, image should not contain flash/light reflections.
• In regards to religious headgear the following guidelines should be followed : chin, forehead and two cheeks should be clearly visible, no additional shadows from the headgear are allowed



3.5 cm x 4.5 cm

Processing Time

The consulate makes a decision on a visa application within 15 calendar days from the date of its submission. In individual cases this period can be extended to 30.

Download Forms

Please note that the Visa Application Center only accepts forms filled online (in printed form). Hand-filled forms are not accepted.

You may use the additional service of having your visa application form filled out at the Visa Center. Our staff will complete the form for you. For more information about our additional services, please follow the link.

To complete the national visa application form online, please follow the link to our online module.

or fill out the application form on the website of the respective consular office.

Also, you can download and fill the Visa Application form by clicking on one of the links below.

Please print out your filled Visa Application Form and sign it before visiting the Visa Application Center.

The form filling service is voluntary and is not related to the general help and information to the applicant which remains free of charge.

	The application form for National VISA type D in English
	Sample application form for National Visa type D in English

*We recommend you to download the visa application form, save at your computer and open in Adobe Reader software program version 9.0 and above for the entered text to be displayed properly.