Student Visas in Poland
The student visa in Poland is something you need to pay special attention to, depending on your citizenship status. We have gathered all the relevant information below about student visas in Poland. For more detailed information and queries, navigate through the official website of the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Think Poland student services.
Student Visa in Poland: EU/EEA/EFTA Nationals
If you are a European national we have good news for you! The only thing you will need for staying in Poland for your studies is a valid travel document, either a passport or an identity card from your country of origin. There are no formal requirements if you stay for less than 90 days. However, since your studies will last more than three months, you will just need to register your residence in Poland in one of the country’s 16 administrative divisions, the Voivodeships.
Student Visa in Poland: Non-EU/EEA/EFTA Nationals
If you are a non European citizen you will need a visa in order to enter and stay in Poland. However, citizens from particular countries are exempt from visa requirements when entering the Schengen Area. Poland is a member of the Schengen Area. As a result, you are eligible to apply for a student visa in Poland and travel within Europe.
For international students, there are two types of visas available:
- Visa C: A short-term Schengen visa allowing the holder to stay in the Schengen territory for up to 90 days in 180 days period.
- Visa D: A long-term national visa issued for up to one year allowing travel around the Schengen area for up to 90 days in a 180 days period. If you need to stay longer in Poland for your studies, then you will need to apply for the Temporary Residence Permit/Card. The temporary residence card will allow you to cross the Polish border as many times as you wish. At first, it is issued for a period of 15 months. It can be renewed for periods of up to 3 years but for no longer than the remainder of your studies. Keep in mind that you need to apply for a Temporary Stay Card 45 days before your visa expires
Polish Student Visa: Necessary Documents
Visit your local Polish Embassy or Consulate after booking an appointment in order to issue your student visa. The documents you need to gather in order to apply for a Polish student visa are:
- A fully completed and signed visa application form.
- Valid passport (must be valid for three months after your planned departure from Poland).
- Passport-size photographs.
- The letter of acceptance from your Polish university.
- Your curriculum vitae and a motivation letter.
- Previous school/university certificates and diplomas.
- Proof of your English or Polish language proficiency.
- A health insurance that will cover you during your studies.
- Evidence of sufficient funds to support you throughout your studies. This can be proven via official bank statements.
- Proof of your residence/student accommodation in Poland.
- Transport documentation like for instance your flight ticket to Poland.
Learn more about education in Poland:
Study in Poland - Overview
Over 45,000 international students choose Poland as their study abroad destination every year. Click here to learn why.
Education System
Want to learn about how the higher education system works in Poland? Both public and private universities follow the objectives and the standards set by the Bologna process.
Housing & Living Costs
Housing and cost of living in Poland are relatively cheap, especially when compared with other countries in Europe
Tuition Fees & Scholarships
Tuition fees for degree programs in Poland vary but education for international students is still far lower than in many other European countries.
Language & Culture
Poland is a country rich in history and culture. Find out more about what the country offers in terms of language, culture, and more!
Application Process
Entry requirements in Poland vary from university to university. Here you can find more information about the application process for both EU and non-EU citizens.
Programs
Ready to look at education in Poland? Use our search engine to find and compare top programs in Poland today!
Author
The Keystone Team is comprised of experienced educators and advisors dedicated to providing valuable resources and advice to students all over the world.