Polish citizenship
Polish citizenship can be obtained, among other ways, by being granted citizenship (a decision of the President of Poland) or by being recognised as a citizen (a decision of the voivode). Each path has different requirements.
Updated: 10.2026
Recognition as a Polish citizen
The decision is made by the voivode. This path is for people who meet the conditions set by law — usually several years of legal stay in Poland on a permanent residence permit or EU long-term resident status, a stable source of income, a legal title to housing and knowledge of Polish confirmed by a certificate (at least B1).
Granting by the President
The President of Poland may grant citizenship to a foreigner living in Poland on a permanent residence permit. The law does not set detailed conditions, and the procedure can be long. You apply through the voivode or a consul.
Planned changes
The rules on Polish citizenship are being changed — for example, the required periods of stay may change. Before you prepare your application, check the current rules. We show new draft laws and laws in the "Law changes" section.
Check the official source
The information on this website is general and is not legal advice. The law changes often — before you apply, check the current rules at the official source or ask a lawyer.