The Pole’s Card (Karta Polaka) is a unique document that attracts the interest of many people worldwide, especially those who feel connected to Poland due to their roots. It is not equivalent to citizenship, but it serves as official confirmation of belonging to the Polish Nation. Who is the Pole’s Card intended for, and what specific privileges come with holding it? We explain the key issues.
What is the Pole’s Card and what is its purpose?
The Pole’s Card was introduced by an Act in 2007. Its main purpose is to strengthen the ties of people of Polish origin or those identifying with Polishness who live outside Poland (historically, mainly in the countries formed after the collapse of the USSR, but currently, the regulations more broadly cover people of Polish origin worldwide). The Card aims to facilitate these individuals’ contacts with their ancestors’ homeland and grant them certain rights within Poland, without conferring Polish citizenship or the right of permanent residence (although it can lead to them).
Who can apply for the Pole’s Card? Key criteria
To obtain the Pole’s Card, several conditions specified in the Act must be met collectively. The most important ones are:
- Demonstrating connection with Polishness: The applicant must prove their belonging to the Polish Nation through:
- Polish descent: At least one parent or grandparent, or two great-grandparents were of Polish nationality. This must be documented (e.g., civil status records, ancestors’ identity documents, certificates).
- Alternatively (less common): Active involvement in activities for the benefit of the Polish language and culture or the Polish national minority for at least the last 3 years, confirmed by a certificate from a Polish diaspora organization.
- Knowledge of the Polish language: The applicant must demonstrate at least a basic knowledge of the Polish language, which they consider their native language. Knowledge and cultivation of Polish traditions and customs are also required. This knowledge is verified during an interview with the Polish consul.
- Declaration of belonging to the Polish Nation: A written declaration must be submitted before the consul.
- No Polish citizenship or permanent residence permit in Poland: The Card is intended for foreigners.
- Appropriate citizenship or status: Originally, the Act focused on citizens of specific former USSR countries. Currently, a foreigner who does not hold Polish citizenship or a permanent residence permit in Poland and meets the other conditions, especially those regarding origin and language, can apply for the Card.
Main benefits of holding the Pole’s Card
Holding the Pole’s Card comes with a range of specific facilities and privileges within Poland:
- Exemption from the national visa fee: The Cardholder is exempt from the fee for accepting and processing an application for a Polish national visa (entitling to work or study).
- Easier access to the labor market: The ability to undertake work in Poland without the need to obtain a work permit.
- Conducting business activity: The right to establish and run a business on the same terms as Polish citizens.
- Access to free education: The possibility of using the free education system (primary, secondary, post-secondary schools) and studying at universities on the terms applicable to Polish citizens (including applying for scholarships).
- Healthcare in emergencies: The right to use healthcare services in situations of sudden health or life threats, under the rules defined for Polish citizens.
- Discounts on transport: A 37% discount on rail travel within Poland (personal, fast, express trains).
- Free entry to museums: The possibility of free admission to selected state museums in Poland.
- Financial aid priority: Priority in applying for financial resources from the state budget or local governments intended to support Poles abroad.
- Cash benefit after settling in Poland: The possibility of applying for a cash benefit to partially cover the costs of settlement and maintenance for Pole’s Card holders who have applied for permanent residence.
- Facilitated path to permanent residence and citizenship: A holder of the Pole’s Card can apply for a permanent residence permit in Poland free of charge. After one year of holding a permanent residence permit on this basis, they can apply for recognition as a Polish citizen.
The story of Mr. Igor: how the Pole’s Card opened doors to Poland
Mr. Igor comes from Ukraine, and his grandparents were Poles. He heard Polish spoken at home since childhood and knew Polish traditions. After finishing high school, he decided to apply for the Pole’s Card. After passing the interview with the consul and presenting his grandparents’ documents, he received the Card. Thanks to it, he could easily come to Poland for studies without paying for a visa. The Pole’s Card also allowed him to legally take up part-time work without a permit, which made it easier for him to support himself during his studies. After a few years, with the Pole’s Card in hand, he applied for permanent residence, and a year later – for Polish citizenship. The Card was the key for him that opened the door to a new life in the land of his ancestors.
The Pole’s Card is not citizenship – An important distinction
It should be remembered that the Pole’s Card is not the same as Polish citizenship. The Cardholder remains a citizen of their own country. It does not grant the right to vote in Poland or to hold a Polish passport. However, it is an important document confirming ties with Poland and offering specific benefits.
How can we help with matters related to the Pole’s Card and further steps?
Although the process of applying for the Pole’s Card itself takes place mainly in Polish consulates, questions often arise regarding the interpretation of regulations, compiling documents confirming origin, or preparing for the interview with the consul. More importantly, the Pole’s Card is often the first step on the path to permanently settling in Poland and obtaining citizenship.
Our law firm offers support in the following areas:
- Analysis of the legal situation and eligibility for the Pole’s Card.
- Assistance in searching for and interpreting archival documents confirming Polish origin.
- Advice on further steps after obtaining the Pole’s Card, particularly in the procedures for obtaining a permanent residence permit and Polish citizenship.
If you are considering applying for the Pole’s Card or you are its holder and planning further legal steps in Poland, contact us. We will help you understand your rights and possibilities.
(Please remember that the information contained in this article is general in nature and does not constitute legal advice. Each case should be analyzed individually.)
