Study in Poland: Student Visas & Permits

Student visas and permits can be easier for some depending on where they're from. Find out details below!

Jun 17, 2025

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.

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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 to stay 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 over 3 months, you must 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 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're eligible to apply for a student visa in Poland and travel within Europe. 

For international students, there are 2 types of visas available:

  • Visa C: A short-term Schengen visa allows the holder to stay in Schengen territory for up to 90 days in a 180-day 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-day period. If you need to stay longer in Poland for your studies, you must apply for a Temporary Residence Permit/Card. The temporary residence card will allow you to cross the Polish border as often as you wish. At first, it's 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

Student visa applications must be registered through e-consulate (but you must book an appointment).

The documents you need to gather to apply for a Polish student visa are:

  • A fully completed and signed visa application form
  • Valid passport (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
  • Medical insurance covering no less than €30,000
  • Evidence of sufficient funds to support you throughout your studies. (Includes the cost of returning home (minimum 2500 PLN) as well as 701 PLN per month for living expenses)
  • Proof of your residence/student accommodation in Poland. 
  • Transport documentation, such as your flight ticket to Poland.
  • Proof of having paid the visa fee
  • Documents for minors:
    • Birth certificate
    • Visa application form signed by both parents.
    • If applicable, proof that one parent has full custody
    • Certified copies of both parent's ID or passports
    • Parental authorization if the minor is traveling alone, signed by both parents/guardians.

Learn more about studying in Poland:

Study in Poland - Overview

Over 107,000 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!

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