We support our clients in obtaining Polish citizenship through various legal pathways, including by operation of law, grant, or restoration. Our services encompass analyzing the client’s situation, preparing and submitting the necessary applications, compiling required documents, and representing the client before the relevant authorities.
According to the current regulations, there are several ways to acquire Polish citizenship, including by operation of law, grant, recognition, or restoration of Polish citizenship.
By operation of law
Under this route, only minors (up to 18 years of age or marriage) can acquire citizenship. There are two situations involved. The first is the “principle of jus sanguinis,” where one of the parents holds Polish citizenship at the time of the child’s birth. The second is known as the “principle of jus soli” – a child born in Poland whose parents are unknown, stateless, or have undefined citizenship, acquires citizenship. A similar provision applies to a minor found on the territory of the Republic of Poland when their parents are unknown. A foreign minor who is fully adopted before turning 16 by Polish citizens acquires citizenship from the date of birth.
Grant of citizenship
The President of the Republic of Poland grants citizenship when they receive an application from a foreigner (or from the legal representatives, such as parents, in the case of a minor). The application must contain the foreigner’s personal information, address of residence, information about parents (if they held Polish citizenship), details of income sources, proficiency in the Polish language, etc. Additionally, the application must be accompanied by supporting documents confirming the accuracy of the information provided, as well as appropriate photographs. The application is submitted to the relevant Voivode or Consul in person or by mail. A certified official signature is required. The President grants Polish citizenship, but they may also refuse to do so. There are no specific timelines for the application review, and the President’s decision is not subject to appeal.
Restoration of citizenship
This procedure applies to individuals who lost Polish citizenship before January 1, 1999. It involves submitting the appropriate application to the Minister of Internal Affairs by the foreigner. The application must include basic personal data, residential address, curriculum vitae, the last place of residence in Poland before the loss of citizenship, and a declaration of past citizenship possession. The application should be accompanied by documents confirming identity, loss of citizenship, and a photograph (with detailed specifications according to the regulations). The decision should be issued promptly, and there is a possibility to appeal within 14 days.
According to the law, restoration of citizenship does not apply to individuals who may pose a threat to the Polish state or those who voluntarily served in the armed forces or held a public office in Axis Powers during World War II, or acted to the detriment of Poland.
Our law firm provides assistance to foreigners in obtaining Polish citizenship through each of the described pathways. We determine the appropriate method based on individual circumstances, prepare the necessary documents, and handle the entire process.
For further details, please feel free to contact us.