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How to get a Poland Student Visa in 2023-24?
Poland is a country with a rich historical background and can be the perfect choice for studying abroad. With over 450 higher education institutions offering a wide range of courses, students from more than 150 countries have chosen Poland as their study destination. The universities in Poland follow the Bologna system, which is also followed by other European countries. When planning to study abroad in Poland, it is essential to understand and follow the process of applying for a student visa in Poland. This blog provides insights into the requirements, fees, and the step-by-step process to obtain a study visa in Poland.
Poland Student Visa
A Poland study visa, also known as a Poland student visa, is a legal requirement for international students who wish to pursue their education in Poland. This visa allows you to stay in Poland for the duration of your studies. If you are not a citizen of an EU country, you will require a student visa to study in Poland as an international student. However, if you come from an EU member state, you will only need a valid ID and travel documents, and you must register your residency with the Voivodeship (Provincial) Office to study in Poland. For all other international students, a D type visa is necessary, allowing you to stay and study in Poland for one year. If you wish to extend your stay, you must apply for a temporary residence permit before your visa expires.
Types of Poland Study Visa
You can apply for a short-term visa or a long-term visa to study in Poland. Here are the details of the two types of visas:
1. Short-Term Visa (Type C)
The short-term visa for studying in Poland is called the Uniform Schengen Visa. With this visa, you can stay in Poland or any other Schengen country for up to 90 days. However, this stay can be extended to over 180 days. International students can take advantage of this short-term visa (Type C) if they are visiting Poland for a specific sports, cultural, or academic event.
2. Long-Term Visa (Type D)
If you plan to stay in Poland for more than 90 days, you will need a long-term visa, also known as the National visa for Poland. With this visa, you can stay in Poland for up to one year, and you can also visit other Schengen member states for 90 days within a 180-day period. Most international students who are enrolled in a full-time Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD program and plan to stay in Poland for more than 90 days can apply for a long-term visa. Once you have the long-term visa, you will need to apply for a residence permit in Poland. The initial residence permit can be granted for one year, matching the duration of your program. However, you may need to apply for an extension once this permit expires.
Type of Poland Visa for different study programs
|
Study Programs |
Exchange & mobility program/Cultural/Sports event |
Internship |
Full-time Graduate or post-graduate programs (Bachelor or Masters or PhD or Research) |
Exchange & Mobility program, University single course, Vocational training, Academic short course, Apprenticeship |
|
Duration of Stay |
Less than Poland 90 days |
If More than 90 days |
More than 90 days |
If More than 90 days |
|
Types of Poland Student Visa |
Short-term Visa (Visa C) |
Poland Long-term visa (Visa D) |
Poland Long-term visa (Visa D) |
Poland Long-term visa (Visa D) |
Poland Student Visa Requirements
The required documents for a Poland visa application process are:
Two Poland visa application forms: You will need to fill out two Poland visa application forms on the E-Konsulat website.
Two passport-sized photos of yourself: Additionally, you must provide two passport-sized photos that adhere to the Poland visa photo guidelines.
Your passport: Your passport must be valid for at least three months after your planned return date, and you should include extra copies of your passport pages.
Health insurance: It is important to have health insurance that covers you for the initial part of your trip until you can arrange long-term student health insurance in Poland.
Proof of accommodation: You must also provide proof of accommodation, such as a dormitory or student apartment.
Proof of sufficient funds: It is necessary to show evidence of sufficient funds to support your stay in Poland.
A university acceptance letter: You will need an official acceptance letter from the Polish university you have applied to, which should include your name, type of study, and duration of your studies.
An Invitation letter: If you are unable to secure a dormitory contract or rental agreement, you can apply for your visa with an invitation letter written by a guarantor who will support your stay in Poland during your studies.
Document proving your English or Polish language proficiency level: You must prove your English or Polish language proficiency level to begin your studies at a Polish university. This can be done by submitting a diploma or academic certificate that is no older than three years.
Scholarship document (if applicable): If you have obtained a scholarship for your studies in Poland, providing proof of the scholarship will assist with your financial insurance. The scholarship must cover a minimum of €631 per month to be considered valid for your visa application.
Proof of your relationship status: If you are married, you must submit your marriage certificate as proof of your relationship status.
Proof of your flight date and time: Evidence of your flight's date and time can be provided by submitting your flight ticket.
Paid visa fee receipt: To validate your long-stay visa fee payment, you will receive a receipt upon completion of the payment process.
Poland Student Visa Fees for Indians
The visa application fees for Indian students applying for a Poland student visa may vary and should be verified with the Polish embassy or consulate in India.
- Fees typically cover visa processing and administrative costs. A Polish student visa application will cost €70 and is non-refundable.
- It can be paid by cash or card at the VFS Global centre. VFS Global also applies their own service charges for application processing.
- There is a INR 986 fee when booking your appointment. Here is what you can expect.
- The Indian Rupee amount given below is per the conversion rate applied by VFS Global for the application fee.
|
Application Fee |
INR 7,173 |
|
VFS Service Charge |
INR 986 |
|
Total |
INR 8,159 |
Poland Student Visa Application Process
Confirm your university place: Before applying for a Poland student visa, you need to have accepted an offer from a university in Poland and provide proof of your place.
Find your nearest Polish consulate: To process your Poland student visa application, you will have to visit a Polish embassy or consulate in your home country. You can locate your nearest Polish consulate on their website.
Set a visa appointment with the consulate: It is likely that you will need to register online through the consulate's website before proceeding.
Prepare your documents: See above for a full list of the documents you’ll need. Make sure to check the specific requirements with the consulate as they may vary.
Attend your appointment and submit your documents: Prepare all the necessary documents, including a printed and signed application form, and pay the Poland student visa fee. You should receive a decision within two to three weeks.
Work in Poland with a student visa
Certainly! In Poland, it is possible to work with a student visa as long as you possess a residence permit. While pursuing your studies, you are allowed to work part-time for up to 20 hours per week. During breaks, you have the flexibility to work full-time. However, it is important to prioritise your studies over work as it plays a vital role in maintaining your student visa. Failing exams or not completing each semester on time could potentially impact the renewal of your visa. Getting a part-time job in Poland as a student has become quite convenient thanks to the recent regulations implemented by the Polish Government. If you are an international student, all you need is a temporary residence permit to be able to find work in Poland.
Conclusion
Obtaining a Poland Student Visa is a crucial step in pursuing your educational goals in this beautiful European country. Ensure you meet all the requirements and follow the application process carefully to enhance your chances of success. I hope this blog may have helped you with your query.
Who are we!
The Career Clinic is dedicated to assisting you in obtaining a Poland student Visa to study in Poland. Our experienced team provides guidance and support throughout the visa application process, ensuring a smooth transition to your study abroad journey in Poland. Connect with us for the next Intake of 2024!
Frequently Asked Questions
No, EU/EEA students do not need a Poland study visa. Poland allows free movement of EU/EEA citizens for study purposes. However, you may be required to register your stay with local authorities after arriving in Poland, but this is not the same as a visa. Always check the latest immigration rules and requirements, as they can change over time.
Your Poland student visa may take up to 15 days to process after submitting your application. Once you have the university acceptance letter, you are advised to apply for your Poland student visa as soon as possible but not earlier than three months before your enrollment date. If by any chance you apply during the summer season, the processing time for your student visa application may be extended.
Yes, you can work in Poland with a student visa provided that you have a residence permit. You can work part-time during your studies (20 hours a week) and full-time during breaks. However, you are advised to focus more on your studies than on work since it is crucial for your student visa. If you do not pass your exams and finish each semester in time, it could affect the renewal of your visa.
Depending on where you live, you can apply for a Poland visa at one of the following:
- The Polish embassy or consulate in your country.
- The Polish embassy or consulate in a neighbouring country.
- The embassy or consulate of another Schengen country, to which Poland has outsourced visa submissions.
- A private visa application center or agency that the Polish embassy has outsourced visa submission services.
If your Poland student visa application is rejected, you should first review the rejection letter to understand the specific reasons for the denial. You can then consider reapplying, addressing the issues raised, and providing any missing documents or information. Alternatively, you may appeal the decision if you believe it was unjust. Seek assistance from your educational institution or a legal advisor to navigate the process effectively.
