Biznes Fakty
It is going to be harder for foreigners to get a Polish passport
The duration of continuous residence in Poland for foreigners seeking Polish citizenship is proposed to be increased to ten years, according to an amendment suggested by the Law and Justice party, as reported by „Rzeczpospolita”. Presently, this duration is three years. The current administration also intends to develop changes, but will not introduce any proposals until the autumn.
As highlighted by the daily, Poland currently has some of the most permissive regulations regarding the acquisition of citizenship.
What are the methods for a foreigner to acquire citizenship in Poland?
Polish citizenship can be obtained in two manners. The first is through recognition as a Polish citizen, granted by the voivode. The second method involves the President of the Republic of Poland granting citizenship, which has no restrictions. Thus, citizenship can be granted to a foreigner who does not reside in Poland at all.
„A foreigner only needs to reside in Poland for three years to be eligible to apply for a Polish passport successfully. In light of the increasing immigration, particularly from Ukraine, PiS aims to adopt similar approaches as other European nations and tighten requirements for foreigners,” the report states. „This involves extending the minimum duration of continuous residence in Poland from three to ten years,” it elaborates.
Government’s proposed changes
According to „Rz”, the Ministry of Interior and Administration plans to develop new criteria for Polish citizenship. They will commence this work after the presidential elections. – We intend to consult with the new president, who has the prerogative to grant citizenship – explains Prof. Maciej Duszczyk, Deputy Minister of Interior, to „Rz”.
On Wednesday, the Sejm is set to vote on a government proposal concerning repatriation, which also includes modifications related to citizenship. As reported by „Rz”, the legislation aims to prevent abuses while also increasing the budget for relocating repatriate families to Poland. It introduces new, elevated fees for processing applications for recognition and granting of citizenship: PLN 1,669.
– At present, the application for citizenship granted by the president is without charge – emphasizes Deputy Minister Duszczyk. The fee for confirming citizenship will also rise from PLN 58 to PLN 277.
The government aims to overhaul the citizenship regulations and present them in the autumn of 2025. – We recognize that Poland has evolved into an immigrant nation, and the new legislation will reflect this reality – adds Deputy Minister Duszczyk.
