Can You Have Dual Citizenship?

Dual Citizenship in Poland

Before answering whether dual citizenship is possible in Poland, let us first explain the concept. If a person has dual citizenship, it means they hold two or more passports from different countries. In Polish terminology, there are no such terms as "triple" or "quadruple" citizenship.

In Poland, holding dual citizenship is entirely acceptable. However, such a person is treated within the territory of the Republic of Poland solely as a Polish citizen. For example, they cannot enter the country as a German or French citizen.

What Are the Benefits of Dual Citizenship?

Dual citizenship opens up numerous opportunities in both personal and professional life. Holding citizenship in two countries provides rights to the privileges of both nations, such as access to employment, education, social protection, and visa-free travel under international agreements.

It can also facilitate business activities in different parts of the world. For many, dual citizenship serves as a form of security in case of unforeseen political or economic circumstances. Moreover, it allows individuals to maintain cultural and family ties with both countries, enriching their identity through multifaceted experiences.

However, it also comes with responsibilities towards both nations, such as complying with their laws, fulfilling tax obligations, and, in some cases, mandatory military service.

Which Countries Do Not Allow Dual Citizenship?

Most countries permit dual citizenship, but there are exceptions. For example, India, China, and the United Arab Emirates do not allow it.

In Saudi Arabia, obtaining an additional passport without renouncing Saudi citizenship is considered a crime.

Polish-Belarusian Dual Citizenship

Belarus is one of the countries where holding a second passport is not allowed. Therefore, if a Belarusian wishes to obtain Polish citizenship, they must renounce their Belarusian citizenship.

Polish-Ukrainian Dual Citizenship

What about Ukrainian citizens who want to acquire a passport from another country, such as Poland? Formally, Ukraine recognizes only one passport. However, there are no penalties for individuals who hold dual Ukrainian-Polish citizenship.

Renouncing Polish Citizenship

There are cases where Poles consider renouncing their citizenship. This may occur not only when seeking a passport from a country that does not allow dual citizenship but also for practical reasons. In some nations (e.g., the United States), individuals holding specific government positions must have only American citizenship.

Renouncing Polish citizenship is possible only if you already possess the passport of another country or have a guarantee of acquiring it.

However, keep in mind that once you renounce Polish citizenship, it cannot be reinstated. If you wish to obtain a Polish passport again, you must apply for citizenship through the same procedures as foreigners.

How to Become a Polish Citizen?

A child can automatically acquire Polish citizenship at birth if at least one parent is a Polish citizen, regardless of the birthplace. This is based on the principle of "right of blood" (Latin: ius sanguinis). A child born in Poland to unknown parents, stateless individuals, or those whose citizenship cannot be determined also acquires Polish citizenship under the "right of soil" (Latin: ius soli).

Granting Polish Citizenship

The President of Poland has the exclusive right to grant Polish citizenship to any individual, regardless of their current status or place of residence. This process is discretionary, meaning the President is not bound by any additional criteria or legal requirements. Applications for Polish citizenship are submitted through the Polish consulate (for those living abroad) or the provincial governor (voivode) in Poland.

Recognition as a Polish Citizen

Another route is recognition as a Polish citizen. This process applies to individuals who meet specific criteria, such as the length of legal residence in Poland under a permanent residency permit, integration into Polish society, or Polish ancestry. The decision is made by the provincial governor (voivode) of the applicant's place of residence. Upon approval, the individual gains all the rights and obligations of a Polish citizen.

Summary

Dual citizenship in Poland is allowed, and holding a Polish passport offers numerous benefits, such as the right to work, education, and visa-free travel. However, a person with dual citizenship is treated as a Polish citizen within the territory of Poland.

If you wish to acquire Polish citizenship or are interested in legalizing your stay and work in Poland, contact us. We specialize in providing comprehensive services for foreigners, including:

• Confirmation of Polish citizenship;
• Invitations for foreigners;
• Work permits in Poland;
• Temporary and permanent residence permits;
• Extensions of work and residence permits in Poland;
• County office information for foreigners;
• Visas for foreigners.