Polish Card for Ukrainians – How to Obtain It?

The Polish Card for Ukrainians provides a range of privileges, such as the possibility of free education at public institutions and the ability to work without additional permits. However, not everyone is eligible to apply for this document. Therefore, make sure you meet all the criteria and check how to submit an application.

What is the Polish Card?
The Polish Card is a document that confirms affiliation with the Polish nation. However, this does not mean that the person receives Polish citizenship. The Polish Card is not a document that allows border crossing or settling in Poland. Its holder can, however, work in Poland without needing a work permit, an invitation for a foreigner, or the starosta's information for a foreigner.

The Polish Card is issued for 10 years. After this period, you can apply for its extension. People over the age of 65 receive a lifelong document.

Polish Card for Ukrainians – Who Can Apply?
A Ukrainian citizen can apply for the Polish Card if they:

Prove their connection to Polishness by having at least basic knowledge of the Polish language, which they consider their native language, and demonstrate knowledge of and involvement in Polish traditions and customs;
In the presence of a consul, submit a written declaration of affiliation with the Polish Nation;
Show that they are of Polish nationality, or at least one of their parents, grandparents, or two great-grandparents was of Polish nationality, or provide a certificate from an authorized Polish or Polish diaspora organization confirming their active involvement in activities supporting the Polish language, culture, or the Polish national minority for at least the past three years;
Submit a statement that neither they nor their ancestors repatriated from Poland under the agreements made by Poland with the Belarusian, Ukrainian, Lithuanian SSR, or the USSR between 1944-1957;
Have Polish descent, which has been confirmed in accordance with the provisions of the Repatriation Act of November 9, 2000, provided they demonstrate at least basic knowledge of the Polish language.

What Does the Polish Card Offer a Ukrainian Citizen?
The Polish Card for Ukrainians in Poland grants several privileges, such as:

No need for a work permit and the ability to establish and run a business on the same terms as Polish citizens;
The ability to attend university, doctoral studies, engage in various forms of education, and participate in research and development projects;
Access to emergency healthcare services;
A 37% discount on single tickets for personal, express, and fast trains in Poland;
Free entry to selected national museums in Poland;
Consular support in life-threatening or security-related situations in accordance with applicable regulations and international practices;
Exemption from consular fees related to:

Processing the application for a visa for foreigners to use the rights associated with the Polish Card;
Considering an application for Polish citizenship;

Financial assistance to partially cover living costs in Poland when applying for permanent residence, granted for up to 9 months;
Priority when applying for financial support directed at Poles living abroad.

How to Apply for the Polish Card?
You can submit an application for the Polish Card as a Ukrainian citizen at any Voivodeship Office or consular office abroad. No fees are required for this application.

If you want to ensure that your application is filled out correctly, contact us. Comprehensive support for foreigners is our specialty. We also help with matters such as obtaining temporary and permanent residence permits or extending work and residence permits in Poland.

Summary
The Polish Card offers Ukrainian citizens who meet certain criteria related to Polishness a wide range of privileges in Poland. It not only makes it easier to work and set up a business without the need for additional permits but also provides access to education, travel discounts, free museum entry, and special consular support. It is important to note that the Polish Card does not grant Polish citizenship but confirms affiliation with the Polish nation and provides a number of rights that make life and activities in Poland easier. Those interested in obtaining the Polish Card should thoroughly check if they meet all the required criteria and familiarize themselves with the application procedure to take advantage of these opportunities.

If you encounter any problems or have doubts, feel free to contact our Citizens Affairs Office (Kancelaria ds. Obywatelskich). The legalization of residence and work will be much easier with our assistance.