Turks in Poland - What is life like for the Turkish minority?

Table of contents:

• History of Polish-Turkish relations
• Turks in Poland
• A Turk's stay in Poland – what does it look like from the formal side?
• Acquisition of Polish citizenship by a Turkish citizen
• Summary

The history of Polish-Turkish relations had a turbulent beginning. From the 15th century, the Ottoman Empire sought dominance over Europe, just as the Kingdom of Poland sought to maximize its influence. The most significant clashes between the two armies occurred at Varna (1444) and Vienna (1683). However, contemporary historians much more frequently discuss relations during the partitions and the two world wars.

A legend persists in Polish society that the Turks were the only ones who did not recognize the partitions of Poland, leaving the chair empty for the Polish ambassador until 1918. To be precise, the Turks only rejected the Russian partition, a response to the strained relations between the two countries. It is true, however, that Polish immigration was always warmly welcomed in the Ottoman Empire. Modern-day Turks fondly recall the role played by Polish soldiers in the Ottoman army. Some of them – including General Józef Bem – adopted Turkish surnames and converted to Islam.

During World War II, Turkey remained neutral, and the Polish embassy was able to operate there unhindered, prompting numerous protests from Nazi Germany. Polish refugees could then count on a warm welcome and support, and Turkey became a transit country for our compatriots. After the war, the Turks recognized both governments – the Polish People's Republic and the Polish Government-in-Exile.

After the end of World War II, many Turkish engineers came to Poland to help rebuild the country. Not all returned to their homeland – some remained, accepting Polish citizenship for a foreigner . Polish-Turkish marriages often gave rise to families whose members still feel connected to both nations. Nowadays, marrying a Turkish man in Poland is not an isolated incident – globalization and frequent travel by Poles are fostering international relationships.

Turks in Poland are strongly integrated into Polish society, yet they also remain faithful to their traditions. They are typically Muslims and cultivate the religious and family customs associated with it, although the degree of observance varies in practice. In many cases, these traditions are combined with Polish customs, fostering mutual understanding and building relationships based on cultural dialogue. This applies both to everyday life and to important family events such as weddings, births, and holidays.

Turkish citizens' residence and employment in Poland are subject to special regulations. These rights stem from Decision No. 1/80 of the Turkey-EEC Association Council of 19 September 1980, adopted to deepen association cooperation. This Council was established under the Association Agreement between the European Economic Community and Turkey, signed in Ankara on 12 September 1963. Based on these regulations, Turkish citizens acquire the following rights:

• after a year of legal work in Poland, he or she is entitled to extend his or her work permit with the same employer, provided that the position continues to exist,
• after three years of uninterrupted, legal employment – with priority given to Polish citizens – may take up work in the same profession with another employer,
• after four years of legal work in the territory of the Republic of Poland, he or she is able to perform work without the need for a permit.

Special regulations also apply to family members of Turkish citizens:

• a family member who has obtained permission for a Turkish person to stay in Poland under the family reunification procedure acquires the right to take up employment after five years of legal residence,
• Children of Turkish citizens who have completed vocational education in Poland may take up employment after three years of legal employment of one of their parents in the territory of the Republic of Poland.

Marrying a Turkish citizen in Poland and starting work in the Republic of Poland often spark plans to become a permanent part of Polish society. What are the formalities? Foreigners can apply for Polish citizenship or recognition as a Polish citizen. The former is a unique procedure, and the decision rests solely with the President of the Republic of Poland. Correctly worded applications are crucial. Similarly, citizenship requires meeting specific requirements and gathering numerous documents. Fortunately, you don't have to go it alone – comprehensive services for foreigners are our specialty. We will help you prepare your application and, if necessary, advise you on the next steps in the event of a negative decision. We also provide a power of attorney to represent the foreigner for those who don't want to handle the process themselves.

Read also: Polish origin and applying for Polish citizenship .

Polish-Turkish relations have a long and multifaceted history, evolving over the centuries from military rivalry to cooperation and mutual support. Today, these relations are reflected not only at the political and economic levels but also in everyday social life – in the form of an integrated Turkish diaspora in Poland, intermarriage, and the active presence of Turks in the Polish labor market. Current regulations make the residence and employment of Turkish citizens in Poland attractive to many foreigners, and clearly defined paths for legalizing residence and acquiring Polish citizenship enable long-term planning for life in Poland. As a result, contemporary Polish-Turkish relations are based on partnership, mutual respect, and genuine interpersonal connections that effectively bind both nations.

If you are interested in legalizing your stay and work , contact us – our law firm will provide you with comprehensive support.