A family reunion visa in Poland allows non-EU nationals to join family members already residing in Poland, whether for study, work, or permanent settlement. This visa helps families stay together legally, offering a pathway to live, work, or study in Poland. The process involves several steps, which can vary based on the applicant’s situation, but the following guide provides a general step-by-step approach to securing a family reunion visa for Poland.
1. Understand Eligibility Requirements
Before applying for a family reunion visa, it’s important to confirm whether you meet the eligibility requirements. The visa is generally available to immediate family members of individuals who:
- Hold a Polish residence permit or EU long-term residence permit.
- Are EU/EEA or Swiss nationals living in Poland.
- Have obtained refugee status or subsidiary protection in Poland.
Eligible family members include:
- Spouses of the individual residing in Poland.
- Children (including adopted children) under the age of 18.
- Dependent parents or grandparents, if applicable.
Each family member must apply for a separate visa, and the sponsor (the person residing in Poland) must meet specific conditions such as stable income and adequate housing.
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2. Choose the Appropriate Visa Type
The most common visa for family reunification purposes is the National Visa (D-Type). This visa allows you to stay in Poland for more than 90 days and is typically valid for one year. After arriving in Poland, you can apply for a temporary residence permit to continue living in the country with your family.
The family reunion visa does not automatically grant permission to work. However, after arriving in Poland and obtaining a temporary residence permit, family members may apply for work authorization if needed.
3. Prepare the Necessary Documents
The visa application requires specific documents to prove the relationship and confirm that you meet the necessary conditions. These documents must be original or officially certified copies, and they must be translated into Polish by a certified translator. The following are typically required:
- Completed Visa Application Form: This form can be obtained from the Polish consulate or embassy website. Ensure that all information provided is accurate.
- Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the intended stay in Poland and have at least two blank pages.
- Passport-Sized Photos: Submit recent photos that meet the Polish visa requirements. These should be in color, taken against a light background, and show your full face.
- Proof of Family Relationship: This can include a marriage certificate for spouses, birth certificates for children, or other official documents confirming the family relationship.
- Proof of Legal Stay of Sponsor: The family member already residing in Poland (the sponsor) must provide proof of their legal stay in the country. This could include a valid residence permit, work permit, or documentation of EU citizenship.
- Proof of Adequate Income: The sponsor must demonstrate that they have sufficient financial means to support the family member(s) joining them in Poland. This typically involves submitting recent bank statements, employment contracts, or tax returns showing stable income.
- Proof of Accommodation: You must provide proof that you have adequate accommodation in Poland, such as a rental agreement or proof of homeownership.
- Health Insurance: Proof of health insurance covering the duration of your stay in Poland is necessary. The insurance should meet Polish requirements, often with a minimum coverage of €30,000.
- Proof of Visa Fee Payment: You will need to pay a visa application fee and provide proof of payment. Fees vary by country and can be checked on the Polish embassy or consulate website.
4. Submit the Application
Once you have gathered the required documents, you will need to submit your visa application to the Polish consulate or embassy in your home country. Make sure to book an appointment in advance, as visa appointment slots may be limited.
At the consulate, you will submit your application form, all supporting documents, and biometric data (fingerprints and photographs). In some cases, the consular officer may conduct an interview to verify the information in your application and ask questions about your family relationship and plans in Poland.
If you need more explanation or more information, you can book a consultation and speak to Happy Face
5. Wait for Visa Processing
After submitting your application, the consulate will review your documents and begin processing your visa. The processing time can vary, but it typically takes between 30 to 60 days. During this period, the consulate may request additional documents or information, so it’s important to stay in contact with them and respond promptly to any requests.
Once the decision is made, the consulate will notify you of the outcome. If your visa is approved, you will receive a visa sticker in your passport, allowing you to travel to Poland and join your family.
6. Apply for a Temporary Residence Permit
Upon arriving in Poland with your family reunion visa, you will need to apply for a temporary residence permit (Karta Pobytu) if you plan to stay longer than your visa allows. This permit allows you to live in Poland for an extended period and is typically valid for up to three years.
To apply for a temporary residence permit, visit the Voivodeship Office (Urząd Wojewódzki) in the region where you and your family are residing. You will need to submit many of the same documents used for your visa application, including proof of family relationship, income, accommodation, and health insurance. Additionally, you will need to provide biometric data (fingerprints and photographs) for your residence card.
The residence permit application process can take several months, so it’s essential to apply as soon as possible after arriving in Poland. You are allowed to stay in Poland legally while your residence permit is being processed, even if your visa expires during that time.
7. Attend Interviews (If Required)
In some cases, the immigration authorities may require both the applicant and the sponsor (family member in Poland) to attend an interview. The purpose of this interview is to verify the legitimacy of the family relationship and ensure that all information provided is accurate.
During the interview, you may be asked questions about your family, your plans in Poland, and the sponsor’s ability to support you. It’s important to answer truthfully and provide any additional documentation if requested.
If you need more explanation or more information, you can book a consultation and speak to Happy Face
8. Obtain the Residence Permit
Once your temporary residence permit is approved, you will receive a residence card that allows you to live and, in some cases, work in Poland. Make sure to keep this card with you at all times, as it serves as proof of your legal residence in the country.
The residence permit is typically valid for up to three years and can be renewed if needed. Be sure to apply for renewal before the permit expires to avoid any legal issues.
9. Apply for Permanent Residence (If Eligible)
After living in Poland for a specified period, typically five years, family members may become eligible for permanent residence or EU long-term residence status. Permanent residence grants you the right to live, work, and study in Poland without needing further permits. Additionally, it opens up the possibility of applying for Polish citizenship if you meet the necessary requirements.
To apply for permanent residence, you will need to submit documents proving your continuous legal stay in Poland, your income, health insurance, and accommodation. The process may take several months, but once approved, you will receive a permanent residence card valid for ten years.
If you need more explanation or more information, you can book a consultation and speak to Happy Face
If you need more explanation or more information, you can book a consultation and speak to Happy Face
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