Located in central Europe and named after the name of a tribe, Polanie, meaning “people living in open fields”, the country has unique blends of landscapes and architecture that set it apart from others. With the world’s largest castle, 16 World Heritage Sites, and the origin of many well-renowned traditional foods such as pierogies, Poland offers a wide variety of cultural experiences and opportunities that set it apart from others.
Keep reading to learn more about how you can reclaim your Polish citizenship through your family lineage.
Member of the European Union
Number of Ways to Apply
1
Generations Removed
3+
Travel Required?
No
The Polish government’s principles regarding citizenship are based on the Latin expression “jus sanguinis“, meaning “right of blood“. This means that if you meet the requirements to receive a Polish passport, you would be able to live, work, and study in any of the 28 countries throughout the European Union with no restrictions.
Requirements
Many people whose parents, grandparents or great-grandparents were born in the Czech Republic qualify for Polish citizenship through descent. Below are the personal requirements you must meet, as well as the documentation you must be able to present.
Lineage Requirements
To meet the requirements for Polish citizenship, you must have at least one direct ancestor who:
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Was born in a Polish territory and lived there after 1920
AND
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Left Poland before 1920, but your ancestor’s original ancestor’s address can be found in the Polish, Prussian, Russian or Austro-Hungarian registers
AND
-
Maintained their Polish citizenship until you were born
Paperwork Requirements
To apply for Polish citizenship, you must have the appropriate documents in order, and of which must be translated into Polish. You must be able to provide translated copies of:
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Your own birth certificate
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The birth certificate(s) and other relevant documents of your direct Polish ancestor