By Residence Angels
Relocation Company in Poland

Polish Citizenship by Marriage — Step-by-Step Guide (2025)

Reading time: 7 minutes

If you’re married to a Polish citizen, you might be eligible to obtain Polish citizenship by marriage. While marrying a Pole doesn’t grant citizenship automatically (this isn’t a Netflix rom-com), it does create a legal pathway — but you’ll need time, patience, and paperwork.

"Do I Need to Get Married in Poland?"

Nope. Your marriage can take place in any country. What matters is that your marriage certificate is:

Officially recognized in Poland,
Translated by a sworn translator, and
Registered through a Polish marital office (Urząd Stanu Cywilnego).

Step-by-Step: Citizenship by Marriage with a Polish Citizen

1. Get Married

Pretty self-explanatory. Bonus points if you invited your local voivode.

2. Apply for a Temporary Residence Card (TRC)

Once married, you can apply for a Temporary Residence Card (karta czasowego pobytu) based on your marriage. This allows legal stay and work in Poland.

3. Stay Married for 3 Years, Hold TRC for 2 Years

You must:

Be married to a Polish citizen for at least 3 years, and
Have legally stayed in Poland on the basis of a TRC for at least 2 years.

Consistency is key — don’t break the chain.

4. Apply for Permanent Residence Permit (PR)

After those 3 happy years together, you can apply for permanent residence (zezwolenie na pobyt stały). At this stage, you should already be integrated into Polish society, know the system — and probably how to cook pierogi.

5. Live 2 Years in Poland on PR — Continuously

You must remain in Poland for 2 more years on permanent residency without interruption (no long vacations in Bali!).

6. Pass the Polish Language Exam (B1)

To apply for citizenship, you must pass the Polish B1 exam, recognized by the state. Yes, it's required even if your spouse says you speak great Polish at home.

7. Apply for Polish Citizenship

Now you’re eligible to apply. Submit all documents to your local voivodeship office. The process may take 6–7 months in major cities like Warsaw, Kraków, or Poznań.

⚠️ Important Notes

If your marriage ends, and you’re still in the middle of the PR or citizenship process — your application may be rejected.
You must prove regular income and a place of residence in Poland throughout the process.
Processing times vary slightly based on region, but delays of up to 12 months are possible in busy cities.

🎯 Summary

Polish citizenship by marriage is a clear and legal path, but it’s not instant. With a timeline of 5–6 years, including language exams and multiple permits, it's a structured journey — not a shortcut. If you’re in a real, lasting relationship with a Polish citizen, this process is absolutely worth pursuing.