Residence Card by Marriage to a Polish Citizen

Residence Card by Marriage to a Polish Citizen: A New Chapter in Life
Marriage to a Polish citizen opens opportunities for foreigners to legalize their stay in the country. One of the key documents for this is the residence card, which is issued based on marriage. This document confirms the status of the spouse of a Polish citizen and grants the right to live in Poland permanently. If your marriage is officially registered with a Polish citizen, obtaining a residence card will be an important step toward a stable life in this country.
What is a Residence Card by Marriage?
A residence card issued based on marriage to a Polish citizen is a temporary residence permit. It allows the spouse of a Polish citizen to stay in Poland, providing the right to live, work, and access social services. This document may also serve as a basis for obtaining a permanent residence permit or Polish citizenship in the future.

Advantages of a Residence Card by Marriage to a Polish Citizen:
- Legal residence in Poland: The residence card allows you to stay in the country without the need to constantly renew a visa.
- Right to employment: With this document, you can work in Poland without needing additional permits.
- Access to social protection: You will be able to use medical services, participate in pension programs, and enjoy other social rights.
- Freedom of movement in the Schengen Area: The residence card allows you to travel within EU countries without a visa for up to 90 days in a 180-day period.
- Path to citizenship: After two years of living in marriage to a Polish citizen, you can apply for Polish citizenship.
Get a free consultation
Submit your request, and we will help you navigate the complexities of legalizing your stay, employment, and business registration in Poland. Our team of experts is ready to answer your questions, assess your situation, and suggest the best course of action to achieve your goals. Fill out the form, and we will contact you at a convenient time.
How to Obtain a Residence Card by Marriage?
Document Preparation:
- Foreign passport and its copy.
- Marriage certificate registered in Poland.
- Passport of your spouse – a Polish citizen.
- Documents confirming cohabitation.
- Proof of stable income.
- Insurance for the entire duration of stay.
- Passport-sized photo.
Submitting the Application:
The application for the residence card is submitted to the voivodeship office at the place of residence. This can be done personally or through a representative.
Waiting for the Decision:
The processing of your application can take from 3 to 6 months. During this period, you will be issued a temporary residence permit.
Receiving the Card:
After the successful processing of your application, you will receive a residence card valid for up to 3 years, with the possibility of extension.


Who Can Apply for a Residence Card?
To apply for a residence card by marriage to a Polish citizen, the following conditions must be met:
- Be officially married to a Polish citizen.
- Reside together in Poland.
- Prove stable income and housing.
- Prove the authenticity of the marriage, especially if it was recently concluded.
Get a free consultation
Submit your request, and we will help you navigate the complexities of legalizing your stay, employment, and business registration in Poland. Our team of experts is ready to answer your questions, assess your situation, and suggest the best course of action to achieve your goals. Fill out the form, and we will contact you at a convenient time.

Validity and Features of the Residence Card:
A residence card based on marriage to a Polish citizen is issued for up to 3 years with the possibility of extension. If the marriage is dissolved before the card expires, the document may be canceled.
Important Points:
- Marriage Verification: If the marriage was recently concluded, Polish authorities may request additional documents to confirm the authenticity of the relationship.
- Cohabitation: You must provide proof of living together at the same address.
- Sufficient Income: The Polish citizen spouse must have sufficient income to support the joint life.
Common Mistakes in Application:
- Incomplete documents: Missing documents may delay the process or even lead to a refusal.
- Errors in the forms: Double-check the information for accuracy.
- Missing deadlines: The application must be submitted before the visa or other residence permit expires.
A residence card by marriage to a Polish citizen provides significant opportunities for legal residence, employment, and access to social rights in the country. It can serve as a basis for future citizenship applications and a stable life in one of Europe’s most attractive countries.
If you need assistance with obtaining a residence card or other documents, contact ERA Consulting. We will support you at every stage, from document preparation to application submission, helping you avoid potential mistakes and negative consequences.