Permanent Residence Card Based on Ancestry

The Permanent Residence Card Based on Ancestry: How to Confirm Polish Descent and Obtain Permanent Residency in Poland

Poland is renowned for its rich history and numerous emigrants. Millions of people around the world can be proud of their Polish roots, which opens opportunities for legal residence in the land of their ancestors. If you can prove your Polish descent, obtaining the Permanent Residence Card based on ancestry (Karta Stałego Pobytu na podstawie pochodzenia) will be an important step toward establishing a new home, ensuring stability, and gaining new opportunities in Poland.
In this article, we will discuss who can obtain the Permanent Residence Card based on ancestry, which documents are needed to confirm Polish descent, and the steps involved in the application process.

What is the Permanent Residence Card Based on Ancestry?

The Permanent Residence Card based on ancestry is an official document that grants a foreigner the right to reside permanently in Poland based on proven Polish descent. This status allows individuals to live in the country indefinitely, work without needing additional permits, and access social services on equal terms with Polish citizens. Obtaining this document is often an intermediate step on the path to Polish citizenship.

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What Documents Are Needed to Confirm Polish Descent?

The key step in obtaining the Permanent Residence Card based on ancestry is gathering and submitting documents that prove Polish descent. The required documents may include:

Birth and marriage certificates (yours and those of your ancestors, including grandparents), indicating Polish nationality or citizenship.
Archival documents confirming the Polish citizenship of ancestors.
Church records proving Polish descent.
Documents from Polish state archives or other countries.
Baptismal certificates, school diplomas, or other documents supporting Polish descent.
The Polish Card (if available).
All documents must be translated into Polish and notarized.

Steps in the Process of Obtaining the Permanent Residence Card Based on Ancestry

The process of obtaining the Permanent Residence Card based on ancestry includes several key steps:

Document Preparation.
Gathering all the necessary documents is the main stage. It is important to check in advance which documents can be used to prove descent and whether they meet Polish authorities’ requirements.
Application Submission.
The application should be submitted to the Voivodeship Office for Foreign Affairs (Urząd Wojewódzki) at the applicant’s place of residence in Poland. It is important to attach all collected documents, the completed form, and pay the state fee (approximately 640 zlotys). If applying through the Polish Card, the state fee is waived.
Interview.
After submitting the application, you may be invited for an interview, where you will need to demonstrate your knowledge of the Polish language and understanding of key aspects of Polish culture and history.
Waiting for a Decision.
The processing time for the application can range from 3 to 12 months, depending on the complexity of the case and the workload of the institutions.
Obtaining the Permanent Residence Card.
After receiving a positive response, you will be issued a Permanent Residence Card valid for 10 years, with the possibility of renewal.

Who is Eligible for the Permanent Residence Card Based on Ancestry?

Foreigners can apply for the Permanent Residence Card based on ancestry if they can prove their Polish descent. Polish law defines several categories of people who are eligible for this status:

Individuals with at least one parent, grandparent, or great-grandparent of Polish descent.
Individuals whose ancestors were Polish citizens.
Foreigners who previously held a Polish Card and wish to obtain permanent residency based on it.
It is important to note that the applicant must not only prove their Polish roots but also demonstrate a connection to Polish culture, language, and traditions.

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Benefits of the Permanent Residence Card Based on Ancestry

The benefits of obtaining the Permanent Residence Card based on ancestry include:

Indefinite residence in Poland without the need to renew a visa or temporary residence permit.
The right to work in Poland without the need for a work permit.
Access to the social system: healthcare, education, and pension benefits.
The ability to travel visa-free within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within every 180-day period.
The opportunity to apply for Polish citizenship after several years of residence.

Main Challenges and How to Overcome Them

The process of obtaining the Permanent Residence Card based on ancestry may involve various challenges, such as:

Lack of documents. If you do not have direct proof of Polish descent, you can contact archives or consulates to obtain the necessary information.
The need to prove a connection with Polish culture. Having basic knowledge of the language and being ready to demonstrate an understanding of traditions and culture are important aspects.
Long processing times. Prepare documents in advance and submit your application on time to avoid delays.

The Permanent Residence Card based on ancestry offers many foreigners the opportunity to return to the land of their ancestors, find stability, and create new opportunities in Poland. Despite possible difficulties, careful preparation and attention to detail will help you successfully complete the process and obtain permanent resident status.