Visas
▬ Airport Transit Visa (Type A) ▬
An airport transit visa (type A) allows a traveler to pass through the international transit zone of an airport. This means that the visa holder can travel via one or more Polish airports without entering Poland itself.
This visa type has a short validity period, typically up to 5 days, and is one of the least commonly issued visas.
▬ National Visa (Type D) ▬
A national visa (type D) grants a foreigner entry and residence in Poland for a period exceeding 90 days. It can be issued for a maximum of 365 days. If the visa is granted for a shorter period, it may be extended in exceptional cases up to a maximum of 365 days.
Additionally, a national visa allows travel within all Schengen countries under the same rules as a Schengen visa—meaning the foreigner can stay in another Schengen country for no longer than 90 days within any 180-day period.
▬ Schengen Visa (Type C) ▬
A Schengen visa (type C) allows entry and stay within the Schengen Area. A foreigner can stay in the Schengen Zone for no more than 90 days within any 180-day period.
A Schengen visa can either be uniform or territorially restricted. The uniform visa permits travel across the entire Schengen Area, whereas the restricted visa limits movement to specific Schengen countries listed on the visa. Currently, the Schengen Zone consists of 27 countries, including 23 that are part of the European Union.
A positive decision on a visa application is made by the consul or the Minister of Foreign Affairs, resulting in the issuance of a visa of a specific type.
In the event of a negative decision, the applicant has the right to submit a request for reconsideration within 14 days from the date of receiving the decision.
▬ Application Review Process ▬
The purpose of the visa determines the required documents that must be submitted along with the application.
Generally, the following documents are required:
✓ A document confirming the applicant’s identity and nationality;
✓ A photograph;
✓ Travel medical insurance.
Additionally, documents verifying the purpose of the visa issuance must be provided, such as:
✓ Documents confirming the purpose of travel;
✓ Proof of sufficient financial means.
▬ Types of Visas ▬
A foreigner can apply for a Schengen visa (type C), a national visa (type D), or an airport transit visa (type A) at Polish consular offices. Each visa has a specific validity period, which depends on its type and the purpose for which it is issued. The reason for obtaining a visa may vary—it could be for studying, visiting family, or tourism. Currently, there are around 30 different reasons for which a visa can be granted. It is essential that the purpose of the visa application is well-justified.
▬ Formal Requirements for a Visa Application ▬
A visa is a document that allows a person to cross the border and stay in Poland. The diplomatic mission (consulate) of the country to which a foreigner intends to travel is authorized to issue a visa. Whether a citizen of a particular country can enter Poland without a visa depends on an international agreement between Poland and the foreigner's country of origin. It is possible to travel under the so-called visa-free regime, which means that obtaining a visa is not required for moving between certain countries.
▬ Introduction ▬
▬ About Us ▬
We are based in Poland and specialize in legal assistance for foreigners, providing support in proceedings before public administration authorities. Our goal is client satisfaction, which is why we offer professional services tailored to individual needs, taking into account urgent situations and the expectations of even the most demanding clients.
▬ We are here ▬
▬ Contact Us ▬
ul. Macieja Kamieńskiego 5A/18
80-171 Gdańsk
✉︎ kontakt@lex-arte.com