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Poland

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At a glance

Living index rating
Affordable
Monthly rent
PLN 600 – PLN 1,000 in a dorm; PLN 1,200 – PLN 2,200 shared flat (Warsaw higher)
Monthly food
PLN 800 – PLN 1,200
Other monthly expenses
PLN 300 – PLN 600 (transport, phone, utilities, personal)
Visa processing time
About 4 – 12 weeks
Family allowed for students
Limited

Visa requirements

  • National (D) student visa, then a temporary residence permit for study if you stay longer
  • Acceptance letter from a Polish university and proof of tuition payment
  • Proof of funds for living costs (about PLN 720 a month) plus return travel
  • Proof of accommodation and health insurance
  • Full-time students at public universities or MSWiA-approved universities can work without a work permit (from 1 July 2026 this applies only at approved institutions)

Work permit after studies

  • Graduates of full-time studies in Poland can work without a work permit
  • Temporary residence permit to look for work or start a business for up to 9 months after graduating (apply once, straight after your studies)
  • After that, switch to a work-based residence permit or EU Blue Card

Citizenship route

  • Permanent residence or EU long-term residence usually after 5 years of legal residence (half of study time counts)
  • Citizenship 'recognition' after a further 3 years of permanent residence with Polish at B1 level
  • The government has proposed tougher rules in 2025 – 2026, including about 8 years of residence and a citizenship test; check the current law

Family details

  • Students generally can't bring family on the basis of a study permit
  • Spouses can get family reunification once the student holds certain permits, e.g. after 2 years of temporary residence with a further permit of at least 1 year
  • Family members can visit on Schengen visas

Universities in Poland

Top-ranked

All other universities and colleges (321), A–Z

This guide is for general information. Visa and immigration rules change often, so always check the official government website before you apply. Last updated 6 October 2026.