How to Get Polish Citizenship by Descent: Step-by-Step Guide to Your European Passport

Have you researched your family history and discovered that you’re of Polish descent? If so, you’ve probably heard about the possibility of dual citizenship. Are you interested in applying for Polish citizenship but unsure how to do it properly? You’re in the right place!

Understanding how the Polish citizenship process works is not always simple or quick. It requires having the right documents and following the correct legal steps to obtain your Polish passport and claim your European citizenship.

Don’t give up just because the process seems bureaucratic or time-consuming. This article is here to help you. Keep reading to learn the step-by-step guide to getting Polish citizenship and the documents you’ll need.

Why You Should Apply for Polish Citizenship

Holding Polish citizenship means unrestricted access to all EU countries. Imagine traveling, studying, or working across Europe without worrying about visas and paperwork. You’ll only go through the bureaucracy once — after that, you’re free to move, work, and live across the European Union.

And it’s not just for you. Your children and future generations will also benefit from Polish dual citizenship, enjoying the same rights and opportunities.

However, before enjoying these benefits, it’s crucial to understand how the process of obtaining Polish citizenship by descent works — especially if you don’t speak Polish or aren’t familiar with Polish legal procedures. That’s why working with a specialized citizenship agency in Poland can make all the difference.

7 Steps to Obtain Polish Citizenship by Descent

1) Check and Confirm Your Eligibility for Polish Citizenship

Polish citizenship is based on the right of blood (jus sanguinis). If one of your parents or ancestors was a Polish citizen, you may also be legally entitled to Polish citizenship by descent, regardless of where you were born or currently live.

  • Your ancestor was a Polish citizen;
  • You are directly descended from them;
  • They did not lose their Polish citizenship over time.

This eligibility check is essential — without it, no further steps matter.

2) Gather the Required Polish Documents

You must provide official Polish documents proving your ancestor’s citizenship. Key documents may include:

  • Polish passports;
  • Polish national ID cards;
  • Proofs of residency in Poland;
  • Voter registration records;
  • Military records.

All documents must have been issued by Polish authorities after 1920. Without them, your application will not be processed.

3) Search Polish Archives for Missing Documents

If you don’t have the necessary documents, hire a professional researcher to search Polish state and regional archives. Experts know where and how to find official records such as birth, marriage, and military documents.

4) Appoint a Legal Representative in Poland

Since 2009, applicants outside Poland must appoint a legal representative (procurator) based in Poland. While you can submit your application through a consulate, further steps must be handled in Poland by your representative.

5) Understand Dual Citizenship Laws in Poland

Polish authorities consider anyone with Polish dual citizenship to be only Polish. Benefits include:

  • Working and living freely in any EU country;
  • Access to healthcare and education across Europe;
  • Simplified travel and visa processes.

Countries with large Polish diaspora communities (United States, Canada, Brazil, Israel) generally allow dual citizenship, so renouncing your current nationality is usually unnecessary.

6) Get Your European Union Passport

After obtaining Polish citizenship, you can apply for a Polish passport — effectively an EU passport. It allows visa-free travel, residency, and employment across the EU, benefiting your family for generations.

7) See the Process as an Investment

Costs may include archive research, certified translations, passport fees, and legal representation. Yet the long-term value of EU citizenship far outweighs these expenses.

Ready to Begin? Start with a Free Polish Citizenship Eligibility Test

Now that you know how to apply for Polish citizenship by descent, take the first step: 👉 Check your eligibility now with our free, quick online assessment.

Already got your Polish citizenship with our help? Share your experience in the comments — your story could inspire others!