Citizenship by Presidential Grant

The Presidential Grant of Polish Citizenship is a unique, discretionary pathway that allows the President of the Republic of Poland to bestow citizenship upon any foreigner. Unlike other immigration routes, this is a constitutional power rather than an administrative process. It is the only way to become a Polish citizen without meeting strict statutory requirements regarding residency duration, financial stability, or official language certification.

Because this pathway is entirely at the President's discretion, it is often used by individuals who do not qualify for "Recognition as a Polish Citizen" (the standard naturalization route) but have exceptional merits, strong cultural ties, or significant achievements. However, as of 2026, this pathway has become increasingly restrictive, with a high volume of applications and a very low approval rate focused on high-impact individuals.

Before pursuing this path, you must understand the current climate and procedural realities:

• Unpredictable Timelines: There is no statutory deadline for the President to make a decision. While some cases are resolved in a year, many take 3 years or longer due to significant backlogs in the Chancellery.
• The "Language Trap": Many applicants choose this route specifically to avoid the B1 language exam required for standard naturalization. Be aware that the President's office frequently rejects these applications if they feel the applicant is simply trying to bypass standard integration requirements.
• Restrictive Approval Rates: As of early 2026, the administration has adopted a highly selective approach. Only a small fraction of the thousands of annual applicants are successful.

Once the President signs the Akt Nadania (Act of Granting), you immediately acquire the same rights as a natural-born citizen:

• EU Freedom of Movement: You gain the right to live, work, and study indefinitely in any of the 27 European Union member states.
• Consular Protection: You are entitled to the protection of Polish and EU diplomatic missions worldwide.
• Voting Rights: You have the right to vote and stand as a candidate in Polish local, national, and European Parliament elections.
• No Work Permit Required: You have unrestricted access to the Polish labor market without the need for additional permits.
• Dual Citizenship: Poland permits its citizens to hold multiple nationalities. However, you must check if your country of origin requires you to renounce your current citizenship upon becoming Polish.
• Family Benefits: Citizenship can be extended to your minor children if they are included in your application and the other parent consents.