Karta Polaka (Pole’s Card)

To qualify for the Pole’s Card, you must meet several cumulative criteria regarding your ancestry, language skills, and personal declaration.

1. Evidence of Polish Origin

You must prove your connection to the Polish Nation through one of two primary routes:

• The Ancestry Route: You must demonstrate that at least one parent, one grandparent, or two great-grandparents were of Polish nationality or held Polish citizenship.
• The Activity Route: If you cannot prove Polish ancestry, you may qualify by providing a written certificate from an authorized Polish organization abroad. This certificate must confirm that you have been actively involved in promoting Polish language and culture for at least the last three years.

2. Language and Cultural Proficiency

You must demonstrate at least a basic knowledge of the Polish language and a familiarity with Polish traditions and customs. This is not merely a paperwork requirement; you will be required to pass an interview (conducted in Polish) with a Consul or a Voivode to prove your proficiency and cultural connection.

3. Declaration of Belonging

You must sign a formal declaration stating your affiliation with the Polish Nation. This is a symbolic and legal commitment to your Polish identity.

4. Exclusions and Limitations

You are ineligible for a Karta Polaka if:

• You already hold Polish citizenship or a permanent residence permit (Karta Stałego Pobytu) in Poland.
• Your ancestors were repatriated from Poland under international agreements made between 1944 and 1957 (specifically agreements between Poland and the former USSR).
• You are currently stateless (in most jurisdictions, you must hold a foreign nationality to apply).