17 — National Visa - Repatriation

This visa is designed for individuals of Polish descent to return to their ancestral homeland and acquire citizenship. Applicants must demonstrate Polish heritage and have previously resided in designated territories (notably the Asian part of the former Soviet Union) before January 1, 2001. There are no visa fees, and full labor market access is granted immediately upon arrival.

The application is processed in 15–30 working days, with standard cases taking 15 days from payment and complex cases extending to 30 days. The visa grants permanent residency and is non-renewable, as it effectively confers citizenship status upon entry. Spouses and descendants up to the 4th degree may accompany the primary applicant.

This visa is ideal for Polish diaspora members in Eastern European or former Soviet territories who wish to relocate permanently and reclaim citizenship in their ancestral homeland.