Family Reunion Visa (Type D) – Poland
A family reunion visa allows you to join your family member who is legally residing in Poland. This long-term visa is for spouses, children, and other eligible family members of Polish citizens or residents.
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What is a Family Reunion Visa for Poland?
A family reunion visa (Type D national visa) allows you to join your family member who is legally residing in Poland or is a Polish citizen. This long-term visa is designed to keep families together and allows eligible family members to live in Poland permanently.
Unlike short-term Schengen visas, family reunion visas are national visas that allow stays longer than 90 days. After arrival in Poland, you can apply for a temporary residence permit to establish long-term residence.
Family reunion is a fundamental right recognized by Polish and EU law, ensuring that families can live together regardless of nationality differences.
Family reunion visa requirements for Poland
Who Can Apply for Family Reunion
Schengen Countries & Family Rights
The Schengen area consists of 29 European countries. These include the EU member states except Ireland and Cyprus and the non-EU countries Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Iceland. Citizens of these states and foreign nationals with a valid residence permit for one of these countries enjoy freedom of travel within the Schengen area — border controls only occur at external borders.
The issuance of visas for the Schengen countries is regulated uniformly – depending on the purpose of the trip and the length of the stay, the following visa categories may apply:
Eligible Family Members
The following family members can apply for a family reunion visa to join their relative in Poland:
Important Note
Your sponsor (family member in Poland) must have legal residence status or Polish citizenship. For official information about family reunion procedures, visit the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
Types of Family Visas
Type D National Visa
Long-term visa for family reunion purposes
Temporary Residence Permit
After arrival, apply for residence permit
Requirements and Documents
Required Documents
Important Requirements
Document Legalization
Foreign documents must be apostilled and officially translated into Polish.
Family Relationship
Must prove genuine family relationship with official documents.
Financial Support
Sponsor must demonstrate ability to financially support family member.
Sponsor Requirements
The family member already residing in Poland (sponsor) must meet specific requirements to support your family reunion visa application:
Sponsor Must Provide
- Valid residence permit in Poland or Polish citizenship
- Stable income to support family member
- Adequate accommodation for family member
- Health insurance for the family member
- Declaration of financial support
- Proof of family relationship
Application Process
Family reunion visa applications must be submitted at the Polish embassy, consulate, or visa application center in your country of residence. A personal appointment is required for biometric data collection and document submission.
Processing time typically takes 30-60 days, but can be longer during peak periods or if additional documentation is required. We recommend applying at least 90 days before your planned travel date.
The Polish missions accept visa applications up to 6 months before the planned trip. The visa fee is €80 for adults. Children between 6-12 years pay €40, and children under 6 years are exempt from fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work in Poland with a family reunion visa?▼
Yes, family reunion visa holders can work in Poland without needing a separate work permit. You have the same employment rights as your sponsor.
How long does it take to get a family reunion visa?▼
Processing typically takes 30-60 days from the date of application. Complex cases or missing documents can extend this timeframe.
Can unmarried partners apply for family reunion?▼
Generally, only married spouses are eligible. However, registered partnerships recognized in Poland may qualify. Consult with the Polish consulate for specific cases.
What happens after I arrive in Poland?▼
After arrival, you must apply for a temporary residence permit within 45 days. This allows you to stay in Poland long-term and eventually apply for permanent residence.
Can my children attend Polish schools?▼
Yes, children with family reunion visas have the right to attend Polish public schools on the same terms as Polish children, including free education.
Ready to Reunite with Your Family?
Start your family reunion visa application early and ensure you have all required documents. Contact the Polish consulate in your country for specific requirements.