Poland has introduced important reforms to its student visa process through the Act on the Elimination of Irregularities in the Visa System. If you’re a prospective first-year student applying for an undergraduate or long-cycle master’s program in Poland, and your high school diploma is from outside the EU, OECD, or EFTA countries.
You must now meet a new requirement before submitting your visa application.
New Rules:
The new regulation specifically targets first-year international students. If your high school diploma was issued in any country outside the following:
- European Union (EU) countries
- OECD countries (e.g., United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, South Korea)
- European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries (e.g., Switzerland, Norway)
- International Baccalaureate Organization (Geneva)
- Schools covered by bilateral agreements or treaty-recognized education systems
Then, you are now required to submit an additional document from NAWA.
NAWA “Written Information”
The National Agency for Academic Exchange (NAWA) now requires you to obtain a “Written Information” certificate confirming your diploma qualifies you for university-level education in Poland.
Without this document:
- Your student visa will be rejected automatically.
- No exceptions apply unless you already hold Polish diploma recognition.
Exemption:
If you already have official diploma recognition issued by a Polish Education Superintendent, then you do not need the NAWA certificate. That document can be submitted instead.
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Restrictions for Polish Consulate:
Polish consulates will not assist with:
- Applying for diploma recognition
- Contacting NAWA on your behalf
- Coordinating with your university
This step is your full responsibility. If you delay, you risk missing the academic year.
Benefits:
- Streamlined Application Process
Recent reforms have simplified the visa steps, making it easier to apply—especially with clear documentation requirements and updated checklists. - Early NAWA Recognition Option
Students from non-EU/OECD countries can now begin the NAWA document process in advance, reducing last-minute stress and rejection risks. - Wide Eligibility for International Students
Open to applicants from most countries worldwide, including India, Pakistan, Nigeria, Bangladesh, Brazil, and many more. - Faster Appointment Scheduling
Consulates are prioritizing early applicants with complete documents, giving “Quick Apply” users a head start on securing seats. - Access to High-Quality European Education
Study in globally recognized institutions in cities like Warsaw, Kraków, Gdańsk, and Wrocław. - Smooth Transition to Residence Permit
Once in Poland, students can easily convert their visa into a temporary residence permit for longer stays. - Work Rights While Studying
Visa holders can work up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during holidays, helping to support themselves. - Schengen Travel Access
Poland’s D-Type Study Visa allows travel within the Schengen Area (26 countries), ideal for academic and cultural exchange. - Clear Guidelines from Polish Government
The Polish consulate’s updated checklist and official guidance ensure transparency and reduce confusion. - Affordable Tuition & Living Costs
Compared to Western Europe, Poland offers high-quality education at relatively lower tuition fees and living expenses.
How to Apply for the NAWA “Written Information” Certificate?
Here’s a simplified step-by-step process to help you navigate the new requirement:
- Visit NAWA’s official website: https://nawa.gov.pl
- Create an account on the diploma recognition portal.
- Upload your diploma and certified Polish or English translations.
- Submit additional documents, such as curriculum or official grading scale (if requested).
- Pay the processing fee (amount may vary).
- Wait for the certificate (processing typically takes 3–6 weeks).
Pro Tip: Start this process immediately if you’re applying for intake.
Visa Checklist for D-Type Study Visa:
Make sure your application includes:
- Completed visa application form
- Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages and 6 months’ validity)
- Admission letter from a Polish university
- Proof of sufficient financial means
- Health insurance valid in the Schengen zone
- Recent passport-sized photos
- NAWA “Written Information” certificate or diploma recognition (if required)
- Visa application fee payment proof
Conclusion:
This change is designed to tighten academic quality control and prevent fraudulent applications—but it also means international students must prepare earlier and more carefully.
If you’re planning to study in Poland or beyond:
- Begin the NAWA certificate process immediately
- Double-check the latest consulate requirements
- Keep copies of every document and email you send or receive
A little preparation now can save your entire academic year later.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What if I already have a diploma recognition from a Polish Education Superintendent?
You do not need to apply for the NAWA certificate. The Superintendent’s recognition is sufficient for your visa application.
Can I apply for the student visa without the NAWA certificate?
No. If your diploma is from a non-approved country and you do not include the NAWA certificate, your visa application will be automatically rejected.
Who is eligible to apply for a Poland Study Visa?
Anyone accepted into a Polish higher education institution (undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral programs) may apply, provided they meet academic, financial, and documentation requirements. Eligibility also depends on your country of residence and your educational background.
