Pole’s card for Ukrainian, Belarusian and Russian citizens
Pole’s card, known also as Polish Charter or Polish Card is a document confirming belonging to the Polish nation, thanks to which a foreigner may benefit from a number of privileges. It is granted according to the conditions defined by the Act on the Pole’s Card dated 7 September 2007. Among other requirements, an applicant needs to prove his/her knowledge of the Polish language, culture and customs on, at least, basic level during a meeting with a consul. The definition of this basic level may vary depending on the civil servant who is in charge of your case.
If you have Polish origins, but you don’t know Polish and you even dread to think about an interview in a Polish consulate, I can help you. My school offers Polish language courses for Ukrainians, Belarusians and Russians who apply for this document.
A Pole’s Card holder’s rights:
A holder of the Pole’s Card has the right to:
- exemption from the obligation to have a work permit for foreigners;
• set up a company on the same basis as citizens of Poland; - study, do a doctorate and participate in the other forms of education, as well as participate in research and development work;
- use of health care services in the states of emergency;
- 37% discount on public transport omnibus, flier and express rail travel;
- free admission to state museums;
- consular assistance in emergency situations.
Pole’s Card and work:
The holder of the Pole’s Card (Polish Charter) is exempted from the obligation to have a work permit and can set up a company on the same basis as citizens of Poland. Additionally, he/she can benefit from the discounts on public transport (railway) and even obtain financial benefits which can be used to partially cover the expenses of living in Poland.
Act on the Pole’s Card:
The full text of the Act on the Pole’s Card can be found here:
http://isap.sejm.gov.pl/isap.nsf/download.xsp/WDU20071801280/U/D20071280Lj.pdf (Polish)
More information on the Polish Charter can be found here:
Polish language for Ukrainians, Belarusians and Russians – Warsaw or online
Polish language lessons for Ukrainians and citizens of other Slavic countries in SJPL are conducted in a slightly different way as our languages are very similar and your progress will be really fast, especially in the beginning of the course. I particularly care about teaching Polish to Ukrainians, Russians and Belarusians due to the fact that I used to work on the eastern side of our border for a couple of years. I also conduct research on this topic in relation to my PhD dissertation. Additionally, I speak Russian, so I understand your needs better.
SJPL offers lessons online or in a classroom. Apply for your Pole’s card today!