Record number of foreigners obtained Polish citizenship in 2024

The number of foreigners granted Polish citizenship in 2024 has almost quadrupled compared to 2012. Last year, Poland saw the largest increase in the number of foreign-born citizens in more than a decade, due to record levels of migration.

More than half of those who obtained Polish citizenship were Ukrainians. The next largest groups were Belarusians, Russians, Vietnamese, Bolivians, Armenians and Turks. An increasing number of Israelis are also applying for Polish citizenship, especially in the wake of the 7 October attacks and their aftermath. The number of Israelis who applied for citizenship on the basis of their origin rose from around 2,500 in 2021 to more than 9,000 in 2024.

In March, Jesse Eisenberg, the American actor and director of the film “A Real Pain” and a descendant of Polish Jews, was granted Polish citizenship at a ceremony attended by former president Andrzej Duda. This week, former Russian speed skating champion Vladimir Semirunniy, who fled to Poland after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, received citizenship from president Karol Nawrocki. He will now be able to represent Poland at the upcoming Winter Olympics.

How can foreigners obtain Polish citizenship?

In the case of descendants of Polish citizens, such as Jesse Eisenberg, citizenship can be obtained by presenting proof of at least one direct Polish ancestor, such as a grandfather or great-grandfather. Documents proving the ancestor’s Polish citizenship, such as a birth certificate or marriage certificate, are required. It is also necessary to show that the descendant did not lose Polish citizenship during their lifetime, for example, as a result of acquiring foreign citizenship or serving in a foreign army.

Persons wishing to acquire Polish citizenship without using the path of descent can do so in one of two ways. One requires applicants to demonstrate a stable income, own their own home and have knowledge of the Polish language, as well as meeting a minimum period of residence in Poland. Usually this period is three years, although it can be shorter for spouses of Polish citizens. President Karol Nawrocki has proposed extending this period to 10 years, as part of his platform promise tougher reforms on migration.

Polish citizenship can also be obtained by applying directly to the president of the Republic of Poland. In such a case, it is necessary to present documents confirming the applicant’s relationship with Poland. Applicants must also tell their personal stories and justify the reasons for applying for citizenship. In 2024, then-president Andrzej Duda granted 1,514 citizenships in this way.