Poland

Restoring Polish Citizenship Lost Before 1999: Who Can Apply, Fees and Timing

Last reviewed against the official sources below: October 31, 2026.

Anyone who held Polish citizenship and lost it before January 1, 1999 under Article 11 or 13 of the 1920 Act, Article 11 or 12 of the 1951 Act, or Article 13, 14 or 15 of the 1962 Act can apply. Source: gov.pl

Where to apply

By post to the Minister of Interior and Administration in Warsaw, or through a Polish consulate if you live abroad. Source: gov.pl

Fee

PLN 1,000 per decision if you live in Poland and apply directly to the minister; at a consulate you pay the consular fee rate. Source: gov.pl

Documents

The application
Proof of identity and nationality
Proof of name changes, if any
Documents you hold confirming the loss of Polish citizenship
A photograph
Sworn or consular translations of foreign documents into Polish

Source: gov.pl

Timing and appeals

The ministry has six months to decide, which can be extended in justified cases. You can ask for reconsideration in writing within 14 days, then go to an administrative court within 30 days. You can't include your children in the application. Source: gov.pl

← All guides

General information only. This site is not legal advice and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any government or government agency. Rules change. Always confirm with the official sources linked on each page before you apply.