Legal Requirements
What Polish Level for Karta Pobytu 2026? (B1/B2 Requirements) | PolishReady
If you are planning to settle in Poland permanently, you will likely need to prove your Polish language skills. Here is a breakdown of the language requirements for permanent residency and citizenship.
Karta Pobytu Stałego (Permanent Residency)
To apply for a Permanent Residence Permit (Karta Pobytu Stałego) in Poland, you must demonstrate Polish language proficiency at the B1 level or higher. The most common way to prove this is by passing the official State Certification Exam in Polish as a Foreign Language.
Polish Citizenship
Similarly, applying for Polish citizenship (Uznanie za obywatela polskiego) requires a B1 Polish language certificate. The language requirement ensures that new citizens can integrate and function independently in Polish society.
Exemptions
You may be exempt from taking the state exam if you have graduated from a school or university in Poland where the language of instruction was Polish, or if you hold a school-leaving certificate from a Polish school abroad. Always verify current exemption rules with your local Urząd Wojewódzki.
Common questions
- Is B1 usually enough for permanent residence?
- B1 is the commonly referenced minimum for Karta Stałego Pobytu and many citizenship paths, and often for EU long-term residence. Your case still depends on current rules and documents. Confirm with the relevant urząd or a qualified adviser — PolishReady does not give legal advice.
- Does PolishReady issue the certificate?
- No. Certificates are issued after passing the official state exam at an authorized center. PolishReady only helps with preparation.
- Where do I register for the certificate exam?
- Register directly with an authorized examination center. Check the center page for dates, fees, available levels, and required documents.
- Can I prepare for B1 online, without a language school?
- Yes. The certificate still comes only from the official exam at an authorised centre. Many candidates prepare independently with exam-format practice. PolishReady is online self-study for B1–C1 — not a school course and not a registration office.
- Can I register for the exam through PolishReady?
- No. Registration is only through authorised examination centres. PolishReady does not book seats, collect exam fees, or issue certificates.
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