South Africans who wish to travel to Poland have to apply for a visa before they can be allowed into the country. A Polish visa is the only travel document that gives foreign nationals legal access to Poland for long or short stays. Are you planning to apply for a single-entry or multiple-entry visa? This page contains all the information you will need to successfully apply for and obtain a visa for Poland. A Polish visa for tourism can also be applied for online via VisaHQ.
Traveling To Poland From South Africa
South Africans who wish to visit Poland can do so with a valid visa. Poland is officially called the Republic of Poland and is located in Eastern Europe. The country had 16 administrative sub-divisions and is the sixth most populated country in Europe, with more than 38 million people. This is one country with an illustrious history with its great capital city, Warsaw, that attracts tourists from different parts of the globe. However, Poland is more than its capital as it has more than a dozen UNESCO Heritage Sites. It also has rich vegetation like valleys, lakes, hills, mountain ranges, ancient forests, and beaches tourists can explore to relax. Overall, Poland which is a Schengen country is a beautiful country with a rich culture and history worth experiencing.
South African students who want to school outside South Africa may consider Poland as their schools charge some of the lowest tuition fees in Europe. Their health care system is also advanced, with experienced doctors and world-class facilities.
Types Of Poland Visa South African Citizens
Here are the types of Poland visas South Africans can apply for.
Tourist Visa: The tourist visa is essentially for tourism and is valid for 90 days but allows the holder to stay for up to 30 days. If you obtain this visa, you can visit any part of Poland for sightseeing or spend your vacation. Those who apply at the Polish embassy must wait 15 working days to obtain the visa.
Transit Visa: Transit visas are for those who are traveling to another country just to plan to make brief stops in Poland. This visa is valid for only 5 days maximum, and the holder can stay in Poland for one or two days, after which they must board their flight to their destination.
Business Visa: This one is for those coming to Poland to attend a meeting or for business events. It is useful for only commercial activity, but the holder is not allowed to work in Poland. It is valid for 90 days.
Student Visa: South African students who obtain admission into a Polish university or college may apply for this visa. Study visas are valid for as long as the program will last, and it qualifies the holder for work or resident permit.
Work Visa: A Work visa is for those who have secured employment in Poland. The applicant must have secured the job before they apply for the visa. Work visas are valid for 2 years or more.
Schengen Visa: This is a special Visa for Schengen visitors. South Africans who obtain this visa from the Polish in Pretoria may visit any other Schengen nation as long the visa is valid. The visa is a multi-nation visa.
Why Do South Africans Need A Visa?
South Africans need a visa because South Africa is not a visa-exempt lost and is not a member of the European Union or a Schengen zone. Only citizens from countries in three categories may enter Poland without a visa.
How To Apply For A Polish Visa
South Africans who wish to apply for this visa can do it online or submit their application at the embassy. Kindly note that most visa applications are for Schengen countries are directed to the embassy, but business or tourist visas may also be applied for online. Here are the steps to take to complete an online visa application form.
Visit VisaHQ. Choose Poland as your destination
Choose South Africa as your country of citizenship
Select the visa you want
Upload all the required documents
Pay the visa fee
Submit for processing
If your application is accepted, the authorities will send the visa to your registered email, which you must print out and bring to Poland. The immigration officers on duty will review the visa and other documents before stamping your passport to let you in.
General Poland Visa Requirements
Find below a list of documents you must attach to your completed and signed application form.
Valid passport with at least three months validity from your intended exit date. It must have at least two blank pages
2 colored photographs
Proof of funds
Proof of accommodation
Travel medical insurance (€30,000 minimum)
Proof of sponsorship where required
Cover letter
Reserved return flight ticket