Poland Unveils 2025 Changes To C-Type Schengen Visa For Travelers And Job Seekers

• This visa permits people to stay in Poland and other Schengen countries for up to 90 days out of a total of 180 days.

• With the updates coming into force in 2025, international travelers, business visitors, and job seekers will have to conform to new laws.

Poland has recently made significant modifications to its C-Type Schengen Visa, affecting travelers from all over the world.

This visa permits people to stay in Poland and other Schengen countries for up to 90 days out of a total of 180 days.

With the updates coming into force in 2025, international travelers, business visitors, and job seekers will have to conform to new laws.

Notably, this visa is now available to those looking for work in Poland, as the country does not have a specific Job Search Visa.

The improvements, which include higher visa fees, tougher application procedures, and more digitalization of the process, aim to expedite the system while protecting security, according to DAAD Scholarship.

C-Type visa cost increases and new application requirements
According to reports, Poland has doubled the charge for the C-Type Schengen visa. Adult visas will cost €80, while children aged 6 to 12 would pay €40. This increase aligns the cost with new Schengen criteria.

• Along with this, Polish authorities have implemented more severe application procedures. Applicants will be subjected to extensive background checks to avoid abuse of the visa system and to guarantee that visitors are fulfilling the purposes mentioned in their visa applications.

• In addition, the application process for a C-type visa has been digitalized, which means that all paperwork must now be submitted via an internet portal. This attempts to eliminate paperwork and expedite the application process, which has hitherto been lengthy and cumbersome.
  Furthermore, authorities will rigorously monitor short-term visitors to ensure they do not overstay or participate in illicit work throughout their stay.
  
  

Job hunting on a C-Type visa

Although the C-Type Schengen Visa is often used for vacation, business, and visiting family, it is now also an option for individuals considering working in Poland. A C-type visa allows job seekers to attend interviews, network, and investigate prospects in the country.

• However, sources state that it is critical to recognize that this visa does not allow people to legally work in Poland. If a person receives a work offer during their stay, they must leave Poland and apply for a National D-Type Work Visa from their home country.

• The C-type visa does not allow for conversion to a work visa. If a person overstays their 90-day restriction or works illegally while in Poland on a C-type visa, they may risk penalties or a future prohibition from entering the Schengen Area.

Eligibility criteria and application procedures
Applicants seeking a Poland C-Type Schengen visa must meet a number of requirements. This includes:

• Valid passport
• Proof of travel insurance.
• Confirmed travel itinerary
• Proof of accommodation.

In addition, candidates must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to fund their stay in Poland, such as bank statements or sponsorship letters.

• The C-Type visa application process entails completing the Schengen Visa Application Form and acquiring the appropriate supporting documents. Applicants must then make an appointment with the nearest Polish embassy or consulate. First-time applicants will have their biometric data, including fingerprints, collected during the appointment.

• At the time of application, a fee of €80 for adults and €40 for minors must be paid.

Once submitted, the application will be handled, which usually takes 10-15 working days. During peak seasons, processing times may be longer. If granted, the applicant will receive a visa that will allow them to travel to Poland and other Schengen countries within the 180-day timeframe.

What next for C-type visa holders?
With the new rules in place, visitors wanting to visit Poland or other Schengen countries on a C-Type visa should be aware of the changes and plan their trip appropriately. The Polish government’s emphasis on digitalization and greater monitoring seeks to establish a more efficient visa system while maintaining visa compliance.

This marks a substantial shift in Poland’s approach to short-term visitors and demonstrates the country’s commitment to maintaining a balanced and secure immigration system.