Starting June 1, 2024, Poland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has increased the fee for a national visa application (D-type) and the fee for reconsideration of a national visa application from €80 to €135.
This change stems from a new regulation on
consular fees, effective May 21, 2024, and aims to address growing migration
pressures and ensure applicants adhere to their declared purpose of stay.
Key Highlights:
· Effective Date: June 1, 2024
· Old Fee: €80
· New Fee: €135
· Regulation Reference: Journal of Laws of 2024, item 774
Why the Increase?
Poland has been experiencing a consistent
rise in migration pressure. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasizes the
importance of ensuring that foreigners fulfill their declared purpose of stay.
The increased fee is expected to reduce the number of applicants who might
misuse the visa for purposes other than what they declared.
Schengen Visa Fees Remain Unchanged
While the national visa fee has increased,
the Schengen (C-type) visa application fee and the fee for reconsideration of a
Schengen visa application will remain unchanged at €80 for now. However,
discussions among Schengen States suggest a potential increase to €90 in 2024
due to rising administrative costs.
Impact and Expectations
The fee adjustment aims to improve the
availability of visa slots for first-time applicants and reduce the misuse of
national visas. The higher fee reflects the broader range of privileges
associated with the national visa, such as a longer stay period and the ability
to travel within the Schengen area.
By aligning visa fees with the true cost of
processing and the privileges granted, Poland seeks to manage migration more
effectively and ensure that those entering the country are doing so for
legitimate, declared reasons.
