Summary: Poland Tourist Visa from India
Visa Type: Schengen Visa (Type C) for tourism, up to 90 days
Eligibility: Indian citizens with a valid passport, sufficient funds, and travel insurance
Processing Time: Typically 10-15 working days; apply at least 2 weeks prior to your trip
Key Requirements: Valid passport, flight itinerary, hotel booking/invitation letter, health/travel insurance, and proof of financial means
Application Process: Submit through Poland VACs in India with required documents and fees (approximately €60 + service fee)
Next Steps After Approval: Double-check visa details, prepare for your trip, and stay updated with travel advisories
Table of Contents
Indians traveling to Poland for tourism, visiting family or friends, or other short-term stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period require a Schengen Visa (Type C). As Poland is part of the Schengen Area, obtaining this visa allows entry into other Schengen countries as well. The processing time usually ranges from 10 to 15 working days but may vary based on individual cases, so it is advisable to apply at least two weeks before the planned trip.
Why Check?: Some Poland Visa Application Centers (VACs) in India might require an appointment to submit your application, while others might accept walk-ins.
How to Check?:
Visit the Official Website:
Go to the website of the Poland Embassy or Consulate in India.
Navigate to the "Visa Application" or "Consular Services" section.
Look for "Appointment Booking" or "Submission Guidelines".
Contact the VAC Directly:
Phone: Call the VAC's customer care number (usually found on their website).
Email: Send an inquiry to the VAC's email address.
In-Person: Visit the VAC (if feasible) to inquire about appointment requirements.
What to Expect?:
Appointment Schedule: If required, book a slot as per the VAC's availability.
Walk-in Details: If no appointment is needed, note the submission timings and any specific instructions.
Preparation:
Ensure all documents are in order (as per the detailed requirements list).
Double-check the VAC's submission guidelines.
At the VAC:
Submission Counter:
Present your application and supporting documents.
Ensure all documents are as per the checklist provided by the VAC.
Verification Process:
VAC staff may verify the submitted documents.
You might be asked questions regarding your application.
Biometric Data Collection (If Applicable).
First-Time Schengen Visa Applicants:
Fingerprint Scanning: A quick and straightforward process.
Digital Photo (if not already submitted with the application).
Authorization Letter Requirements:
Clearly state the friend/relative's name and your relationship.
Specify the purpose of the authorization (Poland Tourist Visa application submission).
Include your and their contact information (phone number and email).
Notarization:
Ensure the letter is notarized by a competent authority in India.
Attach a photocopy of the friend/relative's valid government-issued ID.
Agency Selection:
VAC-Approved List: Check with the Poland VAC in India for a list of approved travel agencies.
Agency’s Role:
Application Submission: On your behalf, with the required authorization.
Biometric Data (If Applicable): The agency will guide you through this process.
Applicability: First-time Schengen visa applicants.
Process:
Fingerprint Scanning:
A quick, digital process capturing your fingerprints.
Privacy Assurance: Data is securely stored for future Schengen visa applications.
Digital Photo (if not already submitted):
Specifications:
Recent, passport-sized.
White background.
Facing forward, full face.
Payment Methods:
In Person at VAC: Cash, Credit/Debit Card, or as specified by the VAC.
Through a Registered Travel Agency: As per the agency's payment guidelines.
Service Fee Inclusions:
Application Processing:
Administrative Costs: Varying by VAC, typically includes:
Application Form Guidance.
Document Verification.
Biometric Data Collection (for first-time applicants).
Payment for Service Fee:
Methods: As specified by the VAC or travel agency.
Amount: Check with the VAC for the exact service fee, as it may fluctuate.
4.5 Track Your Application
Reference Number:
Provided by the VAC: After submitting your application.
Tracking:
Online: Using the reference number on the VAC's website.
Phone/Email: Contacting the VAC directly with your reference number.
Visit the VAC Website.
Navigate to "Track Your Application".
Enter Your Reference Number (provided after submission).
Check Your Application Status:
Submitted: Confirmation of successful application submission.
Under Processing: Application is being reviewed.
Approved/Rejected: Final decision on your Poland Tourist Visa application.
Need more clarity on Poland visa? Check Out Helpful Resources Below
Poland Visa Requirements
Poland Business Visa Requirements
Poland Work Visa Requirements
Poland Visit Visa Requirements
Common Reasons for Visa Rejection
Poland Embassy
Check with the specific VAC for their jurisdiction and requirements.
Indian citizens always require a Schengen visa for tourism.
Extensions are possible under exceptional circumstances. Contact the relevant Polish authorities.
Inform the Polish Embassy/Consulate. Minor changes might not affect your visa validity.
Yes, you are free to travel to any of the Schengen countries with this permit. However, in extreme cases, you may get an LTV (Limited Territory Validity) category of this visa. In this case, you may only visit the Schengen states mentioned specifically on the sticker. With the tourist visa, you can only visit the European countries that are a part of the Schengen. There are a few exceptions to this as a few non-Schengen countries will grant you entry with a Schengen. EG: - Croatia.