-- main --
### title
Polish Citizenship

### summary
[💬](B1|Language)
[⏱️](6–12 months|Processing)
[💰](2,800-3,500 PLN|Total cost)

### description
Polish citizenship is the final step in the legalisation process, granting you full rights as a Polish citizen including voting rights, EU citizenship, and the ability to live and work anywhere in the European Union. There are five primary pathways: recognition as a Polish citizen (administrative route), grant by the President (discretionary), citizenship by descent, citizenship by marriage, and restoration for those who previously held Polish citizenship.

> Citizenship applications require at least 3 years of permanent residence, B1 Polish language level, and demonstration of integration. The process takes 6-12 months for recognition, 12-24 months for presidential grant. Poland grants citizenship to approximately 3,000 people annually. The most common paths are through residence (60%), descent (25%), and marriage to Polish citizens (15%). Naturalization success rate is around 85%.

> Recognition follows statutory criteria and is decided by the voivode. Grant is a discretionary decision by the President considering exceptional contributions or humanitarian reasons. Presidential approval rate is approximately 83%.

### helper

### Pathways to citizenship

**1. Recognition as Polish Citizen (Administrative Route)**
Most common pathway for foreign residents seeking citizenship through integration. Six distinct criteria available; must meet at least one:

- **Standard residence:** 3 years continuous permanent residence, stable income, legal housing
- **Marriage route:** 3 years married to Polish citizen + 2 years permanent residence
- **Refugee status:** Permanent residence based on refugee status + 2 years residence
- **Long-term residents:** 10 years continuous residence + permanent residence permit
- **Minors:** Under 18 with Polish parent(s) and consent

Special categories with reduced timelines:
- **Karta Polaka holders:** Only 1 year permanent residence, fee exemption
- **EU Blue Card holders:** 3 years residence (reduced from 5)
- **Stateless persons:** 2 years residence, no income/housing requirements

**2. Grant by the President**
Discretionary pathway with no specific requirements. No residency, language, or integration prerequisites. Evaluation considers family situation, employment history, social/civic activities, cultural contributions, and community integration. Processing time: 12-24 months. Free of charge. Success rate: 83%.

**3. Citizenship by Descent (Jus Sanguinis)**
For those with Polish ancestry (parent, grandparent, or great-grandparent). Ancestor must have held Polish citizenship after 1920. Processing: 12-24 months. Citizenship considered granted from birth. Often qualifies for dual citizenship.

**4. Citizenship by Marriage**
After 3 years of continuous marriage to Polish citizen + 2 years uninterrupted permanent residence. Must pass B1 language exam. Same-sex marriages not recognized in Poland. Total pathway: 4-5 years typically.

**5. Restoration**
For those who previously held Polish citizenship and lost it. Processing varies by case complexity.

### required documents

**Identity and residence documents**
Photocopy of valid passport or travel document
---
Photocopy of permanent residence permit or EU long-term resident permit
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Copy of residence registration (meldunek) from local municipality
---
**Civil status documents**
Birth certificate
issued within last 3 months, or certified copy
---
Marriage certificate
if applicable, issued within last 3 months
---
Divorce decree
if applicable
---
Death certificate of former spouse
if applicable
---
**Language and integration**
B1 Polish language certificate
from State Commission, or diploma from Polish educational institution
---
History and culture exam certificate
required for some pathways; may become mandatory in future
---
Detailed CV in Polish
summarising your stay and integration
---
**Financial documentation**
Employment contract or business registration documents
---
Last 3 months payslips or business income statements
---
Bank statements
showing regular deposits
---
Tax returns (PIT)
for past year
---
Proof of health insurance
---
**Housing documentation**
Rental agreement
with landlord confirmation
---
Mortgage/property deed
if homeowner
---
Cohabitation agreement
if living with family member who owns property
---
Certificate of registration (meldunek)
from municipality showing address
---
**Background checks**
Police clearance certificate from home country
not older than 3 months, apostilled if non-EU
---
Police clearance certificate from Poland
if available
---
**Additional documents**
Educational diplomas and certificates
translated into Polish
---
Professional licenses or qualifications
---
Employment history documents
---
Character references
from employer or community members
---
35x45 mm passport photos
---
Sworn translations
all foreign documents must be translated by sworn translator (tłumacz przysięgły)
---
Apostille/legalisation
all non-EU documents must be apostilled or legalized through Polish consulate

### Step-by-step process

**Step 1: Obtain Temporary Residence Permit (TRC)**
Timeline: 60 days standard; 2-6 months typical processing. Cost: PLN 440 (approximately €95). Apply at regional voivodeship office where you reside. Typical grounds: employment, study, family reunification, marriage to Polish citizen, business purposes.

**Step 2: Convert to Permanent Residence Permit (PR)**
Timeline: Generally within 60 days standard; 2-6 months typical. Duration of TRC before applying: standard route 3 years, married to Polish citizen 2 years, EU Blue Card 3 years, Karta Polaka holder 1 year. Cost: PLN 640 (approximately €170). Important: Cannot be absent from Poland more than 6 months consecutively or 10 months total during residence period.

**Step 3: Obtain Polish Language Certificate (B1 Level)**
Timeline: Typically 1-2 months from exam to certification; results available 4-5 months after exam. Cost: Approximately PLN 700-800 (€185-210) for exam plus PLN 100 (€27) for certificate. Exam structure: 5 sections (listening, reading, grammar, writing, speaking). Passing requirements: Minimum 50% in each individual section; failure in any section means retaking entire exam. Results valid indefinitely. Alternative: Diploma from Polish educational institution with Polish-language instruction.

**Step 4: Prepare Documentation Package**
Timeline: 1-3 months for document gathering and translation. Ensure all documents are translated by sworn translator (PLN 45-100 per page). Non-EU documents must be apostilled. Birth certificates must be issued within last 3 months.

**Step 5: Submit Application to Voivodeship Office**
Submit to voivodeship governor (wojewoda) of your residence region, in person or by registered mail. Application form: "Wniosek o uznanie cudzoziemca za obywatela" (for recognition) or "Wniosek o nadanie obywatelstwa polskiego" (for presidential grant). Application fee: PLN 219 (approximately €59) for recognition, free for presidential grant. Payment: Transfer to account specified on voivodeship website. If applicant has children aged 16-18: obtain their written consent.

**Step 6: Review and Decision Process**
Timeline: 12-24 months typical for recognition; up to 36 months for complex cases. Presidential grant: 12-24 months. Factors affecting processing: administrative workload, completeness of application, background checks, document verification, security clearance procedures. During processing: background security check, verification of documents with foreign authorities, income and financial stability verification, housing verification, criminal record check, integration assessment.

**Step 7: Oath Taking (If Approved)**
Mandatory ceremonial oath at voivodeship office. Contents: pledge loyalty to Polish state, commitment to uphold Polish constitution and laws, promise to respect Polish values and culture, declaration of voluntary acceptance of citizenship. Duration: Brief formal ceremony (approximately 10-15 minutes). Documentation received: citizenship certificate (zaświadczenie o nadaniu obywatelstwa), PESEL number (Polish national identification number), confirmation for passport application.

### Eligibility criteria

**Recognition as Polish Citizen - Six Criteria (must meet at least one):**

**Criterion 1: Standard Residence and Integration**
- Continuous residence: Minimum 3 years based on permanent residence permit, EU long-term resident permit, or right of permanent residence
- Stable income: Demonstrated regular and stable source of income in Poland
- Housing: Legal right to occupy a residential unit (ownership or rental)

**Criterion 2: Marriage to a Polish Citizen**
- Marital status: Married to a Polish citizen for at least 3 years (continuously)
- Residence duration: Minimum 2 years based on permanent residence permit, EU long-term resident permit, or right of permanent residence
- Note: Same-sex marriages are not recognized in Poland; only heterosexual marriages qualify

**Criterion 3: Refugee Status**
- Legal status: Granted permanent residence permit based on refugee status
- Continuous residence: Minimum 2 years on this refugee-based permanent residence permit
- Language requirement: B1-level Polish proficiency certificate still required

**Criterion 4: Minors with Polish Parent(s)**
- Age: Under 18 years old
- Residence: Based on permanent residence permit, EU long-term resident permit, or right of permanent residence
- Parental status: At least one parent holds Polish citizenship
- Consent: The other parent (without Polish citizenship) must consent in writing

**Criterion 5: Minors with Restored Polish Citizenship Parent**
- Age: Under 18 years old
- Residence: Based on permanent residence permit, EU long-term resident permit, or right of permanent residence
- Parental status: At least one parent has had Polish citizenship restored
- Consent: The other parent (without Polish citizenship) must consent in writing

**Criterion 6: Long-term Residents (Extended Timeline)**
- Continuous residence: Minimum 10 years (any legal basis)
- Permanent residence: Must hold a permanent residence permit, EU long-term resident permit, or right of permanent residence
- Financial stability: Stable and regular source of income
- Housing: Legal right to occupy a residential unit

### Financial requirements

**Income threshold**
No specific minimum salary set in law. Voivodeship offices assess case-by-case. Typically requirement equivalent to minimum or average wages in Poland. Must be sufficient to support applicant.

**Acceptable documentation:**
- Employment contract and recent payslips (last 3 months minimum)
- Tax return (PIT) for previous year
- Business registration and income documentation
- Pension statements
- Investment income statements
- Spouse's or family member's financial support (documented)
- Bank statements showing regular deposits
- Unemployment benefit documentation (in some cases)

**Income verification process:**
Bank statements analyzed for regular deposits, employment verification with employer, tax records cross-checked with Tax Office, pension benefits confirmed with Social Insurance Institution, self-employment income assessed through business documentation.

### Housing requirements

**Proof of accommodation**
Acceptable documentation: lease agreement with landlord, mortgage/property deed (if homeowner), letter from property owner confirming your residence, cohabitation agreement with family member who owns property, certificate of registration (meldunek) from municipality showing address.

No minimum size or amenities specified; requirement is simply legal right to occupy residential space. What does NOT qualify: temporary accommodation (hotel, hostel), student dormitory (may be acceptable in specific cases), sleeping at multiple addresses without formal lease.

Voivodeship offices may verify: whether lease is for extended period (not month-to-month), whether housing arrangement is stable, whether applicant likely to maintain residence.

### Timeline summary

**Fastest route (married to Polish citizen):**
Total time: 4-5 years minimum. Components: 2 years on temporary residence permit, 1 year Polish language study and exam, document preparation and submission 2 months, application processing 2-12 months.

**Standard route (general migrants):**
Total time: 5-6 years minimum. Components: 3 years on temporary residence permit, Polish language study and B1 exam 1 year, conversion to permanent residence 2-6 months, document preparation 2-3 months, application processing 12-24 months.

**Karta Polaka route:**
Total time: 2-3 years. Components: 1 year on permanent residence, Polish language 1 year, application processing 12-18 months.

**Citizenship by descent:**
Total time: 1-3 years. Components: document gathering 3-6 months, application processing 12-24 months.

**Critical processing delays:**
Masovian Voivodeship office handling all foreign applications experiences severe backlogs (12+ months wait time). Document verification: cross-border verification with consulates can add 3-6 months. Background checks: security and criminal record verification can extend timeline by 2-4 months. Incomplete applications: requesting additional documents or corrections can add 2-3 months per round.

### Terms and costs

**Government fees:**
- Temporary Residence Permit: PLN 440 (approximately €118)
- Permanent Residence Permit: PLN 640 (approximately €172)
- Polish Language B1 Exam: PLN 700-800 (€188-215)
- Polish Language Certificate: PLN 100 (€27)
- Citizenship Application (Recognition): PLN 219 (€59)
- Citizenship Application (Presidential Grant): Free
- Residence Card: PLN 50-100 (€13-27)
- Apostille per document: PLN 60 (€16)
- **Total typical cost: PLN 2,800-3,500 (€750-940)**

**Additional professional costs (optional but recommended):**
- Immigration lawyer consultation: PLN 300-600 per hour (€80-160)
- Document translation: PLN 45-100 per page (€12-27)
- Document gathering/archival research: PLN 500-2,000 (€135-540)
- Citizenship consultant fees: PLN 2,000-5,000 (€540-1,350)
- Criminal record certificates: PLN 100-300 (€25-75)

### Documents and translations

**Translation requirements:**
All documents not in Polish must be translated by sworn translator (tłumacz przysięgły). Non-EU documents must be apostilled or legalized through Polish consulate. Cost: Approximately PLN 45-100 per page for translation.

**Civil status documents:**
Birth, marriage, divorce certificates must be transcribed into the Polish registry if not already registered. Foreign documents often require apostille/legalisation and sworn translations into Polish. Birth certificates must be issued within last 3 months for citizenship application.

### Criminal record considerations

**Automatic disqualification:** No. Case-by-case assessment: Yes.

**Factors considered:**
Type and severity of offense, time elapsed since offense, whether conviction has been expunged, applicant's behavior since conviction, nature of crime (violent, property, financial, etc.), whether crime was committed in Poland or abroad.

Supreme Administrative Court ruling (2024): A conviction does not automatically mean applicant poses threat to state security or public order; each case must be individually assessed. Recommendation: If you have a criminal record, consult an immigration lawyer before applying.

### After approval

Take the oath at the voivodeship office. Then apply for a PESEL update (if needed), Polish ID (dowód osobisty), and passport. Update banks, ZUS, and tax office with your new status. Register foreign birth certificate at Polish civil registry (1-3 months), then apply for passport at consulate (2-4 weeks processing).

### Citizenship Benefits

**Full rights**
Vote in all elections, hold public office
---
**EU citizenship**
Live and work anywhere in European Union
---
**Passport**
Travel to 180+ countries visa-free
---
**Social benefits**
Full access to Polish social security system
---
**Education**
Free education at all levels
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**Healthcare**
Full access to public healthcare system
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**Security**
Polish citizens cannot be deported and receive full consular protection abroad
---
**Dual citizenship**
Poland allows dual citizenship; you can retain original nationality

### Proposed changes (2025 and beyond)

**Status:** Draft law proposed October 2025; not yet enacted.

**Proposed requirements:**
- Citizenship test: Exam conducted twice yearly, three-part structure (Polish history and social relations, current events, Polish language proficiency at B2 level - raised from B1). Passing score: 50% minimum overall.
- Extended residence period: 8-10 years (3 years temporary residence + 5-7 years permanent residence). Shorter for certain categories (Karta Polaka holders, refugees, spouses).
- Oath of loyalty: Written declaration pledging loyalty to Polish state, commitment to uphold constitutional order, promise to comply with Polish law, declaration of respect for Polish culture and values.
- Tax residency requirement: Applicants must maintain Polish tax residency during entire residence period. No more than 183 days outside Poland per tax year.

**Implementation timeline:**
Draft law expected on Government Legislation Centre website (late 2025/early 2026). Parliamentary review and debate expected 2026. Potential entry into force: 2026-2027. Transition provisions: May allow pending applications under old rules.

**Recommendation for current applicants:**
If considering citizenship application: Current rules (3-year residence, B1 language, no exam) likely to apply to applications submitted before law change. Advantage to applying sooner rather than later under existing criteria. New requirements expected to be stricter and more time-consuming.

### common mistakes

**Applying before meeting time requirements**
Wait until you have the full period of permanent residence and marriage (if applicable)
---
**Skipping language preparation**
B1 level requires significant study time; book the exam well in advance
---
**Ignoring integration evidence**
Collect certificates from employers, schools, NGOs, and community groups
---
**Forgetting criminal record certificates**
Provide originals from Poland and your country of origin, apostilled/legalised and translated into Polish
---
**Assuming automatic approval**
Each case is evaluated individually; decisions are discretionary
---
**Using unofficial translations**
All documents must be translated by sworn translator (tłumacz przysięgły); unofficial translations rejected
---
**Missing apostille on non-EU documents**
All non-EU documents must be apostilled or legalized through Polish consulate
---
**Exceeding absence limits during residence**
Cannot be absent from Poland more than 6 months consecutively or 10 months total during residence period
---
**Submitting incomplete applications**
Missing documents or incorrect information can add 2-3 months per round of corrections
---
**Not maintaining financial stability**
Income drops during application process should be reported immediately; rejection likely if stability cannot be demonstrated

### pro tips

**Start language learning early**
Begin B1 preparation 1–2 years before applying
---
**Get involved in community**
Volunteer, join local groups, participate in cultural events
---
**Keep perfect records**
Maintain clean legal and financial history
---
**Learn about Polish culture**
Understanding traditions and history helps with integration
---
**Save money**
Citizenship process can be expensive, plan your budget
---
**Gather documents early**
Begin collecting documents 6 months before planned application
---
**Consult immigration lawyer**
Consider professional assistance for complex situations, criminal record issues, or disputed rejections
---
**Track deadlines**
Note all important dates and deadlines
---
**Maintain residence**
Don't exceed allowed absences from Poland
---
**Report changes promptly**
Inform voivodeship of job changes, address changes, or family changes

### checklist

**Before starting permanent residence process**
Valid passport (must be valid for entire process)
---
Employment contract or business registration
---
Rental agreement or property deed
---
Health insurance documentation
---
Bank account with active transactions
---
**For permanent residence application**
TRC extension/conversion form
---
Last 3 months payslips
---
Tax return from previous year
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Employment contract (min 6 months remaining)
---
Residential proof (recent utility bill or rental agreement)
---
Polish translation of documents (if needed)
---
**For Polish language exam**
Registration confirmation
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Valid identification
---
Exam center instructions
---
**For citizenship application**
Birth certificate (dated within last 3 months)
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Marriage certificate (if applicable, within 3 months)
---
Divorce/death certificates (if applicable)
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B1 Polish language certificate
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Police clearance from home country (within 3 months)
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Employment contract and recent payslips
---
Housing documentation
---
Proof of fee payment
---
Curriculum vitae
---
Residence permit copy
---
Certified Polish translations of all foreign documents
---
Apostilles on all non-EU documents
---
Character references (employer, community member)

### Frequently asked questions

**Q: Can I apply for citizenship while my TRC is being converted to PR?**
A: No. You must have permanent residence permit in hand before applying for citizenship. Do not submit application while conversion is pending.

**Q: What if my B1 exam result arrives after I submit citizenship application?**
A: Include the result in your application package. If already submitted, submit result as supplementary documentation immediately upon receipt.

**Q: Can my family members apply with me?**
A: No. Each person must submit individual application. However, minors under 16 are automatically included in parental application. Those 16-18 must provide written consent.

**Q: What happens if my income drops below requirement during application?**
A: Notify voivodeship office immediately. Rejection likely if financial stability cannot be demonstrated. Employment change should be reported.

**Q: Can I work while my citizenship application is pending?**
A: Yes. Your permanent residence permit allows unlimited employment rights.

**Q: Is military service required after obtaining citizenship?**
A: Males aged 18-28 may be subject to military service obligations (unless exempt). Females are not subject to mandatory service.

**Q: Do I need to renounce my original citizenship?**
A: No. Poland allows dual citizenship. You can retain original nationality while acquiring Polish citizenship.

**Q: What if my application is rejected?**
A: You have 14 days to file written appeal to Minister of Interior. Appeal must include reasons for disagreement and supporting documentation addressing rejection grounds.

**Q: Can I reapply if rejected?**
A: Yes, after addressing the grounds for rejection. Typically waiting at least 6-12 months before reapplication recommended.

**Q: How quickly can I get Polish passport after citizenship approval?**
A: After citizenship certificate received, you must register foreign birth certificate at Polish civil registry (1-3 months), then apply for passport at consulate (2-4 weeks processing).

### addresses
[Voivodeship Offices (Urząd Wojewódzki)](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Urz%C4%85d%20Wojew%C3%B3dzki%2C%20Poland)

### links
[Ministry of Interior](https://www.gov.pl/web/mswia/obywatelstwo-polskie)
[Citizenship Application](https://www.gov.pl/web/mswia/wnioski-o-obywatelstwo)
[State Commission for Certification of Proficiency in Polish](https://www.certyfikatpolski.pl/)
[Office for Foreigners](https://www.gov.pl/web/udsc)
[Polish Immigration Information](https://migrant.info.pl/)
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cities:
- Warsaw
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### addresses
[Mazowiecki Urząd Wojewódzki w Warszawie](https://maps.app.goo.gl/XsiZaTwrBMHs6JpA6)
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-- specific --
-- conditions --
cities:
- Katowice
-- end conditions --
### addresses
[Urząd Wojewódzki in Katowice](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Urz%C4%85d%20Wojew%C3%B3dzki%2C%20Katowice)
-- end specific --

-- specific --
-- conditions --
cities:
- Rzeszow
-- end conditions --
### addresses
[Urząd Wojewódzki in Rzeszów](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Urz%C4%85d%20Wojew%C3%B3dzki%2C%20Rzesz%C3%B3w)
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-- specific --
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cities:
- Poznan
-- end conditions --
### addresses
[Urząd Wojewódzki in Poznań](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Urz%C4%85d%20Wojew%C3%B3dzki%2C%20Pozna%C5%84)
-- end specific --

-- specific --
-- conditions --
cities:
- Olsztyn
-- end conditions --
### addresses
[Urząd Wojewódzki in Olsztyn](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Urz%C4%85d%20Wojew%C3%B3dzki%2C%20Olsztyn)
-- end specific --

-- specific --
-- conditions --
cities:
- Gdansk
-- end conditions --
### addresses
[Urząd Wojewódzki in Gdańsk](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Urz%C4%85d%20Wojew%C3%B3dzki%2C%20Gda%C5%84sk)
-- end specific --

-- specific --
-- conditions --
cities:
- Lodz
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### addresses
[Urząd Wojewódzki in Łódź](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Urz%C4%85d%20Wojew%C3%B3dzki%2C%20%C5%81%C3%B3d%C5%BA)
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-- specific --
-- conditions --
cities:
- Lublin
-- end conditions --
### addresses
[Urząd Wojewódzki in Lublin](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Urz%C4%85d%20Wojew%C3%B3dzki%2C%20Lublin)
-- end specific --

-- specific --
-- conditions --
cities:
- Bydgoszcz
-- end conditions --
### addresses
[Urząd Wojewódzki in Bydgoszcz](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Urz%C4%85d%20Wojew%C3%B3dzki%2C%20Bydgoszcz)
-- end specific --

-- specific --
-- conditions --
cities:
- Szczecin
-- end conditions --
### addresses
[Urząd Wojewódzki in Szczecin](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Urz%C4%85d%20Wojew%C3%B3dzki%2C%20Szczecin)
-- end specific --

-- specific --
-- conditions --
cities:
- Bialystok
-- end conditions --
### addresses
[Urząd Wojewódzki in Białystok](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Urz%C4%85d%20Wojew%C3%B3dzki%2C%20Bia%C5%82ystok)
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-- specific --
-- conditions --
cities:
- Gorzow Wielkopolski
-- end conditions --
### addresses
[Urząd Wojewódzki in Gorzów Wielkopolski](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Urz%C4%85d%20Wojew%C3%B3dzki%2C%20Gorz%C3%B3w%20Wielkopolski)
-- end specific --

-- specific --
-- conditions --
cities:
- Opole
-- end conditions --
### addresses
[Urząd Wojewódzki in Opole](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Urz%C4%85d%20Wojew%C3%B3dzki%2C%20Opole)
-- end specific --

-- specific --
-- conditions --
cities:
- Kielce
-- end conditions --
### addresses
[Urząd Wojewódzki in Kielce](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Urz%C4%85d%20Wojew%C3%B3dzki%2C%20Kielce)
-- end specific --

-- specific --
-- conditions --
cities:
- Wroclaw
-- end conditions --
### addresses
[Urząd Wojewódzki in Wrocław](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Urz%C4%85d%20Wojew%C3%B3dzki%2C%20Wroc%C5%82aw)
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-- specific --
-- conditions --
cities:
- Krakow
-- end conditions --
### addresses
[Urząd Wojewódzki in Kraków](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Urz%C4%85d%20Wojew%C3%B3dzki%2C%20Krak%C3%B3w)
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