Academic mobility is exciting, but it naturally brings up a lot of questions. Where will I live? How do I legalize my stay? Can I open a bank account? …and the list goes on.
To help you find the answers, we have prepared a comprehensive list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs). You can also find plenty of detailed, practical information in our dedicated sections: “Before Mobility”, “Upon Arrival and Stay”, and “Useful Information”, as well as additional resources available here.
If your questions go beyond the topics covered here, please do not hesitate to contact our Welcome Point Team – we are always here to assist you.
I’m struggling with filling out the Polish forms – what should I do?
Don’t worry! We know that filling out official documents in a different language can be a real challenge – we’re here to help. Our Welcome Point provides free assistance to walk you through it. Just check our calendar to schedule an appointment with our team!
Do I need to have a visa to enter Poland?
Some non-EU citizens may be required to obtain a visa. To find out what entrance conditions apply to you, please check information on visas to Poland.
When do I need to apply for the visa?
Since visa requirements vary depending on your home country, we recommend checking the official entrance conditions as early as possible. Some non-EU citizens will need a visa before arrival, so it’s best to get a head start on the paperwork!
How do I apply for studies at CUT?
You can find everything you need – including the admissions schedule, entry requirements, and document checklists – right over in our Information for Candidates section.
Do I need health insurance?
Yes, having health insurance is essential and a mandatory requirement for everyone living in Poland. For your visa, your policy should provide coverage of at least €30,000 and be valid for your entire stay. Once you are here, you also have the option to sign an individual insurance agreement with the Polish National Health Fund (NFZ).
Which insurance option is the best?
The Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs provides an official list of insurers and policies that fully meet statutory legal conditions.
Can I drive in Poland with my current driving license?
In most cases – yes! If your license was issued in an EU/EFTA country, you’re all set. If you’re from outside the EU, your license is usually valid for the first 6 months of your stay. After that, you’ll likely need to exchange it for a Polish one. If your license doesn’t follow international standards, it’s a good idea to carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside your original.
Should I bring my original documents with me?
While you’ll often apply with scans, the university will need to see your original diplomas, transcripts, and translations in person to finalize your enrollment. We also recommend keeping a few physical passport-sized photos and your original insurance policy handy – they always come in useful!
Can I open a bank account before I arrive?
Most Polish banks require you to visit a branch in person to verify your ID and provide a local address. However, once you arrive, the process is very fast! You’ll just need your passport and proof of your student status. Some banks might ask for a PESEL number, but many will let you open an account without one as long as you provide it later.
How do I get an ID Number (PESEL)?
If you register your address (Meldunek) for a stay longer than 30 days, you will get your PESEL number automatically. If you aren’t able to register your address yet but need the number for tax or health insurance reasons, you can apply for it at any Municipal Office. It’s free and usually issued on the spot!
Do I need to register my address with the local municipality?
Yes, registering your residence is a standard requirement in Poland. If you are from a non-EU country, you should register within your first 4 days here. EU citizens have a bit more time – up to 30 days after arrival (if their stay exceeds 3 months). You can visit a Kraków City Council office with your rental agreement, ID, and the required form. You can also complete this online, but we recommend checking in with the International Relations Office first so we can provide you with more information on the process.
Important note!
Don’t confuse EU Residence Registration (done at the Provincial Office at Przy Rondzie) with Address Registration (Zameldowanie, which is done at the local Kraków City Hall). If you stay in Poland, you will eventually need to do both!
Do I need to register my residence as an EU Citizen?
Yes, if you plan to stay in Poland for longer than 3 months, registering your residence is a legal requirement. You must submit your application in person no later than the last day of your first 3 months here. To do this, you must book an appointment at the Małopolska Provincial Office (Małopolski Urząd Wojewódzki, located at ul. Przy Rondzie 6) by sending a booking template to ue@muw.pl. Once your date is confirmed, you will need to show up to the appointment in person with your completed application form (filled out in Polish), your passport/ID and other supporting documents (full list can be found here).
If you need help filling out the form, please reach out to the International Relations Office or our Welcome Point team so we can support you through the process!
Important note!
Don’t confuse EU Residence Registration (done at the Provincial Office at Przy Rondzie) with Address Registration (Zameldowanie, which is done at the local Kraków City Hall). If you stay in Poland, you will eventually need to do both!
What are the emergency numbers in Poland?
In any life-threatening situation or emergency, you can dial the universal European emergency number from any phone: 112 – Universal Emergency Number (English-speaking operators available).
For specific services, you can also use these direct lines:
999 – Emergency Medical Services (Ambulance)
998 – Fire Department
997 – Police
986 – Municipal Police (Straż Miejska – helpful for local city issues in Kraków)
Technical & Utility Emergencies
If you encounter an issue with your apartment utilities, these specialized lines are available:
991 – Energy/Electrical Emergency
992 – Gas Emergency
993 – Heating Emergency
994 – Water and Sewage Emergency
Technical & Utility Emergencies
If you encounter an issue with your apartment utilities, these specialized lines are available:
991 – Energy/Electrical Emergency
992 – Gas Emergency
993 – Heating Emergency
994 – Water and Sewage Emergency
Specialized Rescue & Mental Health Support
If you are exploring Poland or need someone to talk to, keep these numbers handy:
601 100 300 – Mountain Rescue (GOPR/TOPR)
601 100 100 – Water Rescue (WOPR)
116 123 – Crisis Helpline (Psychological support for adults)
800 702 222 – ITAKA Support Center (For those in a psychological crisis)
Do I need to get my foreign degree officially recognized?
It depends on where your degree is from. Many diplomas from EU, OECD or EFTA countries are recognized automatically. For others, you might need an “Eligibility Statement” or a formal recognition from NAWA (the National Agency for Academic Exchange). Don’t worry, though – we can check your specific documents and let you know if any extra steps are needed!
Where can I find local language courses?
If you’re looking to sharpen your Polish, the International Centre of Education at CUT offers fantastic intensive preparatory courses. Whether you’re starting from scratch or preparing for full-time studies in Polish, they have you covered!
Am I allowed to work on a student visa?
You can legally take on a job while staying in Poland on a student visa.
