Embassy of Poland in Kiev

An embassy is a diplomatic mission of one country to another, playing a key role in maintaining and developing interstate relations. The Polish Embassy in Kyiv has been strengthening ties between Poland and Ukraine since Ukraine's independence in 1991. It is not just a place to seek consular assistance, but an important center for the development of cultural, economic and political relations between the two countries, which is especially important in times of war.

Functions of the embassy

Embassies and consulates offer a variety of services such as visa and passport processing, consular assistance in difficult situations, and information and educational programs. This is how things usually work:

1. Visa and passport processing. The process of obtaining a visa includes selecting the appropriate type of visa, filling out an electronic application form, paying the visa fee, making an appointment for an interview, preparing documents (passport, photos, documents confirming the purpose of travel), interview at the embassy and waiting for a decision. The cost of visa varies depending on the type and country.
2. Consular assistance. Embassies can help in emergency situations such as lost documents, misdemeanors, arrests, or serious accidents. The consular section is dedicated to supporting its citizens by assisting in difficult and emergency situations abroad.
3. Information and educational programs. Many embassies offer information on educational programs, scholarships, exchanges, and events that promote cultural and scientific exchange between countries. For example, the U.S. Embassy in Kazakhstan works to promote bilateral and regional cooperation, including commercial relations, democracy, humanitarian assistance, and educational programs.

Contact information and specific services may vary from embassy to embassy, so it is important to check all details in advance on the official website or by phone.

What you can find out at the embassy

Poland's embassies and consulates offer a wealth of information about the country, including information about culture, education, business, and tips for travelers and migrants. Here's what you can usually find out:

1. Culture and Education. The embassy can provide information about the education system in Poland, including opportunities for international students, cultural exchanges and scholarships. You can also find out about events that allow you to learn more about Polish culture.
2. Business. Information on how to start a business in Poland, taxes, regulations and available government support measures for foreign entrepreneurs.
3. Tips and advice for travelers and migrants. Safety tips, information about visas and residence permits, working and living conditions in Poland. Especially important for those who are planning to relocate or stay in the country for a long time.
4. Information materials and resources. Brochures, books and websites with useful information about Poland, including legal aspects of living and working in the country.

For example, if you plan to obtain a permanent residence card in Poland, you may need information about the documents required, the grounds for obtaining one and the benefits it provides, including legal residence, access to education and the ability to work without additional permits.

How to get to the Embassy of Poland in Kiev

If you're planning to visit the Polish Embassy in Kiev, here's the basic information you'll need:

• Address: 12 Yaroslaviv Val St., 01901 Kyiv, Ukraine
• Phone: +380442300700
• Fax: +380442706336
• E-mail: kijow.amb.sekretariat@msz.gov.pl

To get to the embassy, you can use public transportation in Kiev. The embassy is located in the historical center of the city, so it is convenient to get to it both by metro and ground transport. The stops nearby will depend on the specific route you choose. Given that the address is located in the city center, it can be difficult to find a parking spot in the area, especially during business hours. 

If you plan to arrive by car, be prepared to look for paid parking nearby. The best time to visit the embassy is during the morning hours on weekdays, right after it opens. This way you can avoid long lines and long waits.

Read also: How to get a residence card in Poland and what it is

What you need to bring with you

If you are going to the Polish Embassy in Kiev, it is important to be prepared and know a few key points:

1. Required Documents. Before visiting the embassy, make sure you have all the required documents. These usually include your passport, passport, documents confirming the purpose of your trip (e.g. an invitation from the Polish side), proof of financial means, travel insurance and a copy of your tickets (specific requirements may vary).
2. Appointment system and electronic queue. You can make an appointment at the Embassy through the online system, which helps to save time and avoid long queues. 
3. Order and quietness in the waiting room. When you arrive at the Embassy, it is important to maintain order and silence in the waiting room and respect the Embassy staff and other visitors. Come strictly to the appointment time and have all the necessary documents with you.
4. Payment of consular fee. Before visiting the Embassy, check the consular fee on the official website and choose a convenient method of payment. There are different ways of payment, including bank card, cash in the bank and through payment services.

Remember that requirements may change depending on the purpose of your trip and your status (tourist, student, employee), so it is always advisable to check the current requirements on the official website of the Polish Embassy before visiting.

Frequently Asked Questions

When contacting an embassy, people often have many questions related to applying for documents, obtaining a visa, and other consular services. Here are some answers to the most common questions:

• Pre-verification of documents. Embassies do not pre-check documents before they are officially submitted. It is necessary to make sure that all documents are complete and correct.
• Submission of documents by mail. As a rule, documents for visa processing are not accepted by mail. They must be submitted in person or through an authorized person.
• Filling in the application form. The visa application form can be filled out either by hand or on a computer.
• Submission and receipt of documents through a proxy. It is allowed to submit documents through a proxy. In this case it is necessary to draw up and sign a power of attorney on behalf of yourself in a simple written form. Notarization of the power of attorney is not required.
• Timeframes for consideration of applications. Usually visa applications are processed within four working days from the date of submission, but the time period may vary depending on the workload of the department's employees and the content of the submitted documents.
• Fingerprint Exemption. Applicants who have undergone biometrics within the last 59 months are exempt from fingerprinting.

These answers can help you prepare more effectively to contact the embassy and simplify the process of obtaining consular services.