As of July 1, 2025, the Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange (NAWA) has become the sole authority responsible for issuing individual statements concerning foreign certificates and diplomas. This change stems from the Act of April 4, 2025, and is intended to simplify and standardize procedures related to the admission of international students to Polish universities. 

The new regulations also make it possible to introduce special visa pathways for academics, researchers, and participants in scientific exchange programs. As a result, the processes for granting visas and recognizing foreign qualifications are expected to become more transparent, predictable, and accessible. 

Applications for an official statement from the NAWA Director may only be submitted electronically through the SYRENA system. The entire procedure has been fully digitized, allowing candidates from anywhere in the world to submit their documents online. The statements are issued free of charge, and the processing time is up to 60 days, with a target of shortening this period to 21 days in the future. 

The new rules apply to applicants from outside the European Union, EFTA, OECD, and countries with which Poland has not signed bilateral agreements on the recognition of education. For certificates from countries covered by such agreements, as well as documents such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) or European Baccalaureate (EB), an individual NAWA statement is not required. 

All decisions of Regional Education Authorities issued before July 1, 2025, remain valid and may continue to be used in admission processes. Applications for statements may be submitted either by the applicant or by the university to which they are applying. 

Detailed information and application instructions are available on the NAWA website: www.nawa.gov.pl