Practical advice
Not confident in English or Polish before an interview? Start here
Ordering coffee in another language and calmly explaining your circumstances in an interview are different tasks. If you are unsure whether you will understand the questions, it helps to discuss the language support you need in advance.
Identify what feels difficult
Some people find fast speech difficult to follow. Others struggle to find words or become nervous when answering. Describe the difficulty in simple terms so you can discuss support clearly.
You do not need to demonstrate your language level to the interpreter. Just explain which language feels most comfortable when discussing the trip and answering follow-up questions.
This refers to your conversation with me before travelling, not to a language assessment by consular staff. If you are unsure you can understand and answer questions independently, discuss interpretation in advance.
Do not rely only on memorised phrases
A prepared phrase may help start a conversation, but the next question could be different. Understanding what is being asked and answering about your actual situation matters more.
Do not guess the meaning of an unfamiliar question. Ask for it to be repeated or clarified. This also applies when working with an interpreter: you can still say that a question remains unclear after it has been interpreted.
Interpretation does not mean answering for you
The interpreter conveys the question to you and your answer to the interviewer. They do not invent your story or replace your explanations with their own. Preparation starts with understanding your plans, not finding an “ideal” answer.
During the conversation, short phrases and pauses make interpretation easier. If part of your answer needs clarification, explain it calmly in your own words.
Check interpreter arrangements beforehand
Check organisational requirements before travelling using the appointment instructions. Do not assume that any companion will automatically be permitted to attend an interview.
My Instagram contains material about why an interpreter may be helpful and how to discuss their involvement. Requirements that depend on the institution or interview type should be checked against current official instructions.
Discuss the language and pace that suit you
I accompany clients to interviews in Kraków and provide interpretation from Russian or Ukrainian into English. Let me know which language you prefer and whether a slower pace would help.
If you are calling for your parents, ask them about this directly. Someone may understand several languages but find it easier to explain important details in one of them.
Start with a simple phone call
Tell me the interview date and time, and what concerns you. I will explain how support works. The price is 300 zł or €70 for one interview, with arrangements discussed beforehand.
Call +48 511 243 011. Language support helps clear communication; it is not a guarantee of a visa decision.
I also discuss why an interpreter can help on Instagram.
Arranging support with me does not replace consular approval for the interpreter to attend. Arrange the interpreter’s participation in advance following your appointment instructions and wait for confirmation. Do not assume an interpreter can be added at the entrance on the interview day.