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Publication date: 12.02.2025
If you have come to Poland due to the war in Ukraine, it is important to take care of your legal stay to be able to work officially and receive social support.
Key Documents for Legalization
To obtain an official status in Poland, you need to process the following documents:
- PESEL UKR (identification number for Ukrainian citizens who arrived after February 24, 2022)
- Zameldowanie (registration of residence)
- Karta Pobytu (temporary or permanent residence permit)
Opportunities After Obtaining PESEL UKR
Registering for PESEL UKR grants several rights and opportunities:
- Legal stay – until March 4, 2024, with the possibility of extension
- Official employment – no need for a separate work permit
- Medical care – access to free healthcare on the same terms as Polish citizens
- Social assistance – one-time payments and other forms of support
- Education for children – free schooling and kindergarten services
Obtaining a Residence Permit (Karta Pobytu)
If you plan to stay in Poland for a long period (work, study, marriage, business, etc.), you should apply for a Karta Pobytu.
Application Process:
- Submitting an application to the Voivodeship Office
- Preparing a document package: passport, proof of income, rental agreement, employment contract, or proof of studies
- Waiting for application review (processing may take up to 6 months due to high demand)
Obtaining a Karta Pobytu is a necessary step for those planning long-term residence, obtaining permanent residency, or applying for Polish citizenship.
Legalization Costs
- Photos – 45 PLN
- Administrative fee – 17 PLN
- Plastic card issuance – 600 PLN
- Total costs – approximately 1500 PLN (for Łódź; fees may vary in other cities)
Legal Assistance for Document Processing in Poland
The process of document legalization in Poland can be complex, especially with frequent legislative changes. Legal assistance can significantly simplify the process and reduce the risk of rejection. A qualified lawyer can assist with the following:
- Obtaining a residence permit (temporary, permanent, or EU resident permit) – eligibility analysis, document preparation, application filling, and appeal in case of rejection
- Employment in Poland – work permit processing, employment contract verification, legal protection in case of employer violations
- Family reunification – assistance with Karta Pobytu applications for family members and residence permit procedures
- Obtaining Polish citizenship – eligibility assessment, document preparation, and appeal of possible rejections
- Appealing deportation or entry bans – preparing appeals, legal representation in court or administrative bodies
- Business registration in Poland – consulting on business entity selection, legal assistance in company registration
Why Seek Legal Assistance?
- Time-saving – a lawyer helps you complete all procedures faster
Avoiding mistakes – incorrectly filled documents can lead to rejection
Legal protection – a lawyer can represent your interests in case of any issues
Important Information
It is recommended to apply for PESEL UKR immediately after arriving in Poland.
When leaving and re-entering Poland, you must present an updated status confirmation via the Diia.pl app.
Legal stay for PESEL UKR holders has been extended until September 30, 2025.
The process of obtaining legal status requires careful attention. Mistakes or incomplete documentation may lead to rejection and financial losses.
It is recommended to seek assistance from experienced specialists who can help you correctly fill out applications, gather all necessary documents, and guide you through the legalization process.
