Publication date: 21.05.2024
Lawyer
Registration of residence permit in EU countries : registration of supporting documents in Poland
Residence permit in Poland – preparation of supporting documents
In Poland, obtaining a permanent residence permit is a structured process that requires specific documentation and residency requirements. Citizens of EU or EFTA member states are granted the right of permanent residence after five years of continuous residence, provided that they have had the right to reside in Poland during this period. Likewise, family members who are not nationals of these countries can acquire this right after five years of continuous residence in Poland together with an EU/EFTA citizen, provided that they have had the appropriate residence rights as family members.
To be eligible, residence must be continuous, meaning not leaving Poland for a total of more than six months per year. Exceptions to this rule include:
Compulsory military service.
Important personal situations such as pregnancy, childbirth, illness, study, training or business travel, provided these absences do not exceed 12 consecutive months.
Application process
To obtain a document confirming the right to permanent residence or a permanent residence card, applicants must submit an application to the voivode (governor) responsible for their place of residence. The issuance of these documents is free of charge.
Information for citizens of Ukraine
In response to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, special provisions were adopted for Ukrainian citizens wishing to obtain a residence permit in Poland. Citizens of Ukraine who arrived in Poland starting from February 24, 2022 in connection with hostilities and declared their intention to remain, are granted the right to legal residence until at least March 4, 2024. This provision applies if they do not have another residence permit in Poland or have not received protection in another EU country.
Expanded rights for citizens of Ukraine
Education: The period of stay is extended until August 31, 2024 for those entering educational institutions and until September 30, 2024 for those passing the entrance exam.
Loss of right: This right is lost if they are granted temporary protection in another EU country or if they leave Poland for more than 30 days, unless they are on a work trip or working as a seafarer/fisherman.
Extension of the right of residence
The validity of national visas and temporary residence permits for Ukrainians has been extended automatically until March 4, 2024, without requiring any human action. This extension does not allow border crossings.
PESEL number with “UKR” status
Citizens of Ukraine can receive a PESEL number with “UKR” status, which confirms their right to reside in Poland and access to related benefits. This number is critical for various administrative processes, including work and receiving social benefits. Application for a PESEL number must be submitted in person at the municipal office and requires proof of identity and photograph.
Temporary residence permit for Ukrainians
From April 1, 2023, Ukrainian citizens with a PESEL number can apply for a temporary residence and work permit. Applications are submitted to the voivode and must include:
Four current photographs.
Photocopy of a valid travel document.
Confirmation of payment of stamp duty.
Required attachments corresponding to the type of residence permit requested.
The stamp duty varies: PLN 440 for work permits and PLN 340 for business permits.
Registration Requirement
Ukrainians staying in Poland for more than 30 days must register their place of residence. This process involves first obtaining a PESEL number and then registering at the local commune office. Registration requires a completed temporary residence form, confirmation from the property owner and a document confirming the legal right to the premises. There is no registration fee.
The process of obtaining a residence permit in Poland requires careful preparation of documents and compliance with specific legal requirements. For EU/EFTA citizens and their family members, continuous residence and proper documentation are key to obtaining permanent residence. Meanwhile, Ukrainian citizens benefit from special provisions due to the ongoing conflict that allow them to extend their stay and facilitate easier access to temporary residence permits and work opportunities in Poland.
