Car registration in Poland: instructions for Ukrainians

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Boiko Kateryna

Lawyer

Poland / Warsaw

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Publication date: 30.01.2026

Car registration in Poland is a mandatory administrative procedure for foreigners, including Ukrainian citizens and refugees. Without proper registration, a vehicle cannot be legally used on Polish roads, insured with compulsory liability insurance, or undergo technical inspection.

In 2025, car registration for foreigners 2025 remains strictly regulated. Even small documentation errors may result in refusal of registration or administrative penalties. Therefore, understanding the procedure is essential for anyone planning to legally operate a vehicle in Poland.

Who Must Register a Vehicle in Poland

The obligation applies to the following situations:

Car registration for refugees from Ukraine – vehicles purchased in Poland or imported from Ukraine.
Car registration for Ukrainian citizens – both new and used vehicles.
Car registration from Ukraine – required for long-term use in Poland.
Car registration from Ukraine in Poland – necessary to legalize foreign vehicles.
Foreign car registration – applies to vehicles registered outside Poland.

Proper car registration for foreigners allows legal driving and protects vehicle owners from fines and administrative consequences.

Documents Required for Car Registration

To complete car registration in Poland, the following documents are usually required:

proof of vehicle ownership (purchase agreement or invoice),
foreign registration certificate,
valid third-party liability insurance,
proof of legal stay in Poland,
confirmation of registration fees,
excise tax payment (if applicable).

For car registration from Ukraine, sworn translations of documents may also be required.

Registration Procedure Step by Step

The car registration for foreigners 2025 procedure includes:

Submitting an application at the city office or district authority.
Document verification.
Payment of administrative fees.
Issuance of license plates.
Receiving a temporary registration certificate.

In large cities, including the capital, car registration for foreigners Warsaw allows appointment booking through online systems.

Vehicles Imported from Ukraine – Important Rules

Car registration in Ukraine does not allow permanent vehicle use in Poland. To drive legally, car registration from Ukraine in Poland is required and often involves:

technical inspection,
excise tax settlement,
compliance with EU standards,
customs documentation verification.

Why Proper Registration Is Important

Incorrect car registration for foreigners may result in:

refusal of registration,
financial penalties,
problems with vehicle resale,
complications in residence procedures.

Correct registration ensures legal protection and safe vehicle use.

Who We Are

Consultant Legal Marketplace is a professional legal support platform assisting foreigners in Poland. We specialize in vehicle registration procedures, residence legalization, administrative documentation, and cooperation with Polish authorities.

Our mission is to provide clients with legal security and efficient handling of official procedures.

Conclusion

Registration of a car from Ukraine in Poland is a legal obligation for Ukrainians and other foreigners. Whether it concerns car registration for refugees from Ukraine, foreign car registration, or car registration from Ukraine in Poland, compliance with formal requirements is essential.

Correct registration guarantees lawful vehicle use and eliminates the risk of administrative sanctions.

If you plan car registration for foreigners, proper preparation of documents and understanding of procedures can significantly reduce waiting time and help avoid administrative problems.