Publication date: 26.03.2025
Master of Laws, I can provide nutrition and provide local consultations and support clients with the following services: The employer's protection from the procedure for renewing a job before senior workers, including those under contract; Zachist rights creditor oberzhuvacha; Inquire about the establishment of Fatherland and adoption; Establishment of the right of authority to a land plot; Procedural assistance in registration.
Background: An individual sought assistance in obtaining the necessary documentation, permits, and visas to stay in Poland after arriving due to an armed conflict in their home country.
Issue: The person needed to legalize their stay in Poland and secure employment opportunities.
Solution: Support was provided in navigating local administrative procedures, including obtaining a PESEL number and handling all required paperwork for legal residence in Poland.
Outcome: The individual successfully obtained legal status in Poland via a Karta Pobytu, secured employment, and registered their address in a rented accommodation.
Services Offered:
- Guidance and assistance in visiting government offices to obtain a PESEL (identification number).
- Employment mediation and support.
- Assistance in registering an official address (zameldowanie).
- Help with document preparation and submission for obtaining a Karta Pobytu (residence permit).
Costs:
Total: 1,500 PLN, which includes:
45 PLN – Photograph fee
17 PLN – Administrative fee
600 PLN – Local government charge for issuing a residence card
*Note: Prices are based on rates in Łódź and may vary in different Polish municipalities, as each determines its own service fees.
Requirements for Legal Stay in Poland
To legally reside in Poland, individuals must obtain:
PESEL (identification number)
Zameldowanie (residence registration)
Karta Pobytu (residence permit)
For Ukrainians who left after February 24, 2022, due to the full-scale invasion, obtaining PESEL UKR is required for temporary protection.
Rights and Benefits of PESEL UKR Holders:
To apply for temporary protection, a Ukrainian citizen must register with Polish authorities and obtain PESEL UKR. This status grants:
- Legal stay – Valid until March 4, 2024, with possible extensions.
Employment rights – No additional work permit needed.
Healthcare access – Free medical services on par with Polish citizens.
Social support – Eligibility for a one-time financial allowance and other benefits.
Education access – Free schooling and kindergarten for children.
Karta Pobytu (Residence Permit: Temporary or Permanent)
For those intending to stay in Poland long-term—for work, study, business, or marriage—obtaining a Karta Pobytu is essential.
Steps to Obtain a Karta Pobytu:
- Submit an application at the Voivodeship Office (Urząd Wojewódzki).
Provide necessary documents, including: passport, proof of income, rental agreement, employment contract or university admission confirmation.
Await processing, which can take several months.
Ukrainians under temporary protection (PESEL UKR) can start working immediately after registration. However, for those planning long-term residency, applying for Karta Pobytu is a necessary step toward obtaining permanent residency or citizenship.
Documents Required for Karta Pobytu:
- Zameldowanie (residence registration)
- Documents justifying the permit request, such as employment contracts, university enrollment, or rental agreements
Processing times can reach up to 6 months due to high demand. Seeking professional assistance can ensure correct document preparation, application submission, and a smoother process.
Key Information:
PESEL Application: It is advisable to apply immediately upon arrival in Poland.
Social Benefits: To retain financial aid, individuals crossing the Polish border must have an active Diia.pl application.
Legal Stay Extension: Ukrainians holding PESEL UKR can legally stay in Poland until September 30, 2025.
The process of securing legal residence in Poland requires careful attention to detail. Mistakes in applications or missing documents can lead to rejection, resulting in wasted time and money. To avoid complications, seeking expert guidance can ensure all paperwork is completed correctly from the start.
