Publication date: 02.02.2026
PESEL is the main identification number of a foreigner in Poland, which is used in most public and private systems. It is based on it that records are formed in the population register, tax authorities, healthcare systems, social security and migration registers.
Even a minor errors in PESEL can have serious administrative consequences: from technical failures in the systems to the actual impossibility of resolving important legal issues.
The most common errors in PESEL
In practice, the following incorrect data in Poland are most often encountered:
- incorrect spelling of the name or surname (Latin / transliteration);
- incorrect date or place of birth;
- discrepancies between PESEL data and the foreign passport;
- outdated or incorrect address data;
- technical failures during initial registration or updating information.
Many of these errors are not due to the fault of the foreigner, but arise because of the human factor or incorrect data transfer between systems.
What causes PESEL errors
If correcting PESEL data is not made on time, it can lead to:
- refusals to accept applications in state institutions;
- delays in migration, tax or social affairs;
- problems with the use of ePUAP and electronic services;
- blocking of online submission of documents;
- risks to legal residence in Poland.
In some cases, errors in the population register cause chain refusals in several institutions simultaneously.
How PESEL data correction is carried out
PESEL data correction is an official administrative procedure that requires a clear sequence of actions. It usually includes:
- checking information in the population register;
- analysis of the reasons for the error;
- preparation of legal justification for the changes;
- submission of a correct package of documents to the relevant authority;
- control of the actual introduction of changes and synchronization of data in the systems.
Independent attempts often do not yield results or significantly delay the process due to a lack of knowledge of procedural nuances.
When legal advice is needed
Legal advice is especially necessary if:
- a PESEL error has already led to refusals in state institutions;
- data is not updated or not synchronized between systems;
- case processing times are delayed without explanation;
- there is a risk of negative consequences for migration status.
Professional support allows you to quickly identify the source of the problem, correctly prepare documents and significantly reduce the time required for correction.
PESEL errors are not a minor formality, but a real obstacle to the normal functioning of the Polish legal system. The sooner PESEL data correction is completed, the fewer risks, delays and refusals will arise in the future. Legal Marketplace Consultant supports the PESEL data correction process from initial analysis to final confirmation of changes in all registers. If you experience difficulties with your data or state institutions refuse to process your cases, contact us. We will help resolve this and any other legal issue in Poland.
Question
What are the most common errors in PESEL?
Answer
Errors in the name, surname, date of birth, address or discrepancies with passport data.
Question
Is it possible to use PESEL with errors?
Answer
Technically, sometimes yes, but in practice this often leads to refusals in state institutions and blocking of cases.
Question
How long does it take to correct PESEL data?
Answer
The time frame depends on the nature of the error and the correctness of the submitted documents. With professional support, the process usually goes much faster.
Question
Do errors in PESEL affect ePUAP?
Answer
Yes, incorrect data often blocks electronic services or causes technical failures.
Question
Is it necessary to contact a lawyer?
Answer
Formally no, but legal consultation significantly reduces the risk of repeated refusals and delays in the procedure.
