Personal identification is one of the key elements for ensuring human rights and freedoms in any country. In Poland, as in many other European countries, there is an identification system that allows citizens and foreigners to receive various services, use social and medical guarantees. The PESEL number is an important tool of this system. In this article, we will look at what PESEL is, why it is needed and how to get it.
What is PESEL?
PESEL (Powszechny Elektroniczny System Ewidencji Ludności) is a personal identification number used in Poland to register citizens and foreigners permanently or temporarily residing in the country. The PESEL number consists of 11 digits that contain information about the date of birth, gender and unique identifier of the person. Having this number allows a person to access various administrative services, as well as carry out financial transactions, open bank accounts, receive medical assistance, etc.
How is the PESEL number structured?
The PESEL number consists of 11 digits that have a certain meaning:
- The first two digits correspond to the person's year of birth. For example, if a person was born in 1985, the number will start with 85.
- The third and fourth digits represent the month of birth, where for those born before 2000 the usual values are used (01 for January, 02 for February, and so on), and for those born after 2000, 20 is added to the month value (21 for January, 22 for February, etc. ).
- The fifth and sixth digits represent the date of birth.
- The last five digits are a unique number for personal identification. The last digit is a check digit and is used to check the correctness of the entered data.
This number allows you to accurately identify a person in the system, avoiding confusion, especially among persons with the same date of birth.
Who is eligible to receive a PESEL?
The PESEL number can be assigned not only to citizens of Poland, but also to foreigners who have a certain status in the country. The main categories that can receive PESEL:
- Citizens of Poland receive a PESEL number automatically at birth or upon obtaining citizenship.
- Foreigners living or working in Poland on a permanent basis can also obtain a PESEL to facilitate access to administrative services.
- Students from abroad studying in Polish educational institutions can apply for a PESEL to receive student benefits and other necessary services.
- Persons using the health care system in Poland also need a PESEL number to register in medical facilities and receive medical services.
How to get a PESEL number in Poland?
Obtaining a PESEL number is a process that involves several consecutive steps:
- Contacting the local government: The first step is to contact the local government (Urząd Gminy) where you live.
- Filling out the relevant application: It is necessary to fill out the application for obtaining a PESEL number, providing all the necessary data.
- Providing documents: To prove your identity, you need to provide documents such as your passport, visa (for non-EU citizens), documents confirming your place of residence and other necessary materials.
- Obtaining a number: After verification of your data, you will be assigned a PESEL number, which is usually issued immediately or within a few weeks.
PESEL opens access to various services in Poland, so getting it is an important step to legalize your stay in the country.
PESEL for Ukrainians after February 2022
After the start of the war in Ukraine, many Ukrainians were forced to leave for Poland in search of safety. From February 2022, every citizen of Ukraine who arrived in Poland because of the war has the right to receive a PESEL number with a special UKR status, which gives access to additional rights and social guarantees.
To obtain a PESEL UKR noit is necessary to apply to the local authority, providing documents confirming the identity, photo and fingerprints. This number is important for receiving medical assistance, social benefits and other services.
Where can Ukrainians apply for a PESEL?
If you are a citizen of Ukraine and wish to obtain a PESEL in Poland, you should contact the local authorities, such as Urząd Gminy or Urząd Miasta, depending on where you live. You can also get advice and help from the consular department of the Embassy of Ukraine in Poland or from local public organizations of Ukrainians.
How much does it cost to issue a PESEL number?
Issuing a PESEL number is a free service, and there are no fees for its registration.
Question
What to choose: PESEL or NIP?
Respond
PESEL and NIP are two different identification numbers with different purposes. PESEL is a personal identification number used for individuals, while NIP (Numer Identifykaci Podatkowej) is used for tax purposes and is suitable for entrepreneurs and those running a business. Usually, for everyday needs, such as receiving medical services, social benefits or opening a bank account, it is enough to have a PESEL.
Why should you contact us for help in obtaining a PESEL?
When you are faced with the need to obtain a PESEL number in Poland, it is important to have a reliable partner who will guide you through all the steps of this procedure. We offer you professional support at every step of the PESEL process, so you can focus on other important aspects of your life in Poland.
Our specialists have a deep understanding of the Polish administrative system and many years of experience in working with issues of legalization of stay in the country.
We will help you collect and correctly complete all the necessary documents to avoid possible delays or errors when submitting an application.
We provide advice on all stages of the PESEL process, answering all your questions and explaining each step.
Your situation will receive an individual approach - we will take into account all the features of your case to ensure the best result.
We also offer support after receiving a PESEL, helping you to integrate this number into all the necessary documents and processes so that you can enjoy all the possibilities that this identifier provides.
By contacting us, you get not only assistance in obtaining a PESEL, but also the confidence that your interests will be protected. Entrust this important process to us and we will do our best to make it go quickly and without problems.
PESEL (Polish National Identification Number) and Electronic Signature Application is a necessary procedure for everyone planning a long-term stay in Poland. This number not only simplifies access to many services, but also serves as an official confirmation of your status in the country. By providing yourself with a PESEL number, you open up wide opportunities and guarantees provided by the state.
