New opportunities for refugees from Ukraine in Poland: CUKR residence card
Amendments to the Law "On assistance to citizens of Ukraine in connection with the armed conflict on the territory of Ukraine" have entered into force. One of the key innovations is the possibility of obtaining a CUKR residence card, which will significantly simplify the legalization procedure for refugees from Ukraine. CUKR (Karta Uchodźcy) is a special document that enables legal stay in Poland and opens new perspectives for Ukrainian refugees. The card allows not only to stay in the country, but also to get access to a number of social, economic and legal benefits.
Question
What are the advantages of the CUKR card?
Answer
The CUKR card allows you to legally stay in Poland without the constant need to renew your visa or other documents. Holders of the card can receive medical services, assistance from the state and other social benefits. The CUKR card provides the possibility of official employment in Poland, which is an important factor for integration into society.
Legalization of the stay of Ukrainians in Poland: three options for 2024
Ukrainians who were forced to leave their country because of the war have three main options for legalizing their stay in Poland. Each of these options has its own characteristics and advantages, which allows you to choose the most suitable one for your individual situation.
- UKR PESEL number: This legalization option has been available since the start of the full-scale invasion and provides an opportunity to obtain temporary protection. The main advantages: holders of UKR PESEL have the right to free medical care, the opportunity to receive state support, legal residence without the need to get a damaged card, the opportunity to start their own business. It is important to remember that UKR PESEL holders must not leave Poland for more than 30 days, otherwise they lose their status. Note that the latest amendment to the law emphasizes that the application for obtaining a PESEL number must be submitted immediately upon arrival in Poland.
- Traditional temporary resident card: The second option involves obtaining a temporary residence card on general grounds. For this, you need to have a valid reason for living in Poland, such as: legal work in a Polish company, processing documents for studying in Polish educational institutions, registering your own business. From April 1, 2023, Ukrainians who are legally employed in Poland can apply for a temporary residence permit.
- CUKR residence card: The third option introduced by the latest amendment to the law "On the status of refugees" is the CUKR residence card. Key features: CUKR card holders will have the same rights as other foreigners, including access to the labor market, and the card will be issued for three years. It is provided only to citizens of Ukraine, including children, who already have a PESEL CUKR.
Ukrainians residing in Poland have several options for legalizing their status, depending on their situation. Choosing between a UKR PESEL, a traditional temporary resident card and a CUKR card can depend on personal needs and future plans. It is important to be aware of all the benefits and conditions of each option in order to choose the most appropriate one for your situation.
Question
Who is the CUKR card available to?
Answer
Citizens of Ukraine can obtain a CUKR resident card if they meet one of the following criteria: Refugee status as of March 4, 2024: Persons who already had refugee status on that date. Refugee status at the time of application submission: Citizens who have refugee status on the date of submission of documents for obtaining a temporary residence permit. Continuous status of a resident of Ukraine: Persons who have a continuous status of a resident of Ukraine for at least 365 days. Additionally, the CUKR card will be available to persons who arrived in Poland as family members of beneficiaries of temporary protection.
Application process
Acceptance of applications for a CUKR resident card will begin in 2025. However, it is important to note that the regulation of this process will become effective only after the launch of a special online service that will simplify the submission of documents. The CUKR resident card is an important step in ensuring the rights of Ukrainians who were forced to leave their country due to the war. This new opportunity to legalize their status in Poland will allow many to gain stability and support during a difficult time. It is worth following the information about the launch of the online service in order to submit documents in a timely manner. The procedure for obtaining a CUKR resident card for citizens of Ukraine staying in Poland will be carried out through the electronic system of the Office for Foreigners. Here is a detailed description of the stages of this procedure:
- Preparation of documents: Before submitting the application, it is important to prepare the necessary documents. They can usually include: a passport of a citizen of Ukraine, a document confirming refugee status (for example, a temporary protection card), evidence of continuous residence in Ukraine (if available), documents confirming family ties, if you are applying as a family member and beneficiary.
- Registration in the electronic system: To apply for a CUKR card, you need to: Create an account in the electronic system of the Office for Foreigners. Confirm your identity, which may require providing an electronic signature or identification data.
- Online application: Complete the electronic application form for a CUKR card. Attach all prepared documents in electronic form. Check that all fields are filled in correctly before submitting.
- Waiting for a decision: After submitting your application, you will only have to wait for a response from the Office of Foreigners. The review process may take some time, so it is recommended to regularly check the status of the application in the electronic system.
- Receiving the card: If your application is approved, you will receive a notification that the card is ready. You will need to visit the Office of Foreigners to obtain a physical card.
Obtaining a CUKR resident card is an important step for Ukrainians looking for stability and support in Poland. Thanks to the electronic system, the process will become more convenient and faster, which will avoid bureaucratic difficulties. Do not forget to prepare all the necessary documents and follow the instructions at each stage.
Services of a lawyer when receiving a CUKR resident card
Obtaining a CUKR resident card is an important step for Ukrainians who wish to legalize their stay in Poland. Here is how written consultation and support from a lawyer can help in this process:
Lawyer's consultation and legal analysis of the situation: The lawyer online provides initial consultations on the conditions for obtaining a CUKR card, including: legal analysis of the client's status (whether he meets the requirements). clarification of rights and obligations related to the CUKR card, document analysis that may be required.
Verification of documents by a lawyer: A lawyer will help you collect and prepare all the necessary documents, including: passport and confirmation of refugee status, proof of continuous residence in Ukraine, documents to confirm family ties. Filling out an electronic application can be a complicated process, so a lawyer will: help fill out the form correctly, taking into account all the nuances and check all the entered data and attached documents before submission, conduct a legal analysis of documents.
Representation in authorities: A lawyer in Poland can represent your interests in the Office of Foreigners, which includes: conducting negotiations and communication with the relevant authorities, resolving possible issues or misunderstandings during the application review. Help, if necessary, to submit additional documents or explanations. The lawyer can also provide advice on other aspects of immigration law.
CUKR opens up new opportunities for adaptation and development in new conditions, which is important for refugees seeking to rebuild their lives. The services of a lawyer when obtaining a CUKR resident card can greatly simplify the process and reduce the risk of errors. A legal opinion of a lawyer will help you focus on more important aspects of your life in Poland, ensuring the legalization of your stay without unnecessary stress.
