Citizens of Ukraine who have a PESEL number can apply for a residence card in Poland — a document that grants the right to temporary residence in the country. The process of obtaining this card involves several features, rules, and restrictions, which we will discuss further.
What is a residence card in Poland?
A residence card is a document for temporary or permanent residence that grants foreigners most of the rights available to citizens of the country, including crossing the border without a visa. The document contains information about the holder, their biometric data, photo, address of residence registration, PESEL code, and the conditions under which the person works or can work.
This card is one of the available ways for Ukrainians to legalize their stay in Poland. It provides several advantages:
- legally stay in Poland and cross the border without a visa;
- stay in Schengen zone countries for up to 90 days every 6 months;
- study, work, receive medical insurance, and social assistance in Poland;
- drive vehicles.
Additionally, with this document, you can open bank accounts, apply for loans, and mortgages.
Residence card: how to get it?
You need to submit documents to the voivodeship office at your place of residence or apply online on the MOS website.
Next, it is important to print it out, sign it, add the necessary documents in your case, and send it to the office by mail or in person.
In 2024, the general list of documents required for obtaining a residence card includes:
- an application with four photos (35x45 mm, like for a visa);
- the original and a copy of the passport;
- a document confirming the basis for obtaining the residence card (Pole's card, PESEL UKR, marriage certificate with a Polish citizen);
- a document about residence in Poland;
- bank and employment certificates;
- a document about renting or purchasing housing;
- biometric data;
- a receipt for payment of the stamp duty.
The application must be filled out in two copies in Polish using capital letters.
The decision on obtaining the residence card is sent by mail to your address; you can also pick it up in person at the office after receiving a notification. After this, you need to pay for the card to the specified account and send the receipt to the address from which it was sent. The plastic card will be ready 2-4 weeks after payment, after which you can pick it up with an identity document.
Requirements and criteria for obtaining a residence card
There are temporary and permanent residence cards. Foreigners more often apply for the first type of document.
Foreigners married to Polish citizens for three or more years, those who have a Pole's card, UKR status, or have lived in the country for more than five years with a temporary residence card can apply for permanent residence. Children of Poles or Ukrainian citizens with permanent residence cards can also obtain this card.
How to obtain a residence card in Poland for refugees from Ukraine with PESEL UKR:
- be officially employed under an employment contract;
- open a business related to economic activity (sole proprietorship or LLC);
- be a BLUE CARD holder (IT specialist, engineer, scientist, medic, and other highly qualified professionals).
There is also a list of individual documents that need to be added to the application for a residence card by working applicants, students, and BLUE CARD holders. There are specific features and a separate list of documents for obtaining this card based on UKR status and family reunification. Our lawyers will explain all the nuances to you.
Important! Ukrainians who have received refugee status in another EU country, already have permits for temporary or permanent residence in Poland (e.g., for studies or medical treatment), are not eligible for a residence card.
Deadlines and costs for obtaining a residence card
The cost of a residence card in Poland depends on whether the application is for temporary or permanent residence. In the first case, the fee for issuing the document is 440 PLN, in the second — 640 PLN. You need to pay for the service at the cash desk of the office handling your application. It is advisable not to leave Poland while waiting for a decision, as you will need grounds to return, and waiting for the residence card is not one of them. There are many nuances, we know them all, contact us.
The decision to issue a card or a refusal should be made within three months. But in reality, it takes from three to six months, sometimes the review process extends to a year or more. You can speed up the process by submitting an application for expedited review.
Advantages of consulting a lawyer for obtaining a residence card
Consulting an experienced lawyer increases the chances of obtaining a residence card on the first try. The expert actions of a specialist who understands the legal nuances of the Polish state will speed up the review process and prevent rash decisions. The specialist will determine the optimal strategy for you, leading to the desired result.
What conditions need to be met, what package of documents to prepare, and how to do it correctly — the lawyer knows the answers.
Why should you contact Consultant lawyers?
On the Consultant platform, the best lawyers from all regions of Poland are at your service. They are experienced in obtaining residence cards for foreigners (Ukrainians), know all the nuances of local legislation, have business connections, and work for you around the clock and without days off.
