CUKR Card in Poland: New Obligations for Ukrainians and Conditions for Status Loss

In Poland, the preparation of the MOS electronic service is nearing completion, allowing foreigners to apply for temporary residence permits. According to the Office for Foreigners, Ukrainian citizens will soon be able to apply for a special residence card - CUKR - through this system. Obtaining this document completely changes an individual's legal status and imposes new administrative obligations.

Loss of Temporary Protection Status

Issuing a CUKR card results in the automatic termination of temporary protection (UKR status). Consequently, Ukrainians lose access to special financial aid and benefits provided exclusively to war refugees. After receiving the CUKR card, the right to state payments and other forms of social support will be granted on general grounds applicable to all foreigners in Poland.

Key Obligations of CUKR Card Holders

Individuals legalizing their stay through this document must strictly adhere to the new rules. Key requirements include:

• Change of address notification: In the event of a change of residence, the Voivode who issued the card must be notified within 15 working days;
• Travel limit: If the cardholder leaves the territory of Poland for a period exceeding 6 months, they will automatically lose their temporary residence permit.

Pick-up Deadlines and Risk of Document Annulment

Special attention should be paid to the process of picking up the physical card. Once the Voivodeship Office sends notification that the document is ready, the applicant has exactly 60 days to pick it up in person. If this deadline is not met:

• the decision regarding the temporary residence permit will not take effect;
• the manufactured CUKR card will be fully annulled.

Following such an annulment, any subsequent application for a residence permit must be submitted under general legalization rules.

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