What You Need to Know About PESEL UKR Status

What Ukrainians in Poland Should Know About PESEL UKR?

Why do you need it? Who must apply for PESEL UKR? How to get it and how to avoid losing it?

In this article we answer all the most common questions Ukrainians have about PESEL.

What Is PESEL?

Ukrainians who moved to Poland after 24 February 2022 are required to obtain a PESEL UKR. PESEL (Powszechny Elektroniczny System Ewidencji Ludności — the Universal Electronic Population Register System) is an eleven-digit number used in Poland to identify individuals. The number encodes information about date of birth, gender, and other personal data. If you plan to live and/or work in the country on a permanent basis in the near future — you must obtain a PESEL. Without an identification number you will not be able to get a job, obtain a driving licence, sign up for health insurance, open a bank account, and more.

How Can Ukrainians Obtain PESEL?

If you have arrived in Poland and wish to receive temporary protection from the state, you must submit your PESEL UKR application within 30 days of arrival. PESEL is the legal basis for your stay in the country. The number is issued completely free of charge. The procedure for obtaining PESEL is as follows: ⇒ Visit your local municipal office (gmina). Bring a passport or other identity document and a colour photograph (no older than 6 months, 3.5×4.5 cm). ⇒ When submitting your application, you will fill in a PESEL registration form and hand it in at the municipal office or at the Office for Foreigners. All adults and children aged 13 and over also have their fingerprints taken. ⇒ After verification and registration you will receive your PESEL. This usually takes 15–30 days.

How Long Can You Travel to Ukraine Without Losing PESEL UKR?

A Ukrainian citizen who obtains PESEL UKR declares that they will permanently reside in Poland. However, this does not mean you cannot travel at all — you may do so, but for no more than 30 days per single trip. If you travel for a longer period, your PESEL UKR and the right to benefits will be forfeited. When crossing the border, ask border guards to stamp your foreign passport.

Can You Move Permanently to Another EU Country After Receiving PESEL?

Yes, you can. Keep in mind, however, that if you decide to claim benefits and financial assistance in another country, you must give up Polish benefits (notify ZUS about this). Otherwise, Polish oversight authorities will still require the repayment of any funds already received.

Can You Convert a PESEL Issued Before 24.02.2022 to PESEL UKR?

Yes, your PESEL needs to be updated to reflect the UKR status. The PESEL number itself will not change, but your personal data will be updated and your photograph renewed.

What Are the Reasons for Losing UKR Status?

You may lose your PESEL UKR if you: ⇒ travel outside the country for more than 30 days; ⇒ change your documents without notifying the Social Insurance Institution (ZUS); ⇒ ignore requests from ZUS — they may call to verify your whereabouts; ⇒ obtain protection status in another country.

If you have lost UKR status without violating any rules, contact your local municipal office with a written application, your passport and PESEL. If you travelled abroad — be prepared to provide exact dates of departure and return, as well as the reason for your trip.

What Is the Difference Between a Karta Pobytu and PESEL UKR?

A karta pobytu (residence card) is a permit for temporary residence. Ukrainians can obtain one in three cases: ⇒ upon taking up official employment; ⇒ if they hold a highly qualified profession; ⇒ upon registering a business.

More details about the karta pobytu.

More articles about life and work for Ukrainians in Poland can be found here.

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