Updated: 12 November 2026
How to get a PESEL UKR
- Apply at any municipal office (urząd gminy) in Poland.
- Deadline: 30 days from crossing the Polish border. After that, UKR status can no longer be granted.
- Show a valid passport.
Identity confirmation
- People granted UKR status only on a declaration (without a valid passport) had to confirm their identity with a valid passport at a municipal office by 31 August 2026. Those who didn’t lost UKR status from 1 September 2026.
- If your PESEL UKR was assigned based on, say, a Karta Polaka, a birth certificate or an invalid passport, confirm your identity at the municipal office within 60 days of your new passport being issued.
When you lose UKR status
- Leaving Poland for more than 30 days.
- Receiving another residence permit (temporary, permanent, EU long-term resident) or another form of protection.
- Applying for international protection in Poland.
- Receiving temporary protection in another EU country.
- Acquiring Polish or another EU citizenship.
What UKR status gives you
- Legal stay under temporary protection — until 4 March 2027 under Polish rules.
- Work without a permit — whoever entrusts the work notifies the labour office within 7 days of the start. If they don’t, the employer pays the fine, not the worker.
- The option to apply for a CUKR residence card by 4 March 2027 — you need a valid PESEL UKR and at least 365 days of status.
For drivers and couriers
With a PESEL UKR you can start as a courier straight away and drive a taxi once your licence is exchanged. See taxi work for Ukrainian citizens.
This is general information as of November 2026, based on gov.pl and zielonalinia.gov.pl. It is not legal advice. Rules for foreigners change often — confirm your situation with the voivodeship office, the labour office or the Zielona Linia helpline.
FAQ
Where do I apply for a PESEL UKR?
At any municipal office, within 30 days of crossing the border, with a valid passport.
Will I lose UKR status if I leave Poland?
Yes, if you’re away for more than 30 days.
Can I work with a PESEL UKR?
Yes, without a permit. Whoever entrusts the work notifies the labour office within 7 days.
