Permanent Residence Card in Poland for Ukrainian Citizens

One of the documents confirming the right to legally stay and work in Poland is the permanent residence card for Ukrainians. It provides many privileges, and obtaining it can be the first step towards applying for Polish citizenship. However, it is important to know that, for now, the legalization of stay and work is not always required for Ukrainian citizens. This primarily applies to individuals who arrived in Poland after February 24, 2022. Therefore, check whether you need to apply for permanent residence for Ukrainians, and if so, what steps you should take.

When is a Permanent Residence Card Not Required for Ukrainians?

From February 24, 2022, to June 30, 2024, refugees are not required to have a temporary or permanent residence permit. This means that they can:

Legally stay and work in Poland,
Run a business,
Access free public education,
Use free medical care,
Benefit from the 800 Plus program and other family benefits.

The legal stay in Poland can also be extended until August 31, 2024, for students and children attending kindergarten and their parents (this does not apply to parents of youth who have reached 18 years of age).

To enjoy these privileges, you do not need to submit any application or seek refugee status. You only need a PESEL number and Ukrainian citizenship, or if applicable, the citizenship of your spouse (for people who arrived in Poland after February 24, 2022).

Of course, if possible, you can still apply for a temporary or permanent residence permit.

When Should You Apply for a Permanent Residence Permit for Ukrainians?

Work permits are still required for individuals who crossed the border before 2022 and for refugees with citizenship other than Ukrainian (unless the spouse or parent holds Ukrainian citizenship). Individuals who have lost rights under the Ukrainian Assistance Act for various reasons should also apply for a temporary or permanent residence permit.

Those who wish to stay and work legally in Poland after June 30, 2024, should also apply for a temporary residence permit or permanent residence card for Ukrainians. This is a beneficial solution, especially for those who want to stay in Poland permanently.

Who Can Apply for a Permanent Residence Card for Ukrainians?

According to Article 195 of the Foreigners Act, a permanent residence permit can be granted to:

People of Polish descent who intend to settle permanently in Poland,
Holders of a valid Polish Card who plan to settle permanently in Poland,
People who have been married to a Polish citizen for at least 3 years before submitting the application, provided they have lived in Poland continuously for at least 2 years on the basis of a previously obtained temporary residence permit related to marriage or due to refugee status, supplementary protection, or humanitarian stay,
People who have obtained asylum in Poland,
People who, before applying for a permanent residence permit, have lived in Poland continuously for at least 5 years on the basis of refugee status, supplementary protection, or humanitarian stay,
People who, for no less than 10 years before applying for a permanent residence permit, have lived in Poland continuously based on tolerated stay, provided certain conditions are met,
Victims of human trafficking, if they meet specified conditions.

How to Apply for a Permanent Residence Card for Ukrainians – Requirements

To obtain a permanent residence card in Poland for a Ukrainian citizen, an application must be submitted no later than the last day of legal stay in Poland. The foreigner submits it personally at the Voivodeship Office. What documents should be prepared?

Application for a permanent residence permit in two copies,
Photocopies of the foreign passport (original to be presented when submitting the application),
4 photographs that meet the requirements,
Proof of payment of the stamp duty,
All documents confirming the information provided in the application.

These documents may vary depending on the basis of the application. To ensure you have collected them correctly, please contact us. Our office specializes in comprehensive support for foreigners.

Summary

Currently, Ukrainian citizens who arrived in Poland as refugees can legally stay in Poland and work without needing documents such as a visa, invitation for foreigners, or the starosta’s information for foreigners. People who no longer have rights under the Ukrainian Assistance Act and refugees who want to stay in Poland permanently should apply for a temporary or permanent residence permit for Ukrainians. How to gather the required documents and submit the application? Contact us – we are happy to assist you.

Our office also provides advice on other matters such as applying for citizenship or extending work and residence permits in Poland. Feel free to get in touch.