In Poland, the PESEL number is the main individual identifier for all residents, including foreigners. It is necessary for obtaining health insurance, social benefits, employment, and access to banking services. This is reported by InPoland.
You can obtain a PESEL at the municipal office. If a foreigner registers a residence address for more than 30 days, the number is assigned automatically. Without registration, a separate application must be submitted. For this, it is sufficient to present a passport or another identification document, as well as proof of legal residence, such as a work contract or residence registration. The service is free, and the number is issued once and does not change, except in cases of updating personal data.
Why PESEL is needed: key opportunities for Ukrainians
Having a number opens access to key services in Poland:
-
health insurance and treatment
-
official employment
-
social programs and payments
-
bank accounts and financial services
-
education, administrative, and municipal procedures.
According to employment expert Vitalii Serhiiovych Belents, many Ukrainians underestimate the importance of PESEL until they encounter everyday limitations.
«Without this number, employers cannot fully register an employee, banks refuse to open an account, and access to healthcare is greatly complicated. PESEL — this is actually the key to legal life in Poland», — emphasized the specialist.
How to obtain PESEL
Registration takes place at the nearest urząd miasta or urząd gminy. The application is submitted in person, and the number is assigned immediately after document verification. Important: PESEL is permanent and does not require renewal even during a change of address or employer.
If you are interested in working in Poland, we suggest checking out 350,000 job vacancies on the Layboard portal.
After the onset of the full-scale war, Poland simplified procedures for Ukrainians and provided access to the PESEL UKR system. This status allowed obtaining protection, healthcare, and employment without unnecessary bureaucratic barriers.
Earlier, we wrote that Poland extended temporary protection for Ukrainians until spring 2026.