How Ukrainian Children in Poland Can Obtain a CUKR Residence Card Independently of Their Parents' Status

Securing a CUKR Residence Card for Ukrainian Citizen Children

According to ХВИЛЯ: Poland's Office for Foreign Affairs has clarified the procedure for Ukrainian children to obtain a CUKR residence card, even if their parents do not hold this document. The clarification states that children are entitled to individual legalization for the CUKR card, and their legal status can be assessed separately from that of their legal guardians. Consequently, a parent's lack of a CUKR card is not an obstacle to securing one for their child. This policy is part of Poland's broader framework for supporting refugees from Ukraine following the 2022 invasion.

Requirements for the CUKR Card

The official application process for the CUKR card will commence on May 4, 2026. For a child's application to be approved, the following conditions must be met:

• The child must possess an active and valid PESEL UKR number at the time of application.
• The status of an active PESEL UKR must be confirmed as of June 4, 2025.
• The valid PESEL UKR number must be maintained on the day the provincial governor makes a decision.
• The child must have continuously held UKR status for at least 365 days prior to the application date, with no departures from Poland exceeding 30 days per trip.

Special rules apply to children born in Poland after February 23, 2022. According to these rules, a newborn child can obtain a CUKR card only if the child's mother already holds or is in the process of obtaining this card. This initiative by Poland's Office for Foreign Affairs facilitates the legalization of Ukrainian children, representing a significant step in supporting Ukrainian refugees within the country. It simplifies the legalization process for many families, ensuring children have access to essential services like education and healthcare while in Poland.

Understanding the nuances of the CUKR residence card is essential for Ukrainian families in Poland. For those seeking clarity on the distinctions between the UKR status and the CUKR card, this information is crucial. It provides insights into the legal frameworks affecting refugees and can help families navigate their options more effectively. To learn more about these important differences, visit the differences between UKR status and the CUKR card.