Poland: important documents for Ukrainians to live in

With the outbreak of full-scale war, most Ukrainians were forced to leave their home country for abroad to save their lives. The closest country was Poland, which immediately opened its borders and provided asylum to thousands of Ukrainians.

However, such mass migration became a serious challenge for Poland, requiring not only organizational efforts but also significant resources. The Polish authorities have begun to develop support measures for IDPs, including employment programs, educational courses, and social benefits. However, even with so much help, many Ukrainians faced difficult adaptation and difficulties in their new place.

For refugees who were forced to leave their home and start a new life in a completely foreign country, one of the most difficult things was the preparation of the necessary documents.

What documents do Ukrainians need to obtain to continue living in Poland?

1. You need to apply for PESEL status 

In Poland, along with the temporary protection status, Ukrainians receive a PESEL number upon registration, which is issued once for life and is analogous to the Ukrainian identification number. On March 1, this became mandatory for all refugees from Ukraine. 

2. Electronic certificate

Ukrainian refugees are advised to apply for an electronic residence permit in the Diia.pl application (mObywatel for Ukrainians). This electronic document will allow you to repeatedly cross the border of Poland with a foreign passport without a visa, as well as travel around Europe and the world.

Starting from April 1, refugees will be able to apply for a temporary residence permit – a residence card. While you can live in Poland in the status of temporary protection for up to 3 years, a residence card will allow those Ukrainians who have found a job or started a business there to plan their life in the country.

3. Everyone who works must file a declaration PIT-37

Every citizen of Ukraine working in Poland, including employed Ukrainian refugees, must submit the so-called PIT-37 by May 2, 2023. This is one of the main taxes for individuals in Poland.

4. Write an application for social assistance “Family 500+”

Starting from February 1, Ukrainians can apply for financial assistance under the Family 500+ state program, which provides monthly payments of 500 zlotys (more than 4 thousand UAH) for each child under 18.

Author: Daria Skotchenko

Photo: pexels