Visit Ukraine – Ukrainians in Poland will be able to apply for a CUKR card starting May 4, 2026: what you need to know

Poland will begin accepting applications for the CUKR card from Ukrainians as early as spring 2026. Find out who is eligible to apply, what important dates to keep in mind, and how to avoid missing deadlines

Poland has set the start date for applications for the CUKR residence card for Ukrainians. Starting May 4, 2026, Ukrainian citizens with PESEL UKR status will be able to submit documents to legalize their residence following temporary protection. This was reported by InPoland.net.pl.

How to apply for the CUKR card?

Applications for a residence card marked “Previously had temporary protection” (CUKR) will begin on May 4, 2026. Ukrainian citizens with a PESEL UKR number will be able to apply. The process will take place exclusively online via the new MOS government portal, which will go live on April 27, 2026.

Applications for the following will also be submitted through this service:

● temporary residence;

● permanent residence;

● EU long-term resident status.

As explained by Minister of the Interior and Administration Marcin Kervinsky, once the system is launched, electronic submission will be the only available option.

A separate rule applies to those whose legal stay is set to expire in the near future. If your status expires before the system launches or shortly thereafter, you should submit your application in paper form by April 26, 2026.

Important:

● documents must be received by the provincial office by this date;

● the date of mailing is not taken into account;

● applications received after April 26 will not be considered.

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Why is the CUKR card important?

The CUKR card is one of the key legalization tools for Ukrainians in Poland following temporary protection. It allows you to officially confirm your right of residence and avoid the risk of losing your legal status.

Given the new rules, it is important not only to submit the application on time but also to prepare the documents correctly. If you have any doubts about the procedure or the grounds for submission, it is advisable to consult specialists in advance. In particular, immigration lawyers at Visit Ukraine can help prepare the documents and avoid mistakes during submission.

We remind you! Ukrainians in Poland must update their PESEL UKR data by August 31, 2026. Read about who is required to do this, what documents are needed, and what will happen if the requirements are not met.

Photo: pvproductions / Freepik

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