For Ukrainian citizens, 2026 brings a new, simplified legalization pathway: the CUKR residence card. This is a real relief for people who came to Poland in connection with the war and have UKR status — instead of constantly monitoring successive grounds for stay, one document valid for three years, with full access to the labor market. In this post, we explain what the CUKR card is, who can obtain it, how much it costs, and how to submit an application.
What is the CUKR card
The CUKR card is a temporary residence permit valid for 3 years, intended for Ukrainian citizens holding a PESEL number with UKR status. Its holder gains:
- full access to the labor market — without needing an additional work permit,
- the right to run a business on the same terms as Polish citizens,
- stability for three years, instead of ad-hoc extensions of protection.
Upon receiving the card, the current stay is converted into a temporary residence permit for a period of 3 years.
Who can obtain the CUKR card — conditions
The key condition is holding UKR status continuously for at least 365 days, including:
- on 4 June 2025, and
- on the date of application submission.
Additionally, a current photograph and payment of fees are required. Children can also apply for the card — the application on behalf of a minor is submitted by a parent or legal guardian, subject to specific conditions (including UKR status and legal stay of the child).
Fees
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Granting temporary residence permit | 340 zł |
| Issuing residence card | 100 zł |
How to submit an application — step by step
- Check your UKR status — whether you have held it continuously for at least 365 days, taking into account the deadline dates.
- Prepare a photograph and payment confirmations.
- Submit the application electronically via MOS — just like other residence card applications, signed with a trusted profile or qualified signature.
- Attend when summoned by the office (e.g., for fingerprints) and collect the card on time.
Note the strict rules: failing to appear twice when summoned by the voivode or leaving Poland for more than 6 months may result in invalidation of the card. The Office for Foreigners (UDSC) announces the date of launching the CUKR application function in MOS — it's worth following UDSC communications.
CUKR vs. other pathways — which to choose
The CUKR card is convenient, but not always the only or best option in a given situation. Working individuals may consider the classic work-based residence card, and over time — permanent residence or EU long-term resident status, which are indefinite and open the path to further stability, including citizenship. The choice depends on life and professional plans — we'll help you think it through.
Employer — what this means for you
If you employ Ukrainian citizens, the CUKR card simplifies matters: an employee with such a card has full access to the labor market without an additional permit. This changes some of your obligations — read more in our post on employer obligations when hiring foreigners.
FAQ — residence card for Ukrainians (CUKR)
How long is the CUKR card valid? Three years. Upon collection, the current stay is converted into a temporary residence permit for this period.
Can I work without a permit with the CUKR card? Yes — the holder has full access to the labor market and can run a business like a Polish citizen.
What is the main condition? UKR status continuously for at least 365 days, including on 4 June 2025 and on the date of application submission.
Can a child get a CUKR card? Yes, subject to specific conditions; the application is submitted by a parent or legal guardian.
What invalidates the card? Among other things, failing to appear twice when summoned by the voivode or leaving Poland for more than 6 months.
Where do you submit the application? Electronically via the MOS portal, after the relevant function is activated by UDSC.
Help for Ukrainians — check your situation
Do you have UKR status and want to regularize your stay for longer? Contact us — we'll check whether you meet the conditions for the CUKR card and handle the case. Start with the legalization of stay guide if you want to first understand the bigger picture.
Legal basis and sources
Specustawa o pomocy obywatelom Ukrainy oraz nowelizacja ustawy o cudzoziemcach z 21 listopada 2025 r.
The content is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Status as of: June 2, 2026.