In short
- Temporary protection for people with a PESEL UKR lasts until 4 March 2027.
- People granted status on a declaration without a valid passport had to confirm their identity at the municipal office by 31 August 2026 — otherwise on 1 September 2026 their status changed from UKR to NUE.
- Leaving Poland for more than 30 days ends temporary protection and rules out a CUKR application.
- The CUKR application (340 zł + 100 zł) is filed only through MOS — by 4 March 2027.
What the act of 23 January 2026 changed
- Temporary protection extended to 4 March 2027.
- New arrivals have 30 days from entry to apply for a PESEL UKR — without it there is no protection.
- Leaving for more than 30 days ends protection.
- Employers still notify work, but failing to do so carries a 1,000–3,000 zł fine.
- Only people with temporary protection and some other groups (e.g. Karta Polaka, permanent residence) can open a new sole proprietorship on Polish terms.
NUE status — what it means
NUE means loss of temporary protection status in the PESEL register. It applies to people who didn't confirm their identity by 31 August 2026 or who left Poland for more than 30 days. With NUE you can't apply for CUKR. Check your status in the mObywatel app or at the municipal office.
You have UKR status — what to do now
If you've held UKR status continuously for at least 365 days and had it on 4 June 2025, apply for the CUKR card. It's a 3-year temporary residence permit with the right to work without a permit. Don't wait — the deadline is 4 March 2027 and a decision can take up to 180 days.
You don't qualify for CUKR
Then you need another basis: a residence card for work, studies, family or business under the general rules. You must apply while your stay is legal. We'll check which basis gives you the best chance.
You have NUE status
It depends on when and why your status changed and whether you have another legal basis of stay (visa, residence card, visa-free). Don't delay — describe your situation in the form and we'll check the possible steps.