How can a refugee from Ukraine obtain refugee status in Poland in 2023? Key information and principles

It is the second year of the war in Ukraine and the second year that refugees are in limbo under Polish law. The special law on assistance to Ukrainians in Poland was recently amended to regulate the issue of obtaining a residence card for refugees from Ukraine. Polish officials explain that according to these changes, any Ukrainian who arrives after 24.02.2022 can obtain a residence card in Poland.

Our M&M Office team also helps Ukrainians with UKR PESEL status to obtain a Residence Card. All you need to do is call one of our contact numbers:

+48 735 460 057

+48 532 317 831 (all communicators) and we will consider the best way to legalize your stay in Poland.

ONLINE RESIDENCE CARD

It is now possible to apply for a residence card online! All you need to do is to use the Module of Case Service (MOS), which is available in 7 languages, including Ukrainian.

Just follow 3 steps:

-Go to mos.cudzoziemcy.gov.pl/ua
-complete the online form and submit it.
-print the form, sign it and submit it during a personal visit to the Provincial Office.

ADDITIONAL ONLINE SERVICES

Additional features of the MOS include the possibility to check whether the applicant has the right to stay in Poland, to obtain information on the procedures for entry, exit and stay of foreigners in Poland, as well as information on errors that may occur when submitting documents.

In addition, the MOS provides access to procedural checklists to ensure that our actions are correct when submitting an application. There are also plans to make the application form available online in the future.

CAN I STAY IN POLAND ON A UKRAINIAN PESEL?

From 1 April 2023, refugees from Ukraine can already apply for a residence card on the basis of:

-official employment

-conducting official economic activity

-possession of a blue card

However, for those refugees who are not employed or do not wish to obtain a Residence Card, the extension of temporary protection will allow them to remain in the territory of Poland. The possibility to apply for a residence permit is optional.

Following the European Commission’s decision to extend temporary protection, there is a good chance that the temporary protection, which expires on 24 August, will be extended until at least 4 March 2024.

WHAT DO WE RECOMMEND?

In our opinion, obtaining a residence card for refugees from Ukraine is a very good solution and a basis for further legalization of their stay in Poland. Unfortunately, the geopolitical situation is still very unstable and no one can predict when Ukrainian refugees will be able to return home. For the time being, obtaining a Residence Card is optional, but it is possible that a law will come into force obliging all refugees to obtain a residence permit in Poland.

Need advice on your situation?

Contact us on one of our numbers:

+48 735 460 057

+48 532 317 831