Ukrainian citizens in Poland
The special act has been phased out. We explain how temporary protection and the CUKR residence card work and what threatens you when protection expires.
From 5 March 2026 the temporary protection of Ukrainian citizens is no longer based on the special act of 2022. Its rules are set out in the Act on Granting Protection to Foreigners, and the stay is linked to the UKR status at the PESEL number. From 4 May 2026 you can also apply for the CUKR residence card.
In this section you will find guides on what has changed, who can submit a CUKR application and how, when temporary protection expires and on what terms you can work.
Start with two questions: do you have a PESEL with the UKR status and since when. This determines whether you meet the conditions for the CUKR card. We describe this in the guide who can submit a CUKR application. If you first want to understand the new rules, read UKR status and temporary protection.
CUKR card
The CUKR card for Ukrainian citizens: valid 3 years, temporary residence permit, work without a permit, fees of 100 PLN and 340 PLN, obligations after collecting the card.
Who can apply
Who can apply for the CUKR card: UKR status on 4 June 2025 and on the day of the application, 365 days of status, children born in Poland and grounds for refusal.
How to apply
The CUKR application only online in MOS: fees of 100 and 340 PLN, photo, signature, form (Journal of Laws 2026, item 530), the 180-day deadline and collection in 60 days.
CUKR or ordinary card
CUKR card or a temporary residence permit: conditions, fees, deadlines and effects on temporary protection. Art. 45 of the Act of 23 January 2026 and Art. 42c-42x.
UKR status
What the Act of 23 January 2026 changed: temporary protection in the Act on Granting Protection, PESEL with UKR status, confirmation of identity by 31 August 2026.
Loss of UKR status
When the temporary protection of a Ukrainian citizen expires: leaving for over 30 days, no PESEL application within 30 days, a residence permit. What happens to the UKR status.
Work
Can a Ukrainian citizen work without a permit: temporary protection, Art. 41 of the Act of 23 January 2026 for 3 years, the CUKR card, a written contract and notification.
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