On March 5, 2026, new, more stringent regulations regarding the legal residence of Ukrainian citizens in Poland came into effect. While temporary protection has been generally extended, a key obligation has been introduced that should not be overlooked under any circumstances. Individuals who obtained a PESEL number with UKR status solely based on a declaration must urgently confirm their identity at the office. The deadline is August 31, 2026. Find out who exactly this requirement applies to and how to complete the necessary formalities to avoid problems.
March 5, 2026 – a new chapter in migration law
In early March, the Polish government implemented amended regulations that phase out some of the existing solutions from the so-called special act. In accordance with the decision of the Council of the European Union, legal stay of Ukrainian citizens in Poland has been extended until March 4, 2027. However, this does not mean that all refugees can sleep peacefully without taking any additional measures.
For a specific group of people, an absolute requirement has been introduced to update their data at Polish offices. This is a necessary condition for continuing to legally reside in Poland, work, and receive social benefits.
PESEL UKR changes 2026 – who is subject to the obligation to visit the office?
The requirement to report to the municipal office applies to only persons who have been assigned a PESEL UKR number based on a declaration – i.e. without presenting a valid travel document (e.g. biometric passport) with a photo.
If at the time of crossing the border or obtaining a PESEL number in 2022 you did not have a valid foreign passport and your data was entered on the basis of a birth certificate, an invalid national document or an identity declaration only – You must act by August 31, 2026 at the latest.
What are the consequences of failing to complete the formalities?
Ignoring this deadline carries very serious consequences. Failure to confirm your identity at the office based on a valid passport will result in from 1 September 2026 you will lose your UKR status.
Loss of this status means immediate deprivation of:
- The right to legally perform work under simplified conditions.
- Access to free public health care (NFZ).
- The right to receive family and social benefits, such as 800+
After losing temporary protection, such Ukrainian citizens will be treated according to the general rules applicable to foreigners from third countries, which will significantly complicate all procedures.
How to update data step by step?
The procedure is relatively simple, but requires an in-person appearance. Here’s what you need to do:
- Get a valid passport: If you do not have it yet, you must obtain a Ukrainian foreign passport at a consulate or at a special passport point (e.g. DP “Dokument” office).
- Make an appointment at the office: Contact the nearest municipal or city office that handles matters related to the PESEL register.
- Submit an application and update your details: During your visit, the official will check your new, valid travel document and update the information in the system, ultimately confirming your identity.
How do the 2026 PESEL UKR changes affect the phone app?
It is also worth remembering that the act coming into force on March 5th introduces technological changes. The current electronic residence document Diia.pl, available in the mObywatel application, formally changes its name. From now on, it operates as Temporary Protection Document.
If your data is complete and your identity is confirmed by your passport, all you need to do is keep the application on your phone up to date to continue conveniently proving your rights in Poland.
Sources: Gov.pl portal / Journal of Laws of the Republic of Poland / Polish Press Agency (PAP)
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