Starting May 4, 2026, it will be possible to submit applications for a CUKR Residence Card. This is a significant change for Ukrainian citizens residing in Poland under temporary protection and for the employers who hire them.
However, it’s worth noting:
👉 Not every foreign national with UKR status is eligible to apply for this document.
What is a CUKR residence card?
The CUKR residence card is a new form of legal residence status for individuals who have been granted temporary protection in Poland.
Its introduction means it is now possible to transition from a temporary residence status to a more stable one.
This is important information for employers because:
✔️ it ensures continuity of employment
✔️ it reduces regulatory risks
✔️ it increases the predictability of HR processes
How do I submit an application?
Applications for a CUKR residence card are submitted:
👉 exclusively online at
👉 through the MOS system
This means that the entire process is initiated digitally; however—as with other procedures—the subsequent steps require contact with the office and a response to correspondence.
Who is eligible to apply for a CUKR residence card?
Only individuals who meet all of the following conditions are eligible to submit an application:
✔️ Formal Requirements
1️⃣ On the date of application, they have a current PESEL UKR status
2️⃣ On June 4, 2025, had an active PESEL UKR status
3️⃣ had PESEL UKR status continuously for at least 365 days
4️⃣ on the date the provincial governor issues the decision, will still have an active PESEL UKR status
The Most Common Risks and Mistakes
From the perspective of labor market practice, it is crucial that all conditions be met.
In practice, this means there is a risk in situations such as:
- Interruption in PESEL UKR status
- discontinuity of stay
- status was out of date as of the date of application
- loss of status during the proceedings
Furthermore, failure to meet even one of the conditions may result in the denial of the permit.
Implications for Employers
For companies that employ Ukrainian citizens, the CUKR residence card has practical implications.
👉 means greater job stability
👉 reduces the risk of gaps in legal employment
👉 facilitates long-term planning
However, this is only true if the process is carried out correctly.
Therefore, employers should:
✔️ monitor their employees’ statuses
✔️ support them in the application process
✔️ verify that the requirements are met before beginning the procedure
From the perspective of the labor market, the introduction of the CUKR residence card is another step toward stabilizing the situation of foreign nationals in Poland.
At the same time, it shows that:
👉 The process of legalizing one’s stay is becoming increasingly formalized
👉 Procedural errors have real consequences
👉 The process requires active management
Companies that have well-organized processes and monitor their employees' status reduce operational risk.
The CUKR 2026 residence card represents a significant change for foreign nationals with UKR status and for employers.
The ability to submit an application starting May 4, 2026, offers an opportunity to secure a stable residence status, but it requires meeting specific conditions and carefully preparing the necessary documentation.
In 2026, the legalization of employment and residence is a process that requires not only formal knowledge but, above all, oversight and planning.