PESEL UKR in Poland must be updated by August 31, 2026: who is affected and what happens if you don’t

Ukrainians in Poland must update their PESEL UKR information by August 31, 2026. Find out who is required to do so, what documents are needed, and what happens if you fail to comply

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Ukrainians residing in Poland who have a PESEL number with UKR status must verify their information and update it if necessary by August 31, 2026. This is reported by in-poland.com in connection with changes to Polish legislation.

This is not just a formality: failure to update information in a timely manner may affect your legal residency status, access to social benefits, and medical services.

What is PESEL UKR and why is it important?

PESEL is an identification number in Poland used to access government systems. After the outbreak of full-scale war, Ukrainians were given the opportunity to obtain a PESEL with UKR status, which confirms temporary protection. Having this status grants the right to:

● legally reside in Poland;

● work officially;

● receive social benefits (including the 800+ program);

● access NFZ medical care;

● open bank accounts;

● use government services;

● enroll children in school or kindergarten.

At the same time, all these opportunities directly depend on the accuracy of the data in the registry.

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Why is it necessary to update your data by August 2026?

Changes in Polish legislation require that the information in the PESEL registry match valid identity documents. Failure to do so may result in:

● issues with UKR status;

● restricted access to social benefits;

● difficulties with medical care;

● risks to legal residence in the country.

That is why verifying and updating data is mandatory for many Ukrainians.

Reminder: if you are already abroad or just planning a trip, it’s worth taking care of health insurance in advance. Ukrainians can purchase a travel insurance policy online via Visit Ukraine — this will help avoid unnecessary expenses and simplify access to medical services abroad.

Who must update their PESEL UKR?

First and foremost, this applies to those who obtained a PESEL without a valid foreign passport. For example, if the number was obtained based on a declaration (oświadczenie), an internal passport, copies of documents, documents issued by a consul, a birth certificate (for children), or other temporary documents.

In such cases, you must verify your identity with a valid foreign passport and make the necessary changes to the registry.

In what other cases is it necessary to update your information?

Updating is also mandatory if:

● the foreign passport used to obtain the PESEL is no longer valid;

● you received a new passport after registration;

● you have changed your first name, last name, or other personal data;

● a child received a PESEL without a passport but later obtained one;

● there are errors in the registry;

● you wish to add a new document to the system.

Important: If you obtained a new foreign passport after receiving your PESEL, you must update your data.

How is data updated?

To update your information, you must contact the relevant authority in Poland and verify your identity with valid documents. The procedure involves verifying data in the registry, submitting current documents, and making changes to the PESEL system.

We remind you! The special law for Ukrainian refugees has expired in Poland, but the temporary protection regime remains in effect. Read about the rules regarding stay, residence, and social assistance that will apply to Ukrainians after March 5, 2026.

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