Poland Launches MOS 2.0: How Foreigners Can Legalize Their Stay Online in 2026

Poland is launching the new MOS 2.0 system for the online legalization of foreigners. Find out how to submit documents remotely, what the requirements are, and what will change for Ukrainians in 2026

Legal assistance on migration issues for Ukrainians in Ukraine and abroad

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Poland is preparing a major digital overhaul of its immigration system. As reported by the government portal www.gov.pl, the country is launching a new state platform, MOS 2.0, which will allow foreigners to apply for legal residency entirely online. This is one of the most significant changes in immigration procedures in recent years, and it is expected to significantly simplify the process for applicants.

When will the new MOS 2.0 system go live?

Starting April 27, 2026, applications for temporary or permanent residence permits, as well as applications for EU long-term resident status, can only be submitted online via the new MOS portal.

Once the system is launched, paper applications will be completely phased out, and all procedures will be transitioned to a digital format.

At the same time, foreigners whose legal stay expires before April 27, 2026, or within approximately two weeks after that date, are advised not to delay submitting their documents. In such situations, it is advisable to submit a paper application before the new system is launched.

Please note that paper documents must be delivered to the provincial office no later than April 26, 2026. The date of mailing is irrelevant—what counts is the date the application is received by the office.

If documents are received after the deadline, they will not be considered and will be left unprocessed.

How will the MOS 2.0 system work?

The new platform will allow most procedures to be completed remotely, without the need for an initial visit to the office. Specifically, users will be able to:

● fill out the application form online;

● save the application and return to it later;

● upload the required documents;

● submit the application remotely.

Authentication will be carried out via the government service login.gov.pl — using Profil Zaufany or other electronic identification tools.

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How do I apply for legalization of stay?

The document submission procedure in MOS 2.0 will consist of three main steps:

1. Filling out the electronic application form.

2. Uploading documents.

3. Signing the application with an electronic signature.

After that, the applicant will receive a UPO—an official confirmation of document acceptance. This document effectively replaces the traditional stamp in the passport.

Do you need to visit the office in person?

Despite the digitization of the process, in-person visits are not entirely eliminated. A foreign national may be summoned to the provincial office for:

● fingerprinting;

● identity verification;

● submission of additional documents.

In other words, the system will combine online submission with mandatory elements of in-person identification.

What documents do you need to prepare?

To submit an application, you must prepare digital copies of the documents in advance. The main list includes:

● a digital photo;

● a scan of all passport pages;

● proof of payment of the administrative fee.

In some cases, the system may automatically request additional information—for example, from an employer or educational institution.

How much does it cost to submit documents?

The processing fee depends on the type of permit:

● 340–640 PLN — application review;

● 100 PLN — issuance of a residence card.

Authorities also advise against waiting until the last day to submit documents to avoid technical or organizational difficulties.

The launch of MOS 2.0 will significantly simplify the legalization process for foreigners, particularly Ukrainians, who constitute one of the largest groups of applicants. At the same time, it is important to prepare documents correctly and take all requirements into account. In complex cases—for example, when changing the basis for residence or submitting non-standard applications—it is advisable to consult specialists. In particular, through Visit Ukraine, immigration lawyers’ services are available to help Ukrainians properly prepare documents and avoid rejections.

We remind you! Ukrainians in Poland must update their PESEL UKR data by August 31, 2026. Read about who is required to do this, what documents are needed, and what will happen if the requirements are not met.

Photo: aileenchik / Freepik

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