Ukrainians residing in Poland face an important question: is it worth switching from the Pesel UKR status to the new CUKR card? This decision depends on many factors. Find out in more detail in which cases such a decision will be appropriate

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Starting in 2025, Ukrainians staying in Poland will be able to obtain a CUKR card, which allows them to legally reside and work in the country for three years. This new mechanism was created to simplify the legalization of Ukrainian refugees. However, before deciding to switch from Pesel UKR to CUKR card, it is important to weigh all the advantages and disadvantages of this process.

What is a CUKR card and what are its advantages?

The CUKR card (Central Card of Ukrainian Refugees of the Republic of Poland) provides a wide range of opportunities:

• Legal residence in Poland for 3 years without the need to obtain other permits.

• Official employment without additional documents.

• Possibility to travel abroad for up to 6 months while maintaining legal status.

The card will indicate that its holder previously had a temporary protection status (Pesel UKR), but there is no information about the place of residence or registration. At the same time, the holders are obliged to notify the voivode of any change of address within 15 days.

Loss of Pesel UKR status

Switching to the CUKR card has its drawbacks. The main one is the loss of privileges associated with the temporary protection status (Pesel UKR), such as

• Free medical care from the National Health Fund of Poland (NFZ).

• Other social guarantees provided to refugees.

If the CUKR card holder is officially employed, he/she will have access to health insurance, which will be paid from his/her salary. For the unemployed, this can be a significant disadvantage.

You should also remember to update your personal data, for example, if you change your last name or passport. Otherwise, there is a risk of losing financial assistance, including 800+ payments.

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Advantages and disadvantages of the CUKR card

Advantages:

• Long-term residence in Poland (up to 3 years).

• Possibility to work legally without additional permits.

• No restrictions on the place of residence.

Disadvantages:

• Loss of special privileges of the Pesel UKR status, such as free medical care from the National Health Fund (NHF).

• The obligation to update data when personal information changes to avoid problems with social benefits.

Who can get a CUKR card?

Ukrainians can apply for a CUKR card if they:

• Had Pesel UKR status as of March 4, 2024.

• Retain Pesel UKR status at the time of application.

• Have continuous Pesel UKR status for at least 365 days.

It is important to note that in case of leaving Poland for more than 30 days, the Pesel UKR status is lost, and with it the right to obtain a CUKR card.

How to get a CUKR card?

The application procedure is as simple as possible and takes place in several stages:

1. Collection of documents. It is necessary to prepare a passport of a citizen of Ukraine, a foreign passport or other identity document.

2. Submission of the application. The application is submitted through a specially designed online service or directly to the Main Department for Foreigners.

3. Updating the data. Before submitting the application, you should update your personal data in the Polish registration system, for example, in case of a change of surname or issuance of a new passport.

The entire registration process is carried out electronically, which makes it much easier for applicants.

Should I change my Pesel UKR card to a CUKR card?

The decision to switch to the CUKR card depends on the individual circumstances of each refugee:

• If you plan to stay in Poland for more than three years and work, the CUKR card is the best choice.

• If you enjoy social benefits and do not plan to be officially employed in the near future, you should carefully consider whether you are ready to lose these privileges.

In any case, the CUKR card is an important step towards the integration of Ukrainians into Polish society, providing long-term legal stability and new opportunities for work and development.

Solve migration issues with experts

Do you plan to stay abroad for a long period of time or need help with legalizing your status in Poland or another country? Visit Ukraine experts will help you deal with the most complex legal nuances!

Why should you choose us?

• Professional approach. A team of experienced migration lawyers will provide you with qualified support.

• Efficiency. We will help you quickly prepare documents, submit applications and resolve issues with the authorities.

• Transparency. All services are provided clearly, with an explanation of each stage of work.

Legalize your stay abroad without stress and unnecessary worries! Contact Visit Ukraine professionals here.

By the way, earlier we talked about the new rules for crossing the border with children who have temporary protection in Poland.

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