Icon
Come back

2 min

19 Nov. 2024

1395

Should Ukrainians change Pesel UKR to CUKR card: a detailed explanation

Documents
Popular
Für Flüchtlinge
Poland
Should Ukrainians change Pesel UKR to CUKR card: a detailed explanation

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

Legal assistance on migration issues for Ukrainians in Ukraine and abroad
Legal assistance on migration issues for Ukrainians in Ukraine and abroad
GET


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.




Don't want to miss important updates and useful articles? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter!




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.


Want to know more? Read the latest news and useful materials about Ukraine and the world in the News section.




Our recommendation for a safe and comfortable trip: 


Visit Ukraine Insurance - insurance for a safe stay abroad without unnecessary expenses;

Green Card - compulsory car insurance for traveling abroad;

Visit Ukraine Tickets - book tickets for buses, trains, and airplanes to/from Ukraine and between cities around the world;

Private Lawyer service - professional legal support on visa and migration issues;

Visit Ukraine Merch - buy patriotic clothing and accessories with worldwide delivery.




© 2018-2024, Visit Ukraine. Use, copying or reprinting of materials on this site is permitted only with a link (hyperlink for online publications) to Visit Ukraine.

All rights reserved.


Häufig

gestellte Fragen

How to obtain temporary protection in Poland in 2024?

In order to obtain protection, you should contact any commune authority immediately after your arrival in Poland and apply for a PESEL UKR number.

What is an urząd in Poland?

When does the status of Ukr in Poland expire?

Recommended articles

1 min

Travel Vorokhta and Urych: Ukrainian villages are included in the list of the world's best tourist destinations for the first time

Vorokhta and Urych: Ukrainian villages are included in the list of the world's best tourist destinations for the first time

Every year, the United Nations Tourism Organization determines a list of unique villages that are a must-visit for those who want to see authentic culture and traditions. In 2024, the list includes Ukrainian settlements Vorokhta and Urych for the first time. Find out where these villages are located, how to get there and what you can see

18 Nov. 2024

More details

2 min

Krieg 1000 Days of War in Ukraine: Events, Losses and the Resilience of the Ukrainian People

1000 Days of War in Ukraine: Events, Losses and the Resilience of the Ukrainian People

1000 days ago, russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the bloodiest and most brutal war of our time. Learn more about the unbreakable struggle of Ukrainians and the consequences of russia's invasion

19 Nov. 2024

More details

2 min

Arbeit The State Employment Service has launched a job search app: what services are now available online?

The State Employment Service has launched a job search app: what services are now available online?

Recently, it became known that the State Employment Service of Ukraine, together with its partners, has created a new application for job search in Ukraine. Learn more about the initiative, how to download the app and its functionality

19 Nov. 2024

More details

3 min

Travel How big is Ukraine? Where is the best place to go for those planning a trip for the first time?

How big is Ukraine? Where is the best place to go for those planning a trip for the first time?

Ukraine is a geographical expanse that covers vast territories by European standards. Here, the past meets the future, traditions coexist with modernity, and the hospitality of the locals makes every tourist feel at home. Find out how big, majestic and interesting Ukraine really is to choose a trip that will stay in your heart

19 Nov. 2024

More details