Ukrainian citizens who find themselves in Poland face the issue of obtaining a temporary document. The “gray passport” or Temporary Foreigner's Travel Document (TDP) allows you to confirm your identity, travel to Schengen countries and access basic rights. Find out more about who can get this document, what steps to take to obtain it, and more

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For Ukrainians who temporarily reside in Poland and face the problem of renewing their passports due to military operations or other difficulties, there is a special document - the so-called “gray passport”. This document helps to ensure the right to travel, employment and other important needs.

Let's look at how it works and how to obtain it.

What is a gray passport in Poland?

The official name of this document is Temporary Foreigner's Travel Document (Tymczasowy Dokument Podróży Cudzoziemca, TDP). It is issued to foreigners who, due to extraordinary circumstances, cannot obtain a new passport of their country. Due to its gray color, the document has received an unofficial name among migrants.

The document serves as a temporary passport, allowing its holder to travel, prove their identity and legally stay outside the country.

Who can get a gray passport?

The document is available only to those who meet strict criteria:

1. Persons with international protection or temporary status. For example, refugees who cannot return to their homeland because of a threat to their lives.

2. Citizens of Ukraine who have lost their passport or whose validity has expired. This is especially true for those who cannot obtain a new document due to the closure of consulates or military operations.

3. Other categories of foreigners with legal status in Poland, e.g. those with humanitarian visas or residence permits for special reasons.

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How to obtain a gray passport?

The process of obtaining a TDP includes the following steps:

1. Submission of the application

The application is submitted to the Office for Foreigners (Urząd do Spraw Cudzoziemców). To do this, you need to make an appointment or submit documents through an electronic system.

2. Preparation of documents

The following documents are required when submitting the application:

- an identity card (old passport, if available);

- documents confirming your status in Poland;

- other evidence of your nationality.

3. Payment of the fee

As a rule, there is a fee for obtaining a document, but discounts or privileges are available for certain categories of persons.

4. Consideration of the application

The documents are checked, after which a decision is made. In case of a positive result, you will receive a “gray passport” valid for one year.

Important notes:

TDP is limited to a period of 12 months. After that, it will need to be renewed if the circumstances have not changed.

Obtaining a “gray passport” does not exempt you from the need to apply to the consulate of your country for a new passport as soon as it becomes possible.

What documents are required to obtain a gray passport in Poland?

In order to obtain a “gray passport” or a temporary travel document for foreigners, a citizen of Ukraine must provide the following documents:

1. A completed application for issuance or replacement of the document.

2. Two current photos that meet the passport requirements.

3. A photocopy of the residence card (residence card).

4. Documents confirming the impossibility of obtaining a Ukrainian passport, for example:

- decision on granting complementary protection;

- humanitarian visa;

- confirmation of statelessness status;

- other official confirmations.

5. Proof of payment of stamp duty.

An application for a “gray passport” is submitted to the relevant Foreigners' Office at the place of residence in Poland. Most often, this is done in voivodeship offices dealing with foreigners.

The application process

1. Submitting the application. You can do it

- in person (it is recommended to register your visit in advance via the online system);

- by mail (sending documents by registered mail in an envelope).

2. Data verification. All submitted documents are checked, after which a decision is made on the issuance of the document.

3. Receiving the document. If the application is approved, you will receive a “gray passport”, which is usually valid for one to two years.

Detailed information is available on the official websites of voivodeship offices and government agencies.

What rights and opportunities does the gray passport provide?

A temporary travel document for foreigners opens up the following opportunities:

- Travel to other Schengen countries for a short period of time without additional visas.

- Legal work and residence in Poland in accordance with the status granted.

- Identification during official procedures.

However, it is worth remembering that the “gray passport” does not replace a full-fledged foreign passport and is used only in exceptional cases.

Replacement and costs

Reasons for replacing the document:

- Change of identification data (name, surname, etc.).

- Significant changes in the owner's appearance that make identification difficult.

- Damage or loss of the document.

An application for replacement must be submitted within 14 days after the grounds for replacement arise.

Cost of the document

The standard fee for issuance is PLN 350.

In case of loss or damage due to the fault of the holder - PLN 700, in case of repeated cases - up to PLN 1050.

Discounts are available - up to PLN 175 if you have the appropriate status.

Features and limitations of the gray passport

1. Validity period. Usually from one to two years. After the expiration date, you must apply for renewal.

2. Geographical restrictions. The document is valid mainly in the Schengen countries.

3. It does not replace a foreign passport. It should be used only if it is impossible to obtain a national document.

Please note! The process of obtaining a “gray passport” can be complicated due to the requirements and legal nuances. If you need help with the paperwork or resolving issues related to your status in Poland, please contact our migration lawyers via the link in a few clicks. Experienced specialists will help you prepare all the necessary documents, submit an application and get the desired result.

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