CUKR Residence Card 2026 – how to obtain it, who can apply, and why is it worth transitioning from temporary protection?

Introduction

As of May 4, 2026, the residence legalization system for Ukrainian citizens in Poland entered a new stage. Alongside the existing temporary protection mechanism, a new possibility has emerged: obtaining a residence card bearing the annotation “Former holder of temporary protection”, commonly referred to as the CUKR residence card.

This change is directly linked to the gradual phasing out of simplified residence mechanisms and the need to prepare for the period after March 4, 2027. We discussed these changes in more detail in the article: “Residence of Ukrainian citizens in Poland after 2026 – what will the amendment change?”.

The CUKR residence card therefore serves as a bridge between temporary protection and the standard temporary residence framework provided under Polish immigration regulations.

What is the CUKR residence card and how does it differ from UKR status?

The CUKR residence card is a document confirming the granting of a temporary residence permit under special conditions. It is issued for a period of 3 years and is intended for individuals who have benefited from temporary protection (UKR status) and wish to transition to a more stable form of residence legalization.

The current UKR status is temporary in nature and directly linked to the temporary protection mechanism. In contrast, the CUKR residence card, as a formal temporary residence permit, provides greater legal stability because it forms part of the standard residence permit system applicable to foreigners.

Who can obtain a CUKR residence card and what are the requirements?

From March 4, 2027, two main groups may apply for the CUKR residence card:

• Ukrainian citizens and certain members of their families who arrived in Poland after February 23, 2022, due to the war and hold UKR status,
• children born in Poland after that date, provided that their mother holds a CUKR residence card.

A key requirement is possession of a PESEL number with UKR status, confirming the legality of residence under temporary protection.

To obtain a CUKR residence card, the following conditions must be met simultaneously:

• holding a valid PESEL UKR on the date of application submission and on the date the residence card is issued,
• having held PESEL UKR status on June 4, 2025 as well (except for children born in Poland whose mother holds a CUKR residence card),
• maintaining continuous UKR status for at least 365 days (except for children born in Poland whose mother holds a CUKR residence card).

Failure to meet even one of the above conditions results in refusal to grant the permit.

Obtaining a CUKR residence card involves payment of two fees:

• PLN 340 – stamp duty for granting the permit,
• PLN 100 – issuance fee for the residence card.

Why is it worth obtaining a CUKR residence card?

Obtaining a CUKR residence card offers several important benefits. Most importantly, it provides residence stability – the permit is granted for 3 years, whereas UKR status, under current regulations, remains valid only until March 4, 2027.

Additionally, the CUKR residence card:

• provides full access to the labor market without the need to obtain work permits,
• allows the holder to conduct business activities under the same conditions as Polish citizens,
• enables travel within the Schengen Area (up to 90 days within any 180-day period),
• counts toward the period required to obtain EU long-term resident status.

From a practical perspective, this is one of the safest solutions for individuals planning a longer stay in Poland.

Summary

The CUKR residence card responds to the actual needs of Ukrainian citizens who plan to remain in Poland after the end of temporary protection.

Considering the limited validity period of UKR status and possible prolonged administrative proceedings, submitting an application earlier helps avoid risks related to the need for a sudden transition to standard procedures after March 4, 2027, while also providing greater control over one’s residence situation.

If you are considering applying for a CUKR residence card or want to make sure that you meet all requirements, it is worth consulting a lawyer. Professional support helps minimize the risk of errors, streamline the procedure, and increase the chances of obtaining a positive decision.