As of 27 April 2026, the MOS ICT system (Case Handling Module) has been launched for the electronic submission of selected applications concerning the legalization of foreigners’ stay in Poland.
This is an important change both for individuals applying for residence permits and for employers hiring foreign nationals.
Which applications must be submitted electronically?
From the above date, applications for the following permits must be submitted exclusively via the MOS portal:
a) temporary residence permit,
b) permanent residence permit,
c) EU long-term resident permit.
This means that the standard paper-based submission method for these applications has been replaced with an electronic system.
What about paper applications sent by post?
Paper applications that were mailed but were not received by the Voivodeship Office before 27 April 2026 will not be examined and will remain without consideration.
In this case, the date of posting is irrelevant — the decisive factor is the date the application is received by the office.
Which matters must still be submitted in paper form?
Certain categories of temporary residence applications must still be submitted in the traditional paper form under the existing rules. This applies to applications submitted:
1. In connection with intra-corporate transfer
a) for the purpose of performing work under an intra-corporate transfer;
b) for the purpose of long-term mobility of a managerial employee, specialist, or trainee.
2. In family-related matters when the foreigner stays outside Poland
a) for the purpose of family reunification where the foreigner concerned remains outside Poland;
b) for a family member of a Polish citizen, an EU Member State citizen, or a citizen of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland — where the foreigner concerned remains outside Poland;
c) for a person maintaining family life within the meaning of the Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms with a Polish citizen, an EU Member State citizen, or a citizen of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland — provided that the foreigner remains outside Poland.
What does this mean in practice?
The new MOS system is intended to streamline procedures and accelerate the handling of foreigners’ cases. At the same time, it requires proper account registration, correct completion of the application form, and attachment of all required documents.
Formal errors or missing attachments may prolong the proceedings or result in a request to supplement deficiencies.
How can we help?
Our law firm provides comprehensive assistance in matters related to the legalization of foreigners’ stay in Poland, including:• analysis of residence permit grounds,
• preparation and submission of applications,
• representation before the Voivodeship Office,
• support for employers hiring foreign nationals,
• appeals and further administrative proceedings.
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