Please remember that, since 2 August 2021, new templates and formats of residence documents have been in force in Poland for:
- citizens of the European Union,
- citizens of Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Switzerland,
- their family members.
Please note that residence documents issued before 2 August 2021 will cease to be valid after 3 August 2026.
Purpose and scope
On 2 August 2021, new provisions came into force introducing updated templates and formats for residence documents issued to nationals of EU Member States, as well as to nationals of Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Switzerland, and their family members.
The purpose was to implement Regulation (EU) 2019/1157 of the European Parliament and of the Council, aimed at improving security standards and harmonising the format of documents issued to EU citizens exercising their right to free movement.
Features of new documents
The new registration of stay certificates for EU nationals and the documents confirming the right of permanent residence now use a secure format similar to a plastic residence card.
The card bears, on the front side, the two-letter country code of the Member State issuing the card (PL), printed in negative in a blue rectangle and encircled by 12 yellow stars.
The new documents contain a biometric facial image of the holder; however, fingerprints are not included for EU citizens.
In turn, residence cards and permanent residence cards issued to the family members from outside the EU include the holder’s fingerprints.
Registration of stay certificates for EU citizens have a period of validity of ten years, while standard residence cards for the family members from outside the EU expire after five years.
Validity of existing documents and pending proceedings
All existing residence documents issued up to and including 1 August 2021 remain valid for the period for which they were originally granted, but in any event no later than 3 August 2026.
During this time, individuals may submit an application to the competent Voivodeship Office to replace their current paper-format certificate with the new document.
How can we assist you?
Our team can assist you with completing the necessary paperwork.
If you have any require further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us.