PESEL Number Guide
General Process for Foreigners
1. Registration of Residence
Who Needs to Register: Foreigners staying in Poland for more than 30 days.
Steps:
- Visit the Local Office: Go to the local City Hall (Urząd Miasta) or Commune Office (Urząd Gminy) relevant to your place of residence.
- Required Documents:
- Passport or another valid travel document.
- Visa or residence permit if applicable.
- Proof of Address: This can be a lease agreement, a letter from your host, or a hotel booking confirmation.
- Residence Registration Form: Available at the office or online on the respective office's website.
- Submit the Documents: Fill out the residence registration form and submit the completed form along with the required documents to the office.
- Receive PESEL Number: After processing your application, the office will issue a PESEL number. This can sometimes be done immediately or may take a few days.
2. Direct Application for a PESEL Number
If you are not required to register your residence but need a PESEL number for other reasons, such as employment, tax purposes, or healthcare, you can apply directly for a PESEL number.
Steps:
- Visit the Local Office: Go to the local City Hall (Urząd Miasta) or Commune Office (Urząd Gminy) relevant to your location.
- Required Documents:
- Passport or another valid travel document.
- Visa or residence permit if applicable.
- Justification for PESEL Number: Documents proving the necessity of obtaining a PESEL number, such as:
- Employment contract.
- University admission letter.
- Tax documents.
- Application Form for PESEL Number: Available at the office or online.
- Submit the Documents: Fill out the application form for the PESEL number and provide the completed form and the necessary documents to the office.
- Receive PESEL Number: After your application is processed, you will be issued a PESEL number. This can sometimes be done on the spot or may take a few days.
Specific Locations
Warsaw (Warszawa)
Visit the local City Hall (Urząd Miasta Stołecznego Warszawy). For more details, you can visit the official website of the City of Warsaw.
Krakow (Kraków)
Visit the local City Hall (Urząd Miasta Krakowa). For more details, you can visit the official website of the City of Krakow.
Gdańsk
Visit the local City Hall (Urząd Miejski w Gdańsku). For more details, you can visit the official website of the City of Gdańsk.
Wrocław
Visit the local City Hall (Urząd Miejski Wrocławia). For more details, you can visit the official website of the City of Wrocław.
Poznań
Visit the local City Hall (Urząd Miasta Poznania). For more details, you can visit the official website of the City of Poznań.
Additional Tips
- Appointments: Some offices may require you to book an appointment in advance.
- Language: If you don't speak Polish, it may be helpful to bring someone who can assist with translation, or check if the office provides assistance in English.
- Check Local Requirements: Specific requirements and procedures may vary, so it's advisable to check the official website or contact the local office beforehand.
Managing Multiple Addresses
If you have more than one address (e.g., temporary and permanent), you should register the address where you spend the majority of your time. If you move, you can update your registered address with the local office.
Steps to Update Address:
- Initial Registration: Register at the office relevant to your primary address. Provide the necessary documents and complete the forms.
- Updating Address: Notify the local office of your move. Visit the office of your new address. Provide proof of the new address and complete any required forms.
