CUKR residence card after more than a month of operation – what do we already know?

As of May 4, 2026, Ukrainian citizens with UKR status can apply for a residence card with the annotation "Previously a holder of temporary protection," also known as a CUKR card. After more than a month of the new regulations being in effect, it's now possible to answer frequently asked questions and assess initial experiences with the new procedure.

Who can apply for the CUKR card?

The CUKR card can be obtained by citizens of Ukraine and certain members of their families who, among others:

• have a valid PESEL number with UKR status,

• had UKR status on 4 June 2025,

• have had UKR status continuously for at least 365 days,

• submit the application electronically via the MOS2 system.

What does the CUKR card give you?

The new permit is issued for a period of three years. The cardholder may:

• perform work without having to obtain a work permit,

• run a business,

• travel within the Schengen area in accordance with applicable regulations,

• include the period of stay in the required internship when applying for long-term EU resident status.

The Office for Foreigners emphasizes that the procedure is simplified and does not require the submission of documents regarding income, employment, or place of residence. Applications can only be submitted electronically via the MOS2 system.

What do foreigners ask most often?

From the questions sent to the law firm and the discussions held on the Internet, it appears that the most doubts concern:

• Is it worth switching from UKR status to the CUKR card?

• what documents should be prepared for children,

• whether errors in the application may result in refusal,

• what will happen to the UKR status after the CUKR card is issued.

After the first few weeks of the new regulations being in effect, there's been considerable interest in the new procedure. However, questions are increasingly posed not only about the conditions for obtaining the card, but also about the consequences of switching from temporary protection to temporary residence.

Expert recommendation

The CUKR card can be a very beneficial solution for those planning a long-term stay and work in Poland. However, this doesn't mean it's the best solution for everyone.

Before submitting an application, it's worth analyzing your personal situation, your plans for your stay in Poland, and the implications of transitioning from temporary protection to temporary residence. Our law firm's experience shows that most questions no longer concern the procedure itself, but rather the legal consequences of choosing a new basis for residence.

Therefore, the decision to apply for a CUKR card should be preceded by an individual analysis and should not result solely from the fact that a new possibility of legalising stay has appeared.