Beginning January 1, 2026, significant changes will take effect for foreigners living in Poland. Under the new regulations, applicants for a Polish identification number (PESEL) or those completing temporary address registration will now be required to appear in person at the local city hall.

Currently, these formalities can be handled by proxy; however, this option will be discontinued as of January 1, 2026. The move aims to improve data accuracy and residency verification across the country.

The PESEL number is a critical personal identifier in Poland, required for numerous everyday and administrative processes, including tax reporting, opening a bank account, obtaining medical coverage, and accessing other public services. Meanwhile, temporary address registration remains mandatory for all foreign nationals residing in Poland, regardless of visa or residence status.

Further adjustments will follow on February 1, 2026, affecting child benefit entitlements for foreign nationals. To qualify for the full state-funded child benefit, foreign parents must be registered with the Polish social security system (ZUS) as either employed or self-employed.

Foreign nationals who are registered as unemployed will still be able to claim a partial (limited) benefit, but full support will be reserved for those actively contributing to social security.

These policy changes reflect Poland’s ongoing efforts to enhance administrative transparency, ensure fair access to social programs, and encourage formal participation in the local economy by foreign residents.

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