Poland PESEL Number: Importance, Eligibility, Documentation & Procedure

If you’re planning to stay in Poland for more than a few months, whether you’re from the European Union or elsewhere, you’ll need a PESEL number. The PESEL (Powszechny Elektroniczny System Ewidencji Ludności) is Poland’s universal system for registering its population. 

It’s an 11-digit identification number assigned to every resident in Poland, including foreigners. This number is crucial for a variety of services, including taxation, opening a bank account, and even getting a driving license.

In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the PESEL number, including how to obtain it, the required documents, and the benefits it offers.

What is the PESEL Number?

The PESEL number is a national identification number utilised in Poland for various administrative and legal purposes. It consists of 11 digits in the format YYMMDDPPPPK, where:

YY: Last two digits of your birth year.

MM: Month of birth.

DD: Day of birth.

PPPP: A unique number assigned to you.

K: A checksum number.

The PESEL number helps authorities track individuals and their activities within Poland, including healthcare, taxes, social security, and more.

Why Do You Need a PESEL Number in Poland?

A PESEL number is essential for a wide range of services and legal requirements in Poland. Listed below are some of the reasons you might need a PESEL number:

• Taxation: To settle tax obligations in Poland, you need to possess a PESEL number. Without it, you cannot interact with the Polish tax office.
• Opening a Bank Account: Many banks in Poland need a PESEL number to open an account.
• Driving License: To obtain a Polish driving license, a PESEL number is required.
• Business Operations: If you wish to start a business in Poland, having a PESEL number is a prerequisite.
• Social Security: The PESEL number is used for social security and pension contributions.

Who is Eligible for a PESEL Number?

In Poland, the following individuals are eligible for a PESEL number:

• Foreigners with Residency: If you’re staying in Poland for more than 30 days, you’ll receive your PESEL number automatically upon registering your residency.
• Foreigners without Permanent Residency: If you’re unable to register your permanent residency but need a PESEL number, you can apply for one at a local municipality office.
• Ukrainian Nationals: Following the crisis in Ukraine, citizens of Ukraine who have stayed in Poland since February 2022 may also be eligible for a PESEL number.
• Family Members of Foreign Nationals: The families of foreign nationals living in Poland are also eligible for a PESEL number if they meet the residency criteria.

How to Apply for a Polish PESEL Number?

Step 1: Prepare the Documentation

To apply for a PESEL number, you’ll need to submit several documents, including:

• Proof of Identity: Passport or other official identification.
• Proof of Residency: You must provide proof of residency if you plan to stay in Poland for longer than 30 days.
• Completed Application Form: The application can be filled in person at a municipality office or online.

Step 2: Submit the Application

Once you have all the required paperwork, you can go to the township or local municipality office and submit your application. You can upload your supporting documentation using the official portal if you’re applying online.

Step 3: Receive Your PESEL Number

The application process is typically free of charge, and if all documents are in order, you will be notified of your PESEL number shortly. You’ll receive your official PESEL number once it has been processed by the authorities.

Required Documents for PESEL Registration

Here’s a list of the key documents needed for registering your PESEL number:

• Proof of Identity: Passport, national ID, or any official government-issued document.
• Proof of Residency: A lease agreement, utility bills, or a residence card.
• Application Form: Completed and signed application form for PESEL registration.
• Photograph: A colour photo of the applicant (35 x 45 mm).
• Fingerprint Details: For minors, fingerprint details may also be required.

PESEL for Foreigners vs Polish Citizens

While Polish citizens are automatically assigned a PESEL number at birth, foreigners must apply for it when they decide to live in Poland long-term. If you’re a foreigner who has recently arrived in Poland, here’s what you should know:

• Foreigners with Residency: If you establish your residence in Poland, your PESEL number is issued automatically.

• Foreigners without Residency: If you do not plan to register your residence, you can still apply for a PESEL number through a municipal office, especially if you need it for legal or administrative purposes.

Common Problems with PESEL Numbers

While the PESEL number is widely used, there are a few common issues that individuals may face:

• Privacy Concerns: Since the PESEL number contains personal details, it could lead to privacy violations if it falls into the wrong hands.
• Identity Theft: If someone misuses your PESEL number, it could lead to fraud or identity theft.
• System Errors: Mistakes in entering or processing the PESEL number can result in mismatches or identification issues.
• Over-Reliance: Many systems and services in Poland rely heavily on the PESEL number, so any issues with it could cause significant problems.

Conclusion

The PESEL number is an essential part of living and working in Poland. Whether you’re a foreigner planning to stay for an extended period or a local citizen, it’s crucial for accessing government services, registering your business, and participating in various legal and financial processes. 

If you need assistance with obtaining your PESEL number or have any questions about the process, feel free to contact our team at OnDemand International.