From 27 April 2026, significant changes to the legalisation of residence for foreigners in Poland come into effect. The centrepiece of the reform is the launch of MOS 2.0 – the new primary platform for submitting residence applications. In addition, from 4 May 2026, a new residence document for Ukrainian nationals will be introduced: the CUKR residence permit card.

MOS 2.0 – Full Digitalisation of Residence Proceedings

From 27 April 2026, applications for a temporary residence permit, permanent residence permit, and EU long-term resident permit may be submitted exclusively online via the MOS 2.0 system.

Important: paper applications that do not reach the relevant regional office (urząd wojewódzki) before 27 April 2026 will not be processed – regardless of when they were sent.

How Does MOS 2.0 Work?

The new system allows users to create an account and complete the entire application process online. Accounts can be created by adult foreigners, as well as parents, guardians, or curators acting on behalf of minors. Authorised representatives cannot create an account on behalf of a foreigner, though they may assist with preparing documents and completing the application.

The application process consists of four steps:

1. Registration and login to the system.
2. Completing and submitting the application.
3. Signing documents using a trusted profile (Profil Zaufany), qualified electronic signature, or personal signature.
4. Attaching the required supporting documents in electronic form.

The most commonly required documents include: a photo, scans of all pages of the passport, proof of payment of fees, and attachments signed electronically by the employer, university, or programme organiser.

When Does the Paper Form Still Apply?

Not all proceedings will be covered by digitalisation. Paper applications will continue to be required for, among others:

• intra-corporate transfers (ICT),
• long-term mobility under a transfer,
• certain family reunification cases,
• selected cases involving family members of Polish, EU, and UK nationals residing outside Poland.

The CUKR Residence Card for Ukrainian Nationals

From 4 May 2026, a new residence document will be introduced – the CUKR card, replacing the existing arrangements linked to UKR status.

Key features of the new document:

• valid for 3 years,
• confirms temporary residence permission under special provisions,
• provides free access to the labour market without the need for a separate work permit,
• no obligation to notify the labour office of employment.

This change will significantly simplify obligations for both Ukrainian nationals and their employers.

How to Prepare for the Changes?

Anyone planning to submit a residence application should act now:

• set up a trusted profile (Profil Zaufany),
• prepare electronic copies of all required documents,
• make sure that any necessary attachments can be signed electronically by the employer or other authorised institution.

Being well prepared will help avoid delays and administrative issues when submitting applications after 27 April 2026.

Do you have questions about legalising the residence of foreign employees or employer obligations? Get in touch – at Easybooks, we support businesses with HR and accounting matters at every stage.