If you’re a foreigner residing in Poland, obtaining a PESEL number (the Polish acronym for “Powszechny Elektroniczny System Ewidencji Ludności,” or “Universal Electronic System for Registration of the Population”) is often necessary for various administrative tasks. Here’s a guide on how to acquire a PESEL number, whether through residence registration or by a separate application.
Who Needs a PESEL Number?
A PESEL number is essential for foreign residents in Poland, especially if required by government agencies like the Social Security Agency (ZUS) or the tax office. It is the only identification number accepted for tax purposes for regular employees in Poland, replacing the Tax Identification Number (NIP) previously used. If you register your residence in Poland for over 30 days, a PESEL number will be automatically assigned to you. However, if you cannot register your residence, you may still need to apply for one.
How to Apply for a PESEL Number
Eligibility Criteria
Automatic Assignment: If you have registered your residence for over 30 days, a PESEL number will be assigned to you automatically.
By Application: If you cannot register your residence but require a PESEL number, you can apply at any local municipality or township office. This applies to foreigners working, studying, or fulfilling other obligations that necessitate a PESEL number.
Required Documents
When applying, prepare the following:
Application Form: Download and complete the PESEL application form at home, or obtain a form at the local office. Detailed instructions on filling out the form are available (see materials below).
Identification Document: Bring a document confirming your identity and any other data entered in the application form, such as a passport.
For those using a proxy to submit the application, contact the office directly for instructions on handling this process.
Important: When filling out your application, include the legal basis requiring you to have a PESEL number. Agencies like ZUS or the tax office should provide you with this information if they require you to obtain a PESEL number.
Where to Submit the Application
Submit the application to the local municipality or township office in the following cases:
If you are residing in Poland: Apply at the local office where you live.
If employed and unable to register your residence: Apply at the office of the district where your employer is headquartered.
If unemployed or employed by a foreign company: Submit the application at the Śródmieście District Office in Warsaw.
Legal Basis for PESEL Number Assignment
The process of assigning a PESEL number follows the Population Registration Act of 25 September 2010 and the Regulation of the Minister of Internal Affairs of 4 January 2012 on assigning or changing PESEL numbers. These laws ensure that all registered residents in Poland, including foreigners, are included in the national identification system.
Format of the PESEL Number
A PESEL number consists of 11 digits:
- YY – Year of birth (last two digits)
- MM – Month of birth
- DD – Day of birth
- PPPP – Random number, where the last digit indicates gender (odd for male, even for female)
- K – Control digit, randomly generated
Additional Resources
For more detailed instructions, download the guide on completing the PESEL application form:
- Instructions on How to Complete an Application Form for a PESEL Number (PDF, 2.01MB)
By following these steps, you can successfully obtain your PESEL number and fulfill any administrative obligations in Poland. Whether you’re an employee, student, or simply residing in Poland, having a PESEL number streamlines interactions with Polish agencies and enables you to meet necessary legal requirements.
Fees
Our firm offers comprehensive assistance with this process, including preparing a power of attorney, completing the application, and submitting and collecting the decision on PESEL assignment.
Our fee for this service is 1,200 PLN gross (approximately 300 EUR).
We can manage the entire process remotely for your convenience.
The official will review and accept your application immediately. You will be informed of the PESEL number assignment once approved.
