Poland: New Requirements Forthcoming for Identification Number Applicants and for Health Benefits for Children of Foreign Nationals

According to a new law, starting from January 1, 2026, foreign nationals applying for a Polish identification number (PESEL) and foreign nationals who do not already have a PESEL who need to complete temporary address registration will be required to appear in the city hall in person (whereas currently, they can complete this by proxy, without a personal presence). The PESEL is required for tax purposes, as well as many local processes such as opening a bank account, among others. Temporary address registration is required for all foreign nationals in Poland. 

Furthermore, starting February 1, 2026, foreign nationals with children in Poland who are seeking to obtain the full government-covered financial benefit for children, will need to be registered with social security as employed or self-employed (a limited benefit will still be available for registered unemployed foreign nationals).      

This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen or send an email to [email protected].