ENPL (Polski) Book consultation
ServicesPricingGuidesFAQContactENPL (Polski)

Home › Guides › Residence card (karta pobytu)

Residence card (karta pobytu) in Poland: fee, issue and collection

By MałgorzataPublished Updated

The residence card (karta pobytu) proves your identity, nationality and right to stay in Poland. The first card is normally issued automatically after your permit decision becomes final and you have paid the 100 zł card fee, and you collect it in person.

Short answer. Pay the card fee separately from the stamp duty, and attach the proof to your application so the card can be issued without delay.

What the card does

  • Confirms your identity and nationality while you stay in Poland.
  • Confirms your residence permit.
  • Lets you cross the Polish border repeatedly without a visa when you show a valid travel document.
  • Lets you travel in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180 days, if you meet short-stay conditions in the other country.

How long it is valid

  • Temporary permit: as long as the permit, from 3 months to 3 years.
  • Permanent permit: 10 years.
  • EU long-term resident permit: 5 years.

Issue and fee

  • The first card is usually issued automatically, without a separate application.
  • It is issued only once the decision is final and the 100 zł fee is paid. The fee is separate from the stamp duty and paid to a different account.
  • If you want your registration address on the card, provide proof of registration for stay longer than 2 months with the fee.

Collecting it

The office tells you when the card is ready (for example by text, e-mail or a message in the system). You collect it in person, with your valid travel document. The exceptions are children under 6 and people who cannot attend because of illness or disability.

Replacement

For a temporary permit, the next card is normally issued without a new application once you receive a new permit. You apply for a replacement if the card is lost or damaged. For indefinite permits the next card is replaced on the holder’s application: file it at least 30 days before the card expires. If a card is lost or damaged, notify the office that issued it within 3 days, and apply for a replacement within 14 days of the reason for replacement (art. 230 and 232).

Not legal adviceThis guide explains formalities. It is not legal advice from an attorney and does not replace the official instructions on gov.pl.

Sources

Facts checked against the official MOS portal on 25 Oct 2026. Rules and amounts change, so check the source before you act.

Need help with this? Book a consultation