How do I register my address (meldunek) in Poland as a foreigner?

Short answer:

If you stay in Poland for more than 3 months you must register your address (temporary stay) no later than the 30th day after you arrive at the new address. Registration is free: do it online on gov.pl with a Trusted Profile or e-ID, or in person at the commune office with your passport or residence card and a document proving your right to the flat (for example a rental agreement) or the owner's confirmation.

Why do I need to register?

Registration is an administrative record – it does not give you the right to the flat. It is needed for a PESEL number (automatic after registering for over 30 days), school or kindergarten for your children, registering a car and many official procedures.

How do I register in person?

  1. Go to the commune or city office for your new address.
  2. Take your passport or residence card and a completed form.
  3. Take a document proving your title to the flat (rental agreement, notarial deed) – or the owner's signature on the form.
  4. Use an interpreter or a trusted person if you do not speak Polish.

How do I register online?

Use the gov.pl service Register your temporary or permanent residence. You need an electronic login method (Trusted Profile, e-ID or mObywatel).

See also

How can a foreigner get a PESEL number in Poland?

How to get a PESEL number as a foreigner in Poland: free of charge, automatic after registering your address for over 30 days, or by application at the commune office.

Otwórz →

How do I apply for a residence permit and residence card in Poland?

Residence permit in Poland: apply to the voivode through the MOS system; official fees are 340 zł (temporary stay) or 440 zł (single permit), plus 100 zł for the card.

Otwórz →

How does health insurance (NFZ) work for foreigners in Poland?

Health insurance in Poland for foreigners: employees and contractors are covered through ZUS contributions; others can buy voluntary NFZ insurance (835.04 zł/month in Q2 2026).

Otwórz →

Do I have to exchange my foreign driving licence for a Polish one?

Driving licence exchange in Poland: after 185 days of residence you must exchange a non-EU licence; EU/EEA licences are valid while in date. Where to apply and what to take.

Otwórz →

Najczęstsze pytania

How long do I have to register?

No later than the 30th day from arriving at the new address, for stays of more than 3 months.

Is registration free?

Yes. Only a paper certificate of registration issued at the office may carry a stamp duty; the online one is free.

Does my landlord have to agree?

If you have a rental agreement proving your right to the flat, the owner does not need to confirm in person. Without such a document the owner's confirmation is required.

Does registration give me the right to live in the flat?

No, registration is only an administrative record.

Will I get a PESEL when I register?

Yes, if you do not have one and register for a stay of more than 30 days.

Źródła

Last updated: 2026-11-04.