Skip to content
Home » Blog » PESEL

PESEL

PESEL

The PESEL (Polish: Powszechny Elektroniczny System Ewidencji Ludności) is an 11-digit unique identification number assigned to individuals in Poland. It is used for various administrative, legal, and financial purposes, and is essential for anyone living, working, or studying in Poland for an extended period. Below is a detailed overview of the PESEL number, its uses, and how to obtain it:

What is the PESEL Number?

  • The PESEL number is a personal identification number used in Poland.
  • It contains 11 digits, which encode the person’s date of birth, gender, and a unique identifier.
  • It is mandatory for residents of Poland, including Polish citizens, foreigners with temporary or permanent residence, and EU citizens staying in Poland for more than 90 days.

Who Needs a PESEL Number?

  1. Polish Citizens:
    • Assigned at birth.
  2. Foreigners:
    • Foreigners staying in Poland for more than 30 days (e.g., for work, study, or family reunification).
    • EU/EEA citizens staying in Poland for more than 90 days.
    • Non-EU citizens with a temporary or permanent residence permit.

Uses of the PESEL Number

  1. Administrative Purposes:
    • Registering for healthcare (NFZ).
    • Opening a bank account.
    • Signing a rental agreement.
  2. Legal and Financial Transactions:
    • Paying taxes.
    • Applying for social benefits.
    • Signing employment contracts.
  3. Daily Life:
    • Accessing public services.
    • Enrolling in schools or universities.
    • Registering for utilities (e.g., electricity, gas).

How to Obtain a PESEL Number

  1. For Polish Citizens:
    • Automatically assigned at birth.
  2. For Foreigners:
    • Apply at the local Municipal Office (Urząd Miejski/Gminy) or Voivodeship Office (Urząd Wojewódzki).
    • Submit the required documents (see below).

Application Process

  1. Visit the local Municipal Office or Voivodeship Office.
  2. Submit the completed application form and required documents.
  3. The PESEL number is usually assigned immediately or within a few days.

Important Notes

  • The PESEL number is free of charge.
  • It is valid for life and does not change.
  • If you lose your PESEL number, you can request it again from the relevant office.

Useful Resources

The PESEL number is essential for integrating into Polish society and accessing public services. If you plan to stay in Poland for an extended period, make sure to apply for your PESEL number as soon as possible.

FAQ

1. What is a PESEL number?

  • The PESEL (Polish: Powszechny Elektroniczny System Ewidencji Ludności) is an 11-digit unique identification number assigned to individuals in Poland. It is used for administrative, legal, and financial purposes.

2. Who needs a PESEL number?

  • Polish citizens: Assigned at birth.
  • Foreigners: Anyone staying in Poland for more than 30 days, including:
    • EU/EEA citizens staying longer than 90 days.
    • Non-EU citizens with temporary or permanent residence permits.
    • Students, workers, and family members of residents.

3. Why is a PESEL number important?

  • It is required for:
    • Registering for healthcare (NFZ).
    • Opening a bank account.
    • Signing employment or rental contracts.
    • Paying taxes and accessing public services.

4. How do I apply for a PESEL number?

  • Visit the local Municipal Office (Urząd Miejski/Gminy) or Voivodeship Office (Urząd Wojewódzki).

6. Is there a fee for the PESEL number?

  • No, the PESEL number is free of charge.

7. How long does it take to get a PESEL number?

  • It is usually assigned immediately or within a few days of applying.

8. Can I get a PESEL number as a tourist?

  • No, tourists staying in Poland for less than 30 days do not need a PESEL number.

9. Do EU citizens need a PESEL number?

  • Yes, if they plan to stay in Poland for more than 90 days and need to register their stay.

10. Can I use my PESEL number in other countries?

  • No, the PESEL number is only used in Poland for administrative and legal purposes.

11. What if I lose my PESEL number?

  • You can request it again from the local Municipal Office or Voivodeship Office.

12. Does the PESEL number expire?

  • No, the PESEL number is valid for life and does not change.

13. Can I apply for a PESEL number online?

  • No, you must apply in person at the relevant office in Poland.

14. What if I move to a different city in Poland?

  • You do not need to apply for a new PESEL number. However, you must update your address registration at the local office.

15. Where can I find more information?

  • Visit the official website of the Ministry of Digital Affairs (Poland): https://www.gov.pl/web/cyfryzacja.
  • Contact your local Municipal Office or Voivodeship Office.