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Zameldowanie

Residence Registration / Address Registration (Zameldowanie) in Poland

Residence registration, known as Zameldowanie in Polish, is a legal requirement for anyone living in Poland for more than 30 days. It is a process of officially registering your place of residence with the local authorities. Whether you are a Polish citizen, an EU national, or a non-EU foreigner, Zameldowanie is essential for accessing public services, signing contracts, and fulfilling legal obligations.

What is Residence Registration (Zameldowanie)?

Residence registration is the process of notifying the Polish government of your place of residence. It is mandatory for:

  • Polish citizens.
  • EU/EEA citizens staying in Poland for more than 90 days.
  • Non-EU citizens with a temporary or permanent residence permit.

The registration is done at the local Municipal Office (Urząd Miejski/Gminy) or City Office (Urząd Miasta) and is recorded in the official population register.

Why is Residence Registration Important?

  1. Legal Requirement:
    • It is mandatory by Polish law for anyone staying in Poland for more than 30 days.
  2. Access to Public Services:
    • Required for healthcare registration (NFZ), opening a bank account, and enrolling children in school.
  3. Administrative Purposes:
    • Needed for signing rental agreements, employment contracts, and applying for a PESEL number.
  4. Proof of Address:
    • Serves as official proof of your address in Poland.

Types of Residence Registration

  1. Temporary Registration (Zameldowanie czasowe):
    • For stays longer than 30 days but less than 3 months.
    • Required for EU/EEA citizens staying longer than 90 days.
  2. Permanent Registration (Zameldowanie na pobyt stały):
    • For long-term stays (more than 3 months).
    • Required for non-EU citizens with temporary or permanent residence permits.

How to Register Your Residence (Zameldowanie)

  1. Visit the Local Office:
    • Go to the Municipal Office (Urząd Miejski/Gminy) or City Office (Urząd Miasta) in your area.
  2. Submit Required Documents:
    • Completed application form (available at the office or online).
    • Valid passport or ID (original and copy).
    • Proof of legal stay in Poland (e.g., residence permit, visa).
    • Proof of address (e.g., rental agreement, property deed, or utility bill).
    • Consent from the property owner (if renting).
  3. Receive Confirmation:
    • Once processed, you will receive a confirmation of registration.

Documents Required for Residence Registration

  1. For Polish Citizens:
    • Polish ID card (dowód osobisty) or passport.
    • Proof of address (e.g., rental agreement, property deed).
  2. For EU/EEA Citizens:
    • Valid passport or ID.
    • Proof of address.
    • Proof of legal stay (e.g., employment contract, student enrollment).
  3. For Non-EU Citizens:
    • Valid passport and visa or residence permit.
    • Proof of address.
    • Consent from the property owner (if applicable).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is residence registration mandatory in Poland?

Yes, it is mandatory for anyone staying in Poland for more than 30 days.

2. Where do I register my residence?

At the local Municipal Office (Urząd Miejski/Gminy) or City Office (Urząd Miasta).

3. What is the difference between temporary and permanent registration?

  • Temporary registration is for stays longer than 30 days but less than 3 months.
  • Permanent registration is for long-term stays (more than 3 months).

4. Can I register without a rental agreement?

No, you need proof of address, such as a rental agreement or property deed.

5. Do I need the property owner’s consent?

Yes, if you are renting, the property owner must provide written consent.

6. Is there a fee for residence registration?

No, the process is free of charge.

7. How long does it take to register?

The process is usually completed on the same day.

8. What happens if I don’t register my residence?

You may face fines or difficulties accessing public services.

9. Can I register online?

No, you must visit the local office in person.

10. Do I need to update my registration if I move?

Yes, you must re-register at your new address.