WHAT CHANGED
Electronic filing is the rule for three application categories
From 27 April 2026, the following applications must, as a rule, be submitted electronically through the MOS portal.
Temporary residence permit
Applications for a temporary residence permit, subject to the exceptions listed by the Office for Foreigners.
Permanent residence permit
Applications for a permanent residence permit submitted through the MOS portal.
Long-term EU resident permit
Applications for a long-term EU resident permit submitted electronically.
BEFORE YOU START
What to prepare for an MOS application
The exact set depends on the type of case. Official guidance identifies several items needed at the outset.
A new MOS account
Accounts from the previous MOS version were not transferred. A new user account must be created.
Login and electronic signature
Prepare to log in personally through login.gov.pl and use a Trusted Profile, qualified electronic signature or personal signature.
Photo and travel document
Prepare a current digital photo and a scan or photograph of every page of a valid travel document.
Proof of payments
Prepare electronic proof of the applicable stamp duty and residence-card fee.
Attachment from the relevant entity
Some applications require an electronically signed attachment from an employer, university, traineeship or volunteering organiser. Start this step early.
EXCEPTIONS
Not every case has moved to MOS
The Office for Foreigners lists applications that must still be submitted on paper under the existing rules. They include:
- certain applications connected with an intra-corporate transfer (ICT),
- long-term mobility of managers, specialists or trainee employees under ICT,
- certain family applications where the foreigner concerned is outside Poland.
The full catalogue of exceptions is legally detailed. Check the official notice before filing or obtain guidance for the specific case.
Open the official UdSC noticeOFFICIAL SOURCES
Check the latest information directly with the Office for Foreigners
The links below lead to the official English notice and the application portal.
This material is general information and does not constitute legal advice. The correct procedure and required documents depend on the individual circumstances and current law.