EU citizens’ residence permits are expiring – it’s time to renew them

As of August 3, 2026, documents issued under the templates in force before August 2, 2021, for European Union citizens and their family members have expired; however, it is still possible and advisable to submit an application for new documents without having to re-apply through the entire procedure.

Which residence permits for EU citizens need to be replaced?

Due to the fact that as of August 3, 2026, documents issued under the templates in force until August 1, 2021, for European Union citizens and their family members have expired, holders of any of the following documents:

• certificate of registration of residence of an EU citizen (paper format),
• document confirming the right of permanent residence,
• residence card of a family member of an EU citizen,
• permanent residence card of a family member of an EU citizen,

should submit an application for the issuance of a new document to the Voivode competent for their place of residence.

The expiration of a document does not mean the loss of the right of residence

The expiration of the document itself does not mean the loss of the right of residence or the right of permanent residence in Poland. These documents serve only a confirmatory purpose:

• An EU citizen retains the right of residence as long as they meet the conditions specified in the regulations.
• A family member of an EU citizen continues to enjoy the derivative right of residence.
• The acquired right of permanent residence does not expire upon the expiration of the document.

Submitting an application for a new certificate is also possible after the deadline of August 3, 2026. There is no need to go through the procedure from scratch, which means there is no requirement to re-register the EU citizen’s residence or re-issue a document confirming the right of permanent residence. In the case of family members, there is no need to re-apply for a residence card or permanent residence card.

Do you need help replacing your residence permit?

Our immigration law team will help you determine which document needs to be replaced and prepare an application for the appropriate provincial governor. Contact us for assistance in completing the required paperwork.