When should I apply?
You should apply to replace your residence card if:
- the data contained in the residence card have changed, i.e., your name, or your address of residence;
- your appearance has changed to such an extent that the photo included in your current residence card no longer allows for your identification;
- you have lost your current residence card;
- your current residence card has been damaged;
- you are a holder of a permanent residence permit or a permit for residence of a long-term EU resident, and your card has expired
An application for replacement of a residence card should be submitted in person within 14 days of the occurrence of the above-mentioned circumstances. An application on behalf of a minor foreigner is submitted by the parents or guardians appointed by the court, or by one of the parents or guardians appointed by the court. When submitting an application for a minor who has reached the age of 6, the personal appearance of the minor is required.
If you are a holder of a permit for residence of a long-term EU resident or a permanent residence permit, the application for the replacement of a residence card should be submitted no later than 30 days before the expiry of the current residence card.
Where to submit an application
The application should be submitted in person to
the Department for Civil Affairs and Foreigners of the Opolskie Voivodeship Office
or to
the Correspondence Registry Office of the Opolskie Voivodeship Office
(located in the main hall of the Office)
open: Monday to Friday during the Office working hours, i.e., from 7:30 a.m. to 3.30 p.m.
To apply, register online – make an appointment
If you submit your application by postal service, the next step is to appear in person/submit your fingerprints. You can also submit other documents during your visit.
What documents do I need to provide with the application?
- one copy of the application, completed in accordance with the instructions (download the application form),
- 2 photographs,
- a photocopy of a valid travel document (the original for inspection) – in a particularly justified case, if you do not have a valid travel document and are unable to obtain one, you may present another document confirming your identity;
• documents confirming the circumstances indicated in the application:
- a valid certified copy of the vital record in the event of a change of data provided on the current residence card, e.g., change of name,
- confirmation of registered residence for permanent or temporary stay,
- report of the residence card loss, issued by the police station (optionally)
A proof of payment for the stamp duty is also required to initiate the proceedings.
All documents must be submitted in original or certified copy form.
Fees for a residence card
Pay the administrative fee.
The fee for issuing a residence card is PLN 100.
The reduced fee is PLN 50.
You are entitled to the reduced fee if you are:
• in the territory of the Republic of Poland on the basis of a temporary residence permit granted in connection with attending secondary school or higher education,
• a minor under 16 years of age,
• in a difficult financial situation.
The fee for replacing a residence card in the event of culpable loss or culpable destruction is PLN 200.00.
The fee for replacing a residence card in the event of another culpable loss or another culpable destruction is PLN 300.00.
Please note! Fees for applications submitted by July 29, 2022:
The fee for issuing a residence card is PLN 50.
The reduced fee is PLN 25.
The fee for replacing a residence card in the event of culpable loss or culpable destruction is PLN 100.00.
The fee for replacing a residence card in the event of another culpable loss or another culpable destruction is PLN 150.00.
How long is the waiting time?
The residence card is issued approximately one month after submitting the proof of payment and the confirmation of registred residence.