CUKR (Centralny Urzad Kadrowo-Rekrutacyjny) in the context of Ukrainian citizens refers to the Central Register of Ukrainians in Poland, created under the special law for Ukrainian war refugees. If you are a Ukrainian citizen who arrived after February 24, 2022, CUKR registration is your gateway to legal status, work rights, and social benefits.
What is Temporary Protection?
Temporary protection is a special legal status granted to Ukrainian citizens in Poland under the EU Temporary Protection Directive. It gives you:
- Legal right to stay in Poland
- Right to work without a separate work permit
- Access to social benefits (500+ program, school enrollment)
- Access to healthcare (NFZ)
- Right to open a bank account and sign contracts
Who Qualifies for Temporary Protection?
- Ukrainian citizens who left Ukraine after February 24, 2022
- Stateless persons who resided in Ukraine before February 24, 2022
- Family members of the above (regardless of citizenship)
- Non-Ukrainian citizens who had international protection in Ukraine
How to Register in CUKR — Step by Step
- Go to the nearest municipal office (Urzad Gminy/Dzielnicy) with border crossing documents
- Fill in the application form
- Provide biometrics (photo, fingerprints)
- Receive a temporary certificate (zaswiadczenie) confirming your status
- Apply for PESEL — submit at the same office
- You will receive your PESEL within a few days
What Happens When Temporary Protection Expires?
Temporary protection periods are extended by the EU and Polish government. As of 2026, the protection covers arrivals through the end of 2025 with extensions expected. When it ends, you will need to transition to a regular residence permit (Karta Pobytu).
Transitioning from Temporary Protection to Karta Pobytu
This is where Legal Solution helps the most. We specialize in helping Ukrainian citizens transition from temporary protection to permanent Karta Pobytu — choosing the right basis (work, family, humanitarian), preparing documents, and submitting via MOS.
- Work-based Karta Pobytu: if you have a job in Poland
- Family reunification: if your spouse or parent is an EU citizen
- Humanitarian grounds: in special circumstances
More than 40% of our clients in 2025-2026 were Ukrainian citizens transitioning from temporary protection. We know this process inside out.
Transitioning from temporary protection to a full Karta Pobytu? You are not alone. Legal Solution has helped hundreds of Ukrainian families secure long-term legal status in Poland — we know every step of the way.