How to Register Address in Poland (Meldunek)
What is address registration (meldunek)?
Meldunek is the official registration of your place of residence in Poland. It links you to a municipality, makes many procedures easier (PESEL, school enrollment, local clinic), and is required in specific situations. This guide explains eligibility, documents, and the exact steps at the municipal office (Urząd Gminy/Urząd Miasta).
1) Eligibility
You should register your address if you will reside in Poland for a longer period (e.g., work, study, family reunification). Registration applies to both temporary stay and permanent residence. Tourists and short stays typically do not register.
- EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: register within 30 days after moving in.
- Non-EU citizens: register as required by your voivodeship office/municipality (often shortly after arrival or decision).
- Children are registered by parents/guardians.
2) Documents you need
| Document | Who needs it | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Passport / ID card | All applicants | Original; bring residence card if you have one. |
| Proof of legal stay | Non-EU (and some EU cases) | Visa, residence permit, or stamp/decision. |
| Proof of title to the dwelling | Everyone | Lease with address, ownership deed, or landlord’s written consent. |
| Registration form (Meldunek) | Everyone | Available at the office or online PDF (see official links). |
| Child’s birth certificate | Families registering children | Bring translation if not in Polish or English (check local rules). |
3) How to register (step by step)
Step 1 — Prepare your documents
Print and fill the registration form. Confirm the address and dates with your landlord/owner.
- Form: download from official links.
- Have your PESEL ready if you already have one. If not, the office may issue or confirm it during the process.
Step 2 — Go to your municipal office
Visit the Urząd Gminy/Urząd Miasta for your district. Some cities require an appointment.
- Bring originals and a copy of key documents.
- If the landlord must sign in person, coordinate your visit together.
Step 3 — Submit the application
Hand over the form and documents. The clerk will verify your identity and your right to occupy the dwelling.
- Clarify the type of registration: temporary vs. permanent.
- For temporary registration, specify the start and end date.
Step 4 — Receive confirmation
You will get a paper confirmation or an entry in the system. Keep it for banks, schools, or healthcare registration.
Official forms & offices4) After registration & proof
- Healthcare (NFZ): register with a local clinic (POZ) using your address proof.
- Banks & schools: they may require the registration confirmation.
- PESEL: if you didn’t have it, ask if it can be issued/linked during your visit.
Timeline & fees
| Item | Typical | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Processing time | Same day – 7 days | Varies by municipality and completeness. |
| Fee | Usually free | Certified copies or translations may cost extra. |
| Appointment | Sometimes required | Check your city’s online booking system. |
Special cases
- No landlord cooperation: ask for a written statement or bring a lease with clear address; some offices may contact the owner.
- Sublease/room rental: bring the sublease agreement and the master lease/owner’s consent.
- Moving within the same city: you may need to de-register the previous address (the form often covers both).
- Students: dorms can register you—ask the dorm administration.
- Families: both parents may be required for child registration (or a notarized consent).
Common mistakes
- Bringing only a copy of the lease—always take the original for inspection.
- Incorrect dates on temporary registration—match your lease/permit dates.
- No PESEL when needed—ask the office if PESEL can be assigned or confirmed.
- Using nicknames or inconsistent spelling—match exactly your passport/ID.