Do I need a PESEL number to work in Poland?
If you're planning to live and work in Poland as a foreigner, you've likely come across the term PESEL number. It's a common requirement for many official activities, but is it necessary for employment? This blog post breaks down everything you need to know about the PESEL number, when it’s required, how to get one, and what alternatives exist if you don’t have it.
What Is a PESEL Number?
PESEL (Powszechny Elektroniczny System Ewidencji Ludności) is Poland’s national identification number system. It is an 11-digit number assigned to individuals for official identification purposes. The PESEL number is used for:
- Tax and social security reporting
- Access to healthcare
- Bank account registration
- Government services
- Employment paperwork
Essentially, the PESEL number functions similarly to a Social Security Number in the United States or a National Insurance Number in the UK.
Is a PESEL Number Required to Work in Poland?
The short answer: Not always, but it's highly recommended.
To legally work in Poland, you need to meet several conditions:
- A valid work permit or appropriate visa (unless exempted)
- A legal employment contract
- Registration with the tax office and social insurance system
For these processes, you will typically need either a PESEL number or a NIP number (Tax Identification Number).
While the PESEL is not strictly required by law for employment, many employers prefer or require it for simplicity in processing payroll, taxes, and insurance. It is especially important if:
- You’re working on a local Polish employment contract
- You need to access the public healthcare system (NFZ)
- You plan to stay long-term
If you do not have a PESEL number, your employer will usually ask you to obtain a NIP number from the tax office instead.
PESEL vs. NIP: What’s the Difference?
|
PESEL |
NIP |
|
Universal ID for residents |
Tax Identification Number |
|
Used for healthcare, taxes, and public services |
Used mainly for tax purposes |
|
Automatically assigned to residents with temporary/permanent stay |
Must be applied for if you don’t have a PESEL |
|
Easier for long-term stay |
Used if PESEL is not available |
If you’re a foreigner without a PESEL, you’ll likely need to register for a NIP at the Urząd Skarbowy (Tax Office) to fulfill your tax obligations.
Who Automatically Gets a PESEL Number?
You will be automatically assigned a PESEL number if:
- You register your temporary or permanent residence in Poland with the local city office (Urząd Miasta or Urząd Gminy)
- You are staying in Poland for more than 30 days and submit a zameldowanie (residency registration)
If you haven’t registered your address, you can still apply for a PESEL manually, especially if it’s required for your job, healthcare, or other official matters.
How to Apply for a PESEL Number
If you're not assigned one automatically, here’s how to get a PESEL:
Step-by-Step Process:
- Visit your local municipal office (Urząd Miasta/Gminy)
- Bring the following:
- Valid passport or EU national ID
- Visa or residence permit
- Employment contract (optional but helpful)
- Application form (can be filled in at the office)
- If you don’t have residency registration, apply with a justified legal reason (such as employment or access to healthcare)
The process is free of charge, and the PESEL is usually issued within a few days.
Benefits of Having a PESEL
Even if not strictly required, having a PESEL offers several advantages:
- Faster onboarding with employers
- Easier access to public healthcare (NFZ)
- Simplified tax reporting (especially for e-PIT online tax returns)
- Necessary for many government services and permits
What If I Only Have a NIP?
You can still work legally with only a NIP number, but you may face more paperwork:
- Employers may ask for additional documentation
- Access to some services (like public healthcare or child benefits) may be limited
- You’ll need to use your NIP when filing taxes and registering with ZUS (social insurance)
If you plan to stay in Poland longer than a few months, it's worth applying for a PESEL.
Conclusion
While having a PESEL number is not always a legal requirement for foreign workers in Poland, it is highly practical and often expected by employers, tax offices, and public institutions. If you plan to stay in Poland for an extended period, apply for a PESEL early—it will simplify many aspects of your life and work.
If you're unsure whether you need a PESEL or NIP for your specific situation, it’s a good idea to check with your employer, local tax office, or a legal advisor.
