How to Get a PESEL Number to Work or Hire in Poland
Poland has become an increasingly attractive destination for international professionals and companies alike. Whether you are moving to Poland for work or planning to hire locally, one administrative step is unavoidable: obtaining a PESEL number.
Often compared to Spain’s NIE, the PESEL plays a central role in the Polish employment system. While it is not a work permit, it is essential for making an employment relationship legally and practically operational.
In this guide, we explain what the PESEL is, who needs it, how to obtain it, and which institutions can support the process.
What is a PESEL number?
The PESEL (Powszechny Elektroniczny System Ewidencji Ludności) is Poland’s national identification number. It consists of 11 digits and is used across almost all areas of public administration.
In a professional context, the PESEL is required to:
Register an employee with social security (ZUS)
Declare and pay income tax
Open a Polish bank account
Access public healthcare
Sign and execute an employment contract properly
Without a PESEL, an employee may be hired in theory — but cannot be paid, insured, or declared correctly in practice.
Who needs a PESEL in Poland?
EU / EEA / Swiss citizens
Citizens of the EU, EEA or Switzerland do not need a work permit to work in Poland. However, they do need a PESEL if they:
Stay in Poland for more than 3 months
Work under a Polish employment contract
Are registered for tax or social security purposes
In other words: no work permit, but full administrative registration is still required.
Non-EU citizens
For non-EU nationals, the PESEL comes after obtaining the legal right to work and stay (work permit, residence permit, or combined permit). Once employed or resident in Poland, the PESEL becomes mandatory for daily administrative life.
How to obtain a PESEL number
There are two main ways to apply for a PESEL, depending on your situation.
1. Applying through residence registration (most common case)
If you already have an address in Poland, you can obtain a PESEL when declaring your residence.
The application is made at the local Urząd Gminy (municipal office).
You will typically need:
A valid passport or national ID
Proof of address (rental agreement or accommodation confirmation)
A residence registration form (meldunek)
In most municipalities, the PESEL is issued immediately or within a few days.
2. Applying without a registered address
If you do not yet have permanent accommodation, it is still possible to obtain a PESEL by demonstrating a legitimate reason, such as employment.
Accepted justifications usually include:
A signed employment contract
An employer confirmation letter
Proof that the PESEL is required for tax or social security registration
This option is particularly common for:
Newly hired international employees
Candidates relocating progressively
Companies onboarding foreign talent quickly
The employer’s role in the PESEL process
While the PESEL must be requested personally by the individual, employers play a key role in making the process smooth.
Many Polish companies:
Provide official employment letters
Coordinate with payroll or HR providers
Work with relocation partners
Guide new hires through the municipal procedures
For international profiles, employer support often makes the difference between a fast onboarding and weeks of administrative delay.
Institutions and organisations that can help
Several public and support organisations are involved in or can assist with the PESEL process:
Urząd Gminy– Official authority issuing the PESEL
ZUS– Social security registration
Polish Tax Office– Income tax matters
EURES– Cross-border employment support
In addition, many relocation agencies and international HR providers in cities such as Warsaw, Kraków, or Wrocław assist companies and candidates with end-to-end setup.
Key takeaways
The PESEL is not a work permit, but it is essential to work legally in practice
It is required for taxes, payroll, and social security
It is usually obtained quickly at the municipal office
Employers are strongly encouraged to support the process
For international hiring, early preparation is key
FAQ – PESEL Number in Poland
Is the PESEL mandatory to work in Poland? Yes, in practice. Without it, salary payments, tax declarations and social security registration are not possible.
How long does it take to get a PESEL? Most applications are processedthe same dayor within a few days if documents are complete.
Can I get a PESEL without a Polish address? Yes, if you can prove a legitimate reason such as employment.
Can an employer apply for a PESEL on behalf of an employee? No, but employers can provide documents, guidance and relocation support.
Is the PESEL permanent? Yes. Once issued, it remains valid for life.
