How to apply for a residence card in Poland via MOS — step by step

Applications for a Polish residence card (karta pobytu) are submitted online in the MOS system. Here is the whole process in plain English, from creating an account to giving fingerprints — including the photo requirements.

7 steps to apply in MOS

Create an account in MOS. Go to the official MOS website (mos.cudzoziemcy.gov.pl) and register with your e-mail address. MOS is the online system of the Polish Office for Foreigners (UdSC) for residence applications.
Choose the type of application. Select the permit you are applying for — for example temporary residence for work, studies or family reunification. Citizens of Ukraine with UKR status choose the CUKR card.
Fill in the form. Enter your personal data, address in Poland, passport details and the purpose of your stay. Keep your passport and documents confirming the purpose of stay (e.g. employment contract) at hand.
Upload your photo. MOS requires a recent digital photo: JPG, 684×883 px, plain light background, face looking straight at the camera, taken within the last 6 months. A wrong photo is one of the most common reasons an application is sent back for correction.
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Attach documents and pay the fees. Upload scans of the required documents and confirmations of the fees (the permit fee and the residence card fee). Current amounts are listed on the website of your voivodeship office.
Sign and submit. Sign the application electronically (for example with Profil Zaufany or a qualified e-signature, depending on the options MOS offers you) and submit it to your voivodeship office.
Give your fingerprints. The voivodeship office will invite you to give fingerprints in person. After a positive decision you collect your residence card.

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Photo requirements in MOS

JPG, 684×883 px (35×45 mm proportions)
Plain light background, no shadows
Face straight to the camera, eyes open, mouth closed
No headwear (except religious) and no glasses with glare
Taken within the last 6 months

More details: residence card photo requirements.

Frequently asked questions

What is the MOS system in Poland?

MOS (Moduł Obsługi Spraw) is the official online system of the Polish Office for Foreigners for submitting residence permit applications, including the residence card (karta pobytu) and the CUKR card.

What photo do I need for MOS?

A digital JPG of 684×883 px (35×45 mm proportions), plain light background, neutral expression, face straight to the camera, taken no earlier than 6 months before applying.

Can I make the MOS photo with my phone?

Yes. Take a photo with your smartphone or upload one you have — izi.photo turns it into a file that meets the MOS requirements for 19.99 zł.

Is MOS only for Ukrainians?

No. All foreigners applying for a residence permit in Poland use MOS — Belarusians, Georgians, Indians, Vietnamese, Turks, Filipinos and others.

Official source

izi.photo is not a government service. Always check current rules and fees in the official system: mos.cudzoziemcy.gov.pl.