Office for Foreigners and voivodeship offices

Choose the right residence authority, submit documents formally and distinguish an appeal from a service complaint.

Identify the procedure

Ordinary residence applications are generally handled by the competent voivode through the voivodeship office. The Head of the Office for Foreigners usually handles their administrative appeals, while international protection has a different first-instance and appeal structure. Border Guard matters are separate. Identify your exact procedure before choosing an address or form; a residence card enquiry is not a protection application.

Prepare and file correctly

Read the current official procedure. Prepare identification, the case number if assigned, the correct form and required attachments. Check the accepted filing channel, signature and personal-appearance requirements. Booking an appointment, calling or preparing a portal draft does not necessarily submit an application. Keep the actual submission receipt and a copy of the documents.

Follow correspondence

Give a working delivery address, report changes and monitor the official delivery channel. Keep the date each letter was delivered and meet its specific requests. If the case is delayed, ask about the appropriate formal remedy, including a reminder where applicable. A general complaint about service does not replace that remedy or automatically speed up the decision.

Appeal through the proper authority

For an ordinary residence decision, an appeal to the Head of the Office is normally lodged through the voivode who issued it. International-protection appeals follow the separate Refugee Board route. Read the decision for the actual deadline, recipient and submission requirements; do not assume every decision has the same rules. Seek legal assistance promptly when unsure.

Editorial summary checked against official sources: 2026-10-26

• Residence appeals through the issuing voivode
• Complaints and requests; limits in pending proceedings