More and more official matters in Poland can now be handled online, without queuing at offices. The mObywatel app and the ePUAP portal let you confirm your identity, submit applications, sign documents, and much more. Can foreign workers use them? Yes — but there are conditions. Here is everything you need to know.
What is mObywatel?
mObywatel is the official Polish government app available on Android and iOS. It allows users to:
- Hold a digital ID (mDowod — for Polish citizens only)
- Confirm identity in certain situations
- Check insurance data, driving licence status, and penalty points
- Receive official mail (mSkrzynka)
- Submit applications for 800+ child benefit, unemployment benefit, and parking cards
Foreign nationals with a PESEL number can use mObywatel — the digital ID function is not available to non-citizens, but most other services are.
What is Profil Zaufany (ePUAP)?
Profil Zaufany (PZ, Trusted Profile) is a free digital identity confirmation system for Polish government online services. It is required to use e-services on ZUS, Urzad Pracy, e-Urzad Skarbowy and other government websites.
Foreign nationals with a PESEL number can set up Profil Zaufany via:
- Online banking — if your bank (PKO BP, ING, mBank, Santander) supports identity confirmation. This is the fastest method.
- In-person at a municipal office — fill in the application at login.gov.pl, then confirm your identity in person at the office. Free of charge.
How to Set Up Profil Zaufany — Step by Step
- Go to login.gov.pl
- Click "Utwórz Profil Zaufany" (Create Trusted Profile)
- Choose confirmation method (bank or office)
- Enter your details (PESEL, first name, surname, email)
- Confirm your identity using the chosen method
- Done — Profil Zaufany is now active
Note: Foreign nationals without a PESEL cannot set up Profil Zaufany — first obtain a PESEL through your local municipal office (address registration).
What Can You Handle Online with Profil Zaufany?
- ZUS — check contributions, submit applications (800+, unemployment benefit, e-sick leave)
- Urzad Pracy (Job Centre) — register as unemployed, apply for benefits
- Urzad Skarbowy (Tax Office) — annual PIT tax return, certificates
- Urzad Gminy (Municipal Office) — address registration, document applications
- NFZ (Patient Online Account) — medical history, e-prescriptions, e-referrals
Is mObywatel or ePUAP Available in Ukrainian or Russian?
Official government portals operate in Polish only. However:
- The ZUS portal (pue.zus.pl) has partial Ukrainian translation
- Many municipal offices employ advisors who speak Ukrainian or Russian
- NGOs such as Caritas and Fundacja Ocalenie offer free assistance with e-services
Security — What to Watch Out For
- Never share your Profil Zaufany login credentials with anyone
- Official government sites use the gov.pl domain — beware of fake websites
- Only download mObywatel from official stores (Google Play, App Store)
Summary
mObywatel and Profil Zaufany unlock dozens of Polish government e-services — without leaving home. If you have a PESEL, set up your Profil Zaufany through your bank as soon as possible. It saves time and simplifies life in Poland, especially when the language is still a challenge.