People with disabilities in Poland can obtain assessment certificates without appearing before a commission in 2026 and 2027, provided specific medical documentation requirements and new remote procedures are met.
Disability Assessment Without Personal Presence
While the standard procedure for obtaining a disability degree—whether light, moderate, or significant—requires a physical examination, exceptions exist. A certificate may be issued without the applicant’s presence if the presiding medical officer deems the existing medical documentation sufficient and the individual’s long-term illness, confirmed by a medical certificate, prevents them from appearing in person.
In practice, individuals unable to attend must attach a relevant medical certificate to their application. If the commission deems it necessary despite the inability to travel, they retain the option to conduct the medical examination at the applicant’s place of residence.
Procedures at ZUS for 2026 and 2027
The Social Insurance Institution (ZUS) operates under similar regulations, where incapacity-for-work assessments are typically based on documentation and direct examinations. However, if the medical files are exhaustive, a direct examination is not required. If health conditions prevent travel, the exam can occur at the person’s home with their consent.
A significant change arrives on January 1, 2027, with the introduction of “e-visits.” These will allow ZUS to conduct examinations via ICT systems if the technology permits a comprehensive assessment. Furthermore, starting in 2027, appeals will generally be handled by single-person examiners, with commissions reserved for specific cases.
Remote Assessments at KRUS
The Agricultural Social Insurance Fund (KRUS) implemented new regulations on October 10, 2025, which prioritize remote assessments. Under these rules, remote issuance based on medical documentation has become the standard, while in-person appearances are now treated as the exception.
KRUS medical examiners and boards primarily issue rulings based on collected medical records. If this documentation proves insufficient, the physician may still refer the farmer for an in-person examination or arrange a home visit if the individual is unable to travel.
