Polish families raising two children can qualify for the Large Family Card if they previously had three children with one passing away.
Who Can Receive the Large Family Card?
The Large Family Card (KDR) is a nationwide program of discounts and benefits in public institutions and at commercial partners. Polish citizens as well as specified groups of foreigners, EU and EFTA citizens, can use it, provided they have legal residence in Poland. By default, it is granted to families raising 3 children. However, regulations provide certain exceptions.
According to the Act on the Large Family Card, rights are granted to members of so-called large families, i.e., families where parents are raising or have raised at least three children in total – regardless of their current age.
When Can You Use the Large Family Card?
The card can be used as long as the eligibility criteria are met, without a specified expiration date related to the number of children currently being raised.
Changes Since 2019 – Expanded Eligibility
As of January 1, 2019, access to the Large Family Card was expanded. Currently, it can also be used by persons who:
Practical Implications
Many seniors and parents who today raise only one or two children still retain the right to KDR. This special case is the death of a child, which does not deprive of the right to KDR.
If parents have ever had three children, and one died in an accident or as a result of illness, they retain the right to the Large Family Card, even if at that moment they are raising fewer children or no longer have them in their care.
When is the Large Family Card Not Granted?
Not all parents of 3 children will receive KDR. The right to it is not granted in certain circumstances.
How to Apply for the Large Family Card?
There are two paths for submitting an application for KDR. It can be submitted:
In the application, all entitled family members should be indicated. In the case of a deceased child:
The card can be obtained in a plastic and electronic version. The latter is available in the mObywatel application.
Benefits of the Large Family Card
KDR is a nationwide system of discounts and benefits that is constantly expanding. Card holders can count, among other things, on:
