Poland’s Social Insurance Institution (ZUS) will introduce a more secure pensioner ID card design starting July 2026, impacting current and future retirees.
Why is ZUS Introducing a New ID Card?
Existing pensioner ID cards do not meet stringent security requirements for public documents, categorized alongside driver’s licenses and vehicle registrations. The new card will feature lamination and modern security features to prevent forgery.
What Will the New ID Card Look Like?
The new ID card will be made of PVC and single-sided laminated, incorporating modern anti-forgery protections. The abbreviation “LER” will be displayed in Braille in the upper right corner of the reverse side, meeting standards set by the Minister of Interior and Administration.
Who Needs to Exchange Their ID Card in 2026?
ZUS will continue to use existing ID card stock until July 12, 2026, issuing cards in the current format. Individuals who acquire pension entitlements for the first time after July 12, 2026, or who lose their current card, will need to obtain a new one.
Cost of New ID Cards
The Social Insurance Institution estimates spending nearly 4.6 million PLN over the next ten years on producing the new ID cards. Costs will increase by over 330,000 PLN in the first year of implementation due to the added security features and lamination.
Popularity of Pensioner ID Cards
In 2024, ZUS issued over 356,000 plastic pensioner ID cards, with an average of over 31,000 new documents issued monthly in 2025, highlighting the widespread use of these cards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Existing pensioner ID cards will remain valid until their stated expiration date. No application is required for a new card unless pension entitlements are acquired for the first time after July 12, 2026, or the current card is lost.
The new ID card provides the same benefits as the current one, including discounts on transportation, sanatorium benefits, exemption from the radio and television license fee (where applicable), and confirmation of healthcare rights.
Legal Basis
The regulation will come into effect 14 days after its official publication. The draft regulation concerns amendments to the regulation on pensioner ID cards (No. 93 on the list) and is currently undergoing public consultation.