In short
- As of October 2026, re-registering a Ukrainian car is voluntary — the government is preparing a draft (UC95) with a 12-month limit for non-EU plates.
- A car registered abroad needs valid OC from its country of registration recognised in Poland (Green Card) or border insurance.
- A car imported permanently must be registered in Poland within 30 days — then you buy Polish OC.
- An insurance history certificate from Ukraine or elsewhere (with sworn translation) can lower the price — TUZ, among others, accepts it.
- Foreigners buy OC on the same terms as Poles — what matters is where the car is registered, not your nationality.
Car with foreign plates
Entering Poland you need OC valid in the EU: a Green Card from the country of registration, or border insurance bought at the border (minimum 30 days). Without it the police may retain the registration document and UFG may impose a fine.
Registering the car in Poland
If you live in Poland and imported a car, you have 30 days to register it at the vehicle registration office. Registration requires Polish OC — you can buy it on the VIN before getting plates.
Discounts from abroad
- Ask your insurer for a no-claims history certificate for recent years.
- Get a sworn translation into Polish.
- Some insurers accept non-EU history — we'll check which apply to you.
- The certificate also helps with AC.
Ukrainian plates while living in Poland
The rules for cars with Ukrainian plates have changed several times since 2022. Before buying a policy we'll check the current requirements and choose the right solution: Green Card, border insurance or Polish registration.
Draft rules for cars from Ukraine (October 2026)
- Today: no time limit, re-registration is voluntary.
- Draft UC95 by the Ministry of Infrastructure: a car on non-EU plates may be used in Poland for up to 12 months from entry.
- Anyone applying for residence in Poland (temporary, permanent, EU long-term) — 30 days to register the car.
- People already living in Poland — 60 days to re-register after the law takes effect (with a transition period).
- Proposed fines: 500–2,000 zł. It's still a draft, not law — we follow the changes.