Do Erasmus Students Need a PESEL to Rent in Poland in 2025? Find out if you need a PESEL number to rent student housing and learn how to secure an apartment without one. Moving to Poland for your Erasmus exchange is an exciting adventure! You're probably dreaming about exploring historic cities, making new friends, and diving into Polish culture. But before you get to the fun part, there's some practical planning to do, and finding a place to live is at the top of that list.
As you start your housing search, you might come across a term you’re not familiar with: the PESEL number. Many international students wonder if they need this number to secure an apartment. The rental process can sometimes feel complicated, even for locals, so it’s natural to feel a bit overwhelmed.
Don't worry! This guide is here to walk you through everything you need to know about the PESEL number and renting in Poland. We'll explain what it is, whether you need one, and how you can find your perfect student home without any unnecessary stress.
First things first, let’s break down what a PESEL number actually is. The name "PESEL" is an acronym for Powszechny Elektroniczny System Ewidencji Ludności, which translates to the "Universal Electronic System for Registration of the Population."
Essentially, it's an 11-digit identification number assigned to every Polish citizen and some foreign residents. It's used for all sorts of official business, like:
Think of it as similar to a Social Security Number in the United States or a National Insurance Number in the UK.
Here’s the short answer: no, you don't legally need a PESEL number to rent an apartment in Poland. There is no law that requires tenants to have one. Erasmus Students Need a PESEL
However, the reality can be a bit more complicated. Many private landlords prefer to rent to tenants who have a PESEL because it makes the process feel more secure and official for them. It helps them verify a tenant's identity and can be useful if any legal issues arise. Because of this preference, you might find that some landlords are hesitant to sign a lease with a student who doesn’t have one.
This is especially common on local marketplace websites or when dealing directly with individual property owners. But don't let this discourage you! As an Erasmus student, you have plenty of other options.
So, if some landlords are asking for a PESEL you don't have, what can you do? The good news is that there are many ways to find great accommodation without one.
The best approach is to use platforms that specialize in housing for international students. These services understand the unique situation of students coming to Poland for a semester or two. They know that you likely won’t have a PESEL and have designed their processes accordingly.
For example, platforms like Pepe Housing are created specifically for international students. We make it easy to book your accommodation from abroad without needing a PESEL number. Instead, you can use other standard identification documents, like your passport, to secure your new home. This removes a major hurdle and allows you to arrange your housing with confidence before you even arrive in Poland.
Even without a PESEL, you'll still need to provide some documents to sign a rental agreement. Landlords need to verify who you are and ensure you're a reliable tenant.
Typical documents you should have ready:
By having these documents organized and ready to go, you'll show landlords that you're a prepared and trustworthy tenant, even without a PESEL.
Sample Rental Contract (Student Housing in Poland) Erasmus Students Need a PESEL
Navigating the rental market in a new country can seem daunting, but it doesn't have to be. While some private landlords in Poland may ask for a PESEL number, it is not a legal requirement for renting an apartment. As an Erasmus student, your best bet is to use services designed to make your life easier.
Platforms like Pepe Housing were created to help international students like you find and book accommodation safely and without hassle. We handle the paperwork and verify listings so you can focus on preparing for an incredible experience in Poland. You can browse verified apartments, chat with landlords, and sign your contract online - all without needing a PESEL.
Ready to find your perfect student room? Start exploring listings on Pepe Housing today and secure your home away from home with just a few clicks. Read from the official state website - what more you should know about Poland!
