Poland's ZUS rolls out new pensioner ID cards

From 13 July 2024 the Social Insurance Institution (ZUS) in Poland began issuing a new design of the pensioner‑renter identification card. The new plastic card is made of durable PCV, features complex micro‑printing, a unique serial number and a dense background pattern to prevent counterfeiting. The electronic version in the mObywatel app was also updated, removing branch‑specific details for a clearer layout.

ZUS clarified that existing cards remain fully valid; seniors do not need to request a replacement, and the new cards will be issued automatically when a person becomes entitled to a pension or allowance. Both the updated physical and digital cards continue to grant access to benefits and discounts for retirees.

Marlena Nowicka, ZUS spokesperson for the Greater Poland region, explained that the reforms aim to enhance personal data security and reduce fraud risks while simplifying the document’s appearance for users.