How a Guarantee Differs from a Residence Registration Certificate in Poland

How a guarantee differs from a standard residence registration certificate

When signing a Najem Okazjonalny lease in Poland, the tenant must provide a special guarantee (oświadczenie właściciela lokalu). Many confuse it with the regular residence registration certificate (zameldowanie), assuming they are the same. In fact, they serve different purposes and have different legal effects.

What a guarantee is

A guarantee is a written statement by the owner of a flat or house confirming that the tenant can temporarily move to that address if the lease is terminated. A guarantee:

• is prepared in writing and is often notarized;
• includes details of the guarantor, tenant, and the property address;
• is a mandatory attachment to a Najem Okazjonalny lease;
• gives the landlord a faster, clearer path to eviction if needed.

What a residence registration certificate is

A residence registration certificate (zaświadczenie o zameldowaniu) is an administrative document confirming that a person is registered at a given address. It:

• is issued by the municipal office (urząd gminy/miasta);
• confirms residence but does not grant any right to dispose of the property;
• is not a guarantee document for Najem Okazjonalny;
• may be used for other purposes (tax, social services, schooling).

Main differences: guarantee vs registration certificate

Why a registration certificate does not replace a guarantee

Even if the tenant is registered at an address, this does not provide the landlord with legal safeguards. The certificate merely confirms registration; it does not express the owner’s consent to accept the tenant in case of eviction. Only a guarantee makes a Najem Okazjonalny legally effective and protects the landlord’s interests.

When a registration certificate is needed

A certificate can be useful to the tenant for:

• handling formalities in Poland (residence card, PESEL, tax matters);
• access to healthcare, social services, or kindergarten;
• address confirmation for a bank or employer.

Conclusion

A guarantee and a residence registration certificate are different documents that do not replace each other. A guarantee is required for a Najem Okazjonalny lease, while the registration certificate is used for administrative and everyday purposes. Secure both in advance to avoid issues with renting and legalizing your stay in Poland.