Military may take your car, house or flat in Warsaw

30 July 2026 Poland Radar 0 Comments

Poland plans a military requisition of private property for cars and buildings; Warsaw residents must check mObywatel and WCR notices.

The Polish Ministry of Defence has listed almost 200 cars and dozens of machines for possible use this year. Consequently, if you own a new car, house or flat, the military requisition of private property could affect you.

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What changed and why it matters

The government increased planned pickups sharply. Moreover, planners moved from 50 items last year to 192 cars in 2026. In addition, ministries included trailers and construction machines. Therefore officials say they need real access to civilian resources to keep mobilisation readiness. However, the list does not mean immediate seizure. It gives the state a legal option in crises and for exercises.

How the military requisition of private property works

The rule comes from the 2022 Defence of the Fatherland Act. Moreover, the law names these measures “material services” and sets compensation rules. The military can ask owners to hand over vehicles or real estate temporarily. In cities like Warsaw, the local Military Recruitment Centre files a request. Consequently, the city president issues an administrative decision. However, you may appeal that decision in peacetime. In addition, authorities expect items in working condition and with valid documents and technical inspection. Therefore if a car joins service, the state pays a daily rate for heavy machines. Moreover, cars get individual compensation if damaged. However, refusing a lawful order can bring penalties. The law treats refusal as an offence. Consequently, the owner risks a fine or up to 30 days in custody.

Practical steps for residents and expats

First, check the mObywatel app for an entry next to your vehicle. Moreover, the app gives the fastest alert. Second, verify which WCR covers you by address. In Warsaw, WCR Warszawa-Śródmieście covers central districts. Therefore residents of Śródmieście, Wola, Żoliborz, Bielany, Bemowo, Ursus and parts of Mokotów use that centre. In addition, other districts use WCR Mokotów or WCR Praga. Third, keep vehicle documents and valid inspection ready. Moreover, keep a copy of any decision or summons. Therefore you preserve the right to compensation and to appeal.

💡 GOOD TO KNOW: As an expat, you must watch administrative notices closely. Moreover, the state will not become owner during a requisition. In addition, you receive remuneration and can claim damages. However, appeals may be limited in an emergency. Keep ID documents like your PESEL (national ID number) and proof of ownership. Also prepare paperwork that foreign residents use with Polish systems, such as ZUS (social security), NFZ (public health) and the record for fines (mandat), to speed up communication.

Finally, remember that authorities usually prefer public buildings, halls or hotels first. Moreover, use of private flats will be rarer. Therefore chances remain low for many residents in peacetime. However, you should not ignore a summons. Consequentially, follow procedures and document everything.

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