Poland's Temporary Protection for Ukrainians to Conclude
Poland has announced that the special temporary protection regime for Ukrainian citizens will end on March 4, 2026. This policy was enacted by a special law at the start of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. After this date, Ukrainians will be subject to standard immigration procedures for legalizing their stay. Notably, the PESEL UKR status will no longer serve as the sole basis for remaining in the country.
Holders of the PESEL UKR status will be eligible to apply for a three-year temporary residence permit (karta pobytu). Under the new rules, Ukrainians arriving in Poland after the change will still be able to seek protection, but they must apply for the PESEL UKR status within 14 days of entry.
Changes to Social Benefits and Healthcare Access
The shift will also impact social benefits, healthcare, and housing provisions. The '800 Plus' child benefit will now be available only to parents who are formally employed in Poland. Regarding healthcare, free access to doctors will be limited to insured individuals—those who are working and paying contributions to the Polish Social Insurance Institution (ZUS). However, pregnant women, women after childbirth, and children under 18 will retain access to free emergency care even without insurance.
Furthermore, free housing for able-bodied individuals will be discontinued. It will now be provided only in emergencies to vulnerable groups, such as single pensioners and people with significant disabilities.
As Karol Nawrocki stated, Ukrainians should have the same rights as other foreigners in Poland.
These changes are expected to significantly affect the lives of Ukrainian refugees in Poland in the coming years. Poland's decision reflects an evolution in its migration policy in response to the prolonged conflict in Ukraine. The transition to standard legalization procedures will present new challenges for Ukrainians in obtaining residency status and accessing social benefits.
Under the new regulations, Ukrainians planning to stay in Poland will need to integrate more actively into the country's labor market and social system. This move aligns Poland's approach with broader EU discussions on managing long-term displacement from Ukraine.