Poland's Temporary Protection Scheme for Ukrainians to Conclude
Poland will terminate its temporary protection regime for Ukrainian citizens after March 4, 2026. The government plans to transition Ukrainians to the standard legalization procedures that apply to other foreign nationals. After this date, the PESEL UKR status will no longer serve as the sole basis for Ukrainians to remain in the country. This shift marks a significant policy change as Poland moves from emergency measures to a more permanent immigration framework.
Tax Declaration Campaign Launching
A campaign for filing tax declarations via the Twój e-PIT service will begin in Poland on February 15, 2026. Ukrainian workers can expect tax refunds within 45 days if they use the electronic form. Furthermore, the system will automatically accept PIT-37 and PIT-38 declarations on April 30 if no amendments are made to them.
Meanwhile, for the transition to a temporary residence permit (karta pobytu) in 2026, Polish legislation establishes a simplified list of required documents. The fee for the permit will include a stamp duty (approximately 445 PLN) and 100 PLN for the production of the plastic card itself. Applications will be possible through a dedicated online portal.
- Current residents with PESEL UKR status will be eligible for a three-year temporary residence permit.
- New entry conditions will require an application for PESEL UKR status within 14 days of crossing the border.
- The '800 Plus' child benefit payments will only be available to officially employed parents.
- Free access to the healthcare system will be maintained only for insured individuals, with exceptions made for children, pregnant women, and women in the postpartum period.
Free accommodation programs will remain exclusively for socially vulnerable categories, such as pensioners and persons with disabilities. The core document package for obtaining a temporary residence permit will include:
- an application form,
- a foreign passport,
- current photographs,
- PESEL UKR status.
Supporting documents will include an employment contract, health insurance, and proof of residence.
These changes will impact the lives of Ukrainians in Poland, making the legalization process more structured in line with the new requirements.
The changes taking effect in 2026 reflect an adaptation of Polish legislation to the new realities associated with the large influx of Ukrainian refugees. The shift to standard legalization procedures may complicate the situation for some Ukrainians accustomed to simplified stay conditions. However, the streamlined paperwork for obtaining a temporary residence permit could help many remain in the country legally and continue working. This also underscores Poland's commitment to supporting Ukrainians who remain in the country during a difficult time. The policy evolution balances integration with the need for orderly long-term residency management.