Legislative Changes for Ukrainian Refugees in Poland
The Polish government has passed a bill to phase out special regulations for Ukrainian refugees, with the new rules taking effect on March 5, 2026. This decision was approved by the Polish Council of Ministers on January 20, 2023. The original special law, which allowed many Ukrainians to find temporary refuge in Poland, was enacted in March 2022 following Russia's full-scale invasion. This shift marks a significant policy change as the initial emergency measures expire.
Impact of the New Regulations
Under the new system, the PESEL UKR identification will transition automatically. However, the deadline for applying for a PESEL UKR remains unchanged at 30 days after entering Poland. Furthermore, the period for confirming one's identity at the local municipality (gmina) will be set until August 31, 2026.
Access to healthcare services will also be affected. Free medical assistance for uninsured individuals will be significantly restricted. Additional Polish language lessons for Ukrainians residing in Poland will remain available until the end of the 2025/2026 school year. Accommodation in collective housing centers will be possible until June 30, 2026.
Poland's support system for refugees currently includes two types of accommodation:
- The short-term crisis system permits stays for up to 60 days, but for no more than a total of 12 months.
- The long-term accommodation system is designed for elderly people, individuals with disabilities, pregnant women, women with a child under 12 months old, and those requiring assistance after hospitalization.
Consequently, starting in 2026, Ukrainian refugees in Poland will encounter new conditions that will substantially alter their stay in the country. These changes will significantly impact both those who have already found shelter in Poland and those planning to enter in the future. Restrictions on healthcare and modifications to the accommodation system may create additional difficulties for vulnerable individuals. With the ongoing war in Ukraine, these new rules underscore the need for refugees to adapt to evolving circumstances and seek alternative paths for integration into Polish society.