Entry Rules for Ukrainians of Military Age into Poland
Draft-age Ukrainian men and women will still be permitted to cross into Poland, even as the European Union moves to tighten its temporary protection rules. While their border crossings will be recorded by the Polish Border Guard, they will not be barred from entering the country. The EU has extended temporary protection for Ukrainian refugees until March 2028, but a key exception applies to those subject to military service: they cannot apply for temporary protection status for the first time, yet Poland imposes no ban on their entry.
New Regulations for Conscription-Eligible Individuals
Under the updated rules, the changes affect both men and women who are eligible for military service in Ukraine. As noted by Polish Border Guard spokesperson Maciej Duszczyk,
“From a formal standpoint, these are two separate matters. A person subject to mobilization in Ukraine may enter Poland, but they will not be entitled to apply for international protection.”He further clarified that the new measures apply only to individuals who have never previously held temporary protection status.
It is important to note that these changes do not affect Ukrainians who already hold temporary protection within the EU. Renewal of status for those who have lost it will occur automatically. Consequently, draft-age Ukrainians can continue to enter Poland, though their options for obtaining legal protection remain restricted.
These developments reflect the European Union’s ongoing support for Ukraine, as well as Poland’s effort to maintain a degree of mobility for those subject to mobilization. At the same time, the limitations on applying for temporary protection may create new challenges for conscription-eligible individuals seeking safety outside Ukraine. The situation remains fluid, and future EU policy changes could further impact the rights and opportunities of Ukrainian refugees.
As Poland navigates the complexities of refugee entry amidst evolving EU policies, it's worth noting that Estonia has also taken significant steps to support Ukrainians. The country has extended temporary protection for Ukrainian refugees until 2028, highlighting the broader regional commitment to assist those affected by the ongoing conflict. This parallel underscores the varying approaches within the EU regarding the support of displaced individuals.