Polish Authorities Demand Identity Confirmation for Ukrainian Children
As of August 30, 2026, many Ukrainian refugee families in Poland are being reminded that they have until August 31, 2026 to complete a mandatory identity check for their children. The rule does not apply to every Ukrainian in the country. It targets only those who received their PESEL registration with UKR status based on a birth certificate instead of a valid foreign passport or other accepted identification document. In practice, this situation most often affects children.
During the initial months after the outbreak of the full-scale war, Polish authorities allowed PESEL UKR to be issued using only a birth certificate. Now, if a child has since obtained a foreign passport, the parents must visit the local gmina (municipal) office where they reside and update the registration records. The child's identity must be confirmed in person by presenting a valid document, typically the passport.
What Happens If the Deadline Is Missed
Failing to act by the deadline can have serious consequences. The UKR status may be changed to NUE, which would mean losing temporary protection and the social and migration rights attached to it. One immediate result could be the termination of 800+ payments — a Polish program that provides 800 zloty per month for each child, provided eligibility conditions are met. The UKR status is also essential for legal residence and employment in Poland. Without it, families may need to apply for a different legal basis to remain in the country.
The warning was issued by Poland's Social Insurance Institution (ZUS). In addition, the portal InPoland.net explains the process of contacting the gmina office, which is a crucial step for complying with the new requirement.
This measure from Polish authorities highlights how important it is for Ukrainian refugees under temporary protection to stay on top of administrative obligations.
For families, ignoring this obligation could lead to severe setbacks, including the loss of financial aid and problems with their legal stay. Ukrainian refugees should therefore treat this procedure seriously and act promptly to avoid future complications.
As the deadline approaches, it's crucial for families to stay informed about potential impacts on their financial support. Many Ukrainians may face the loss of the 800 Plus payments starting September 1 if they do not complete the necessary identity verification. For a detailed overview of who might be affected and the steps to ensure continued eligibility, read more here.