Support for Ukrainians in Poland is being reduced: what changes

The President of Poland Karol Nawrocki stated that the law he signed on support for Ukrainian refugees will be the last special document of its kind. He emphasized that after the current social benefits program ends, no new benefits will be approved. This is reported by In Poland.

What rules are changing

The new law extends the legal stay of Ukrainians in Poland until March 4, 2026, but introduces stricter criteria for social benefits. 

Nawrocki confirmed: the monthly assistance of «800+» will be received only by those who are employed or have confirmed income. According to him, Ukrainians must adapt to the «normal regime» for foreigners, as he «will no longer sign any other laws» regarding special assistance.

Reactions and positions of different parties

The changes have sparked criticism among the Ukrainian community and human rights advocates. Some analysts believe this is a political signal about the gradual reduction of preferential support. In Poland itself, they emphasize that assistance will be maintained, but within the framework of equal rules for all foreigners and with a greater emphasis on the independence of Ukrainians.

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Key new provisions of the law

• Legalization of stay — until March 4, 2026

• Benefits «800+» — only for those working or having official income

• No new special laws on social support

• Transition of Ukrainians to general rules for foreigners.

Employment expert Vitaliy Belenets notes that the limitation of benefits will inevitably push Ukrainians to more actively enter the labor market. 

According to him, those who get officially employed will not only maintain their right to assistance but will also have stable status in the country. Belenets adds that employers in Poland are currently interested in workers, so for many Ukrainians these changes could become an opportunity to adapt more easily and gain permanent employment.