PESEL UKR no longer guarantees free treatment in Poland: what has changed

From March 5, 2026, the status of PESEL UKR no longer guarantees most adult Ukrainians access to public healthcare in Poland. As stated in the article about health insurance for Ukrainians, the right to NFZ services depends on the availability of insurance or belonging to certain categories defined by law. The changes are reported by inPoland.

Healthcare in Poland in 2026: who has access to NFZ services

According to the National Health Fund of Poland, free access to a specified list of services, including primary healthcare and reimbursed medications, is available to Ukrainians with temporary protection status and PESEL UKR who belong to one of the following categories:

• children and adolescents under 18;

• pregnant women, new mothers, and women in the postpartum period;

• people who have been victims of torture or rape;

• residents of collective accommodation centers who have appropriate confirmation.

These categories do not automatically receive access to all services of the Polish healthcare system. Most other adult Ukrainians need grounds for NFZ insurance. The list of those who may expect assistance is included in the article about free medicine in Poland.

CUKR card and insurance: what to consider before transitioning

The CUKR card grants permission for temporary residence for three years. After receiving it, a person exits the temporary protection regime, and the UKR status in the registry changes to CUKR. The card itself does not provide automatic health insurance: access conditions are defined according to the rules for foreigners with temporary residence permits.

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Before switching to CUKR, it is advisable to clarify:

• whether your employer pays your insurance contributions;

• whether you have another basis for NFZ insurance;

• whether voluntary insurance can be arranged;

• what medical services you have the right to without insurance.

A remote consultation may be a convenient option for certain situations, but it does not replace emergency care or an in-person examination if needed. Before changing status, it is also advisable to understand how UKR and CUKR differ and how the transition will affect access to services.

Therefore, Ukrainians in Poland should check not only the availability of PESEL UKR but also the basis for health insurance and the scope of available services. Before transitioning to CUKR, it is important to find out in advance how your situation regarding access to NFZ will change.