The Council of Ministers has approved draft amendments to the Special Law on Assistance to Ukrainian Citizens in Poland: everything about the extension of protection and changes

The Polish government has approved draft amendments to the Special Act on Assistance to Ukrainian Citizens in Poland, which provides for the extension of temporary protection until March 4, 2026, new accommodation rules, clarification of the conditions for receiving 800+ assistance, and tighter control over residence. Learn about the key changes that may affect the lives of Ukrainians in Poland

Legal assistance on migration issues for Ukrainians in Ukraine and abroad

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On July 15, 2025, the Polish government approved a number of important amendments to the Law on Assistance to Ukrainian Citizens in Connection with the War. This document first appeared in the register of legislative works of the Council of Ministers on June 24, 2025.

“After the meeting, the Council of Ministers approved draft amendments to the law on assistance to Ukrainian citizens in connection with the armed conflict in that country,” portalsamorzadowy.pl quoted the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Administration as saying.

Most importantly, the temporary protection period for Ukrainian refugees has been extended until March 4, 2026. At the same time, the changes concern not only the length of stay, but also living conditions, access to social assistance, legalization rules, and access to education and healthcare.

We explain in detail how this will affect Ukrainian citizens who are currently in Poland or planning to go there.

Changes for Ukrainians in Poland: updated provisions of the Special Act

Temporary protection in Poland extended until 2026

In accordance with the EU Council's Implementing Decision of June 25, 2024, the Polish government has adapted its legislation. Ukrainians who have fled the war will be able to remain in Poland legally until at least March 4, 2026. This applies to everyone who has been granted temporary protection or has applied for it.

In addition, the deadline for voivodeships to consider cases concerning the following will be extended:

● granting temporary residence permits,

● granting permanent residence permits,

● granting residence permits to long-term residents of the European Union,

● changing temporary residence and work permits,

● changing temporary residence permits for the purpose of performing work in a profession requiring high qualifications,

● revoking temporary residence permits for foreigners,

● revoking permanent residence permits for foreigners

● place of residence of a long-term resident of the European Union.

Changes to border crossing rules

The document abolishes special rights for Ukrainian citizens who come to Poland only for a short period on the basis of a permit under the local border traffic regime. Such persons will no longer be able to benefit from the advantages provided for refugees.

In addition, changes are being made to the functioning of the electronic register of foreigners. The Head of the Polish Border Guard will be required to:

● enter data from documents used when crossing the border into the system;

● add fingerprints for unique identification;

● require the personal presence of children of any age when registering for a PESEL number.

These changes are also related to the deployment of the EES (Entry/Exit System) in EU countries.

Verification of family ties and registration of foreigners

In order to prevent abuse, controls will be tightened on the identification of third-country nationals attempting to legalize their status under the guise of family members of Ukrainians. To confirm family ties, it will now be necessary to provide civil status documents or other official documents issued by Ukrainian state authorities.

Children, regardless of age, will have to be present in person when obtaining a PESEL number. It will also be mandatory to add fingerprints to the register.

In addition, the new rules clearly state that providing false personal data or documents may be grounds for revoking a residence permit. This applies to:

● forged documents;

● fictitious marriages;

● deliberate concealment of the truth.

The period during which this may be grounds for revocation has been extended to one year or six months, depending on the circumstances.

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Restrictions on access to assistance and accommodation

By October 31, 2025, the settlement of Ukrainian refugees in collective accommodation centers will be completed. Exceptions are only made for vulnerable groups:

● children receiving 800+ assistance (if 15 PLN/day is paid);

● pensioners and people with disabilities;

● women aged 60 and over and men aged 65 and over who do not receive pension assistance.

These categories will continue to be eligible for assistance in the form of food and accommodation.

Clarification regarding 800+ assistance for Ukrainian children

The changes also apply to 800+ payments. From now on, it will be paid not only to schoolchildren, but also to children who have graduated from school before the age of 18 and are studying at universities or vocational schools. This will provide support for young people who continue their education after school.

Education and overtime for teachers

Support will continue for local authorities responsible for the education, upbringing, and care of Ukrainian children and students. The government has also allowed schools that have opened separate departments for Ukrainian students to assign overtime to teachers with their consent.

Practice of Ukrainian medical professionals in Poland

The government's decision amends:

1. The Law on the Professions of Doctors and Dentists — the simplified procedure allowing Ukrainians who have received medical education outside the EU to work in Poland will continue to apply;

2. The Law on the Professions of Nurses and Midwives — regional chambers will be able to extend conditional rights to practice until the completion of training in accordance with EU standards, but for no longer than three years.

When will the changes for Ukrainians in Poland come into force?

The Council of Ministers has already approved the changes. For the law to come into force, it must be approved by the Sejm and Senate, and then signed by the President of Poland.

How to get advice on staying in Poland?

The new rules may raise many questions for those who are staying or planning to travel to Poland. In particular, regarding the extension of legal status, obtaining a PESEL number, receiving social benefits or residence permits.

In such cases, it is recommended to seek professional advice from an immigration lawyer. You can use the services of specialists on the Visit Ukraine platform, where Ukrainians can receive individual support, explanations of documents, and assistance in obtaining status.

We remind you! New rules for residence cards have already come into force in Poland. The law narrows the list of grounds for obtaining a residence card and restricts the circle of foreigners who can apply for one. Read our previous article to find out who is affected by the changes and who retains the right to legalize their stay.

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