Which Ukrainians will be able to live for free in Poland: new rules from November 1, 2025

Poland is changing the rules for Ukrainians from November 2025. Find out which Ukrainians will be able to live for free in Poland from November 1, 2025, how to extend legal status and receive payments under the “800+” program

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From November 1, 2025, the Polish government is significantly changing the rules for providing free housing for Ukrainian refugees. The new requirements were approved by a Special Act adopted by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Administration of Poland.

After November 1, 2025, only representatives of vulnerable groups will be able to move into collective accommodation centers. All others will have to rent housing on their own.

Read more about who among the Ukrainians will be able to live for free in Poland from November 1, 2025.

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Free housing for Ukrainians in Poland 2025

Poland will accept Ukrainian refugees to collective accommodation centers until October 31, 2025, after which the program will be gradually phased out. However, certain exceptions are provided, and representatives of vulnerable categories of the population will continue to be able to live and eat in state centers:

- Pensioners - women over 60 years old and men over 65, who are already retired;

- Persons with moderate or severe disabilities;

- Large families.

For these categories of persons, a daily cash allowance of PLN 15 is provided to cover accommodation and food expenses. Other refugees must now provide themselves with housing on their own.

The Polish government notes that these changes are a forced step aimed at optimizing the use of budgetary resources and helping those who really need it.

Can Ukrainians obtain temporary protection status in Poland in 2025?

In parallel with the update of housing rules, the Polish government extended the validity of temporary protection for citizens of Ukraine, it will remain in force until March 4, 2026, that is, until the expiration of the relevant decision of the EU Council.

During this period, Ukrainians have the right to:

- Legally reside in Poland;

- Work:

- Study and apply for temporary or permanent residence permits.

At the same time, the authorities plan to individually consider the issue of extending or canceling documents depending on the personal circumstances of the applicants.

Important! The Polish Ministry of Internal Affairs emphasizes that short-term visits of Ukrainians do not fall under the scope of temporary protection. That is, those who come to the country for only a few days and do not intend to stay cannot apply for social assistance or refugee status.

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Changes in the procedure for registering Ukrainians in Poland in 2025

At the end of 2025, the procedure for registering Ukrainian refugees will also change. From now on, the Polish Border Guard is obliged to:

1. Enter data from foreign passports of citizens of Ukraine into the electronic database;

2. Take fingerprints of all persons crossing the border;

3. Ensure the personal presence of children when obtaining a PESEL number, regardless of their age.

A large-scale innovation for foreign travelers is starting in Europe - an automated entry and exit registration system. Poland has already started implementing it at key crossing points with Ukraine. Read here how the new EES system works, who it applies to and what to consider before traveling.

In addition, Ukrainians who are married or have family ties with Polish citizens must officially confirm these relationships in documents. In the absence of confirmation, the right to benefits or extension of legal stay may be canceled.

Not sure how to properly apply for documents for residence or work in Poland? Contact Visit Ukraine migration lawyers - you will receive professional assistance and support at every stage.

Who among Ukrainians can receive social benefits under the “800+” program?

The Polish “800+” program, which provides for a monthly payment of PLN 800 for each minor child, will also now operate for Ukrainians under the updated rules.

According to a special law, only those Ukrainian citizens who work or study in Poland will be entitled to receive benefits. In particular, the following will be able to receive benefits:

- Ukrainians who have graduated from school and entered university or vocational training courses;

- Families in which at least one parent has official employment.

Thus, the Polish government seeks to support the integration of Ukrainians into society and encourage economic independence.

ZUS in Poland has announced a new control system for recipients of the 800+ benefit. Read here who will be affected by the checks and what new rules will apply to foreigners.

At the end of 2025, Poland remains one of the key countries providing asylum to Ukrainians, but the conditions of residence and support are gradually changing. According to the new rules, assistance will be targeted at those who really need it, while motivating others to integrate into society, study, work and build their own lives in a new reality.

Before traveling to Poland, do not forget to take out health insurance - this is an important condition for a safe stay abroad.

You can purchase a policy online in just a few minutes on the Visit Ukraine portal!

Let us remind you! The number of vacancies in Poland is decreasing, although the demand for workers in industry and construction remains high. More and more jobs are being taken by foreigners, in particular Ukrainians, who play a key role in supporting the country's economy. We have already told you in which sectors the greatest shortage of personnel is observed in 2025.

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