Poland may limit “800+” payments for Ukrainians: details

Poland is discussing cutting the “800+” program for Ukrainian refugees. Find out who may lose their benefits and what restrictions are being proposed

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In Poland, there's a growing debate about the future of the “800+” program, which gives 800 zlotys a month for every kid under 18. Even though it was originally meant for Polish families, after February 24, 2022, it was extended to Ukrainian refugees who got temporary protection status.

In an interview with the Polsat television channel, President Karol Nawrocki said he was ready to discuss changes to the aid mechanism. This includes both the possible complete abolition of payments to foreigners and the introduction of restrictions for those who, in the government's opinion, “do not necessarily need” this support.

Reasons for the review and possible options for change

Nawrocki stressed that any decisions must be made within the framework of a comprehensive and planned demographic policy, rather than under the influence of situational factors. He emphasized that the “800+” program was created to stimulate the birth rate and reduce the financial burden on families with children, but now a thorough assessment of its effectiveness is needed.

Among the options discussed is a proposal by the Polish Peasant Party (PSL) to limit payments to working parents or guardians. Other categories would receive social assistance outside this program. Party leader Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz noted that “working people must be the number one strategy.”

Public opinion: support and criticism

According to a poll, 54.4% of Poles support the idea of providing “800+” assistance only to working people, 26.5% want to keep the program as it is, and 19.2% are undecided.

Supporters of the changes believe that the payments should stimulate activity in the labor market, rather than create conditions for dependency. Critics warn that the cancellation or restriction of assistance could put thousands of Ukrainian families in a difficult position, especially those who have not yet adapted to their new living conditions.

Possible consequences for Ukrainians

So far, there is no official decision on the abolition or restriction of the “800+” program, but Navrotsky's statement indicates that the issue will be one of the key items on the political agenda in the coming months. Experts predict that if changes are made, Ukrainian families could lose a significant portion of their monthly budget, which many spend on rent, food, and their children's education.

If the payments are canceled, families where parents have not yet found permanent work or are in the process of legalizing their status will be particularly vulnerable. In such situations, it is especially important to have qualified legal assistance, which can be easily obtained by contacting the migration lawyers at Visit Ukraine. Our specialists will help you with paperwork, extending your legal stay, and protecting your rights abroad.

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Context in Europe: Poland is not the only country planning to cut payments

Poland is not the only country considering revising social support for Ukrainian refugees. For example, in Germany, there have been repeated calls to reduce Bürgergeld payments for unemployed Ukrainians, arguing that high levels of financial support reduce the motivation to find work, even among highly skilled Ukrainians.

At the same time, one of the latest statements came from representatives of the conservative Christian Social Union (CSU) party: CSU foreign policy expert Stefan Mayer stressed that Ukrainian men of conscription age in Germany must either work or return to Ukraine and join the army.

Reference: What is the 800+ program?

The 800+ initiative is a key element of Polish demographic policy. The program provides monthly payments of 800 zlotys (approximately US$220) for each child under the age of 18. It was originally created to support Polish families, but was later extended to some foreigners, including Ukrainians who arrived after February 24, 2022, and received temporary protection status.

The aim of the program is to stimulate the birth rate, reduce the financial burden on families, and improve the quality of life for families with children.

It should be noted that on June 1, 2025, new rules regarding the “800+” program for Ukrainian refugees came into force in Poland. Now, in order to receive payments, children are required to attend Polish educational institutions.

We remind you! Starting in 2026, Ukrainians in Poland will be able to apply for a new CUKR residence card — a temporary residence permit for 3 years for persons with UKR status. Read our previous article to find out who is eligible for a CUKR card, what documents are required, how to apply online, and what changes are being made to the procedure for legalizing your stay.

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