The EU has allowed Poland and several other countries not to accept migrants: what does this mean?

The EU has taken an unprecedented decision, allowing Poland and several other countries to opt out of the migrant redistribution mechanism with impunity. Find out what this means and who it will affect

Legal counselling on migration issues

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The European Union has approved Poland's temporary exemption from participating in the mandatory migrant redistribution mechanism, a system designed to help countries facing a sudden influx of arrivals from third countries, according to Polish Radio. The decision was taken at a meeting of EU interior ministers in Brussels and immediately caused a great stir.

Who has been granted permission not to accept migrants?

Poland, Austria, Croatia, the Czech Republic and Estonia have been granted the right not to accept migrants and, at the same time, not to pay compensation of €20,000 for each person not resettled. Such an exemption is granted extremely rarely and signifies recognition of the special situation of these countries.

For Poland, the argument was compelling: the state incurs enormous costs to protect the EU's eastern border, primarily to counter hybrid attacks from Belarus. But the key factor was the reception of a large number of Ukrainians forced to flee the war. There are currently around 950,000 refugees from Ukraine living in Poland, making it the second largest host country in Europe. This is an officially recognised migration pressure that affects all of the country's social systems: housing, healthcare, education and the labour market.

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What does this mean?

Polish Interior Minister Marcin Kerwinski called the decision ‘the fulfilment of the government's promises’ and stressed that the country would neither accept migrants under the EU mechanism nor pay compensation. According to him, this approach confirms Poland's special role in supporting Ukraine and recognises the real burden that the country has been bearing for the third year in a row.

In fact, the EU's decision means the following: first, Poland gains more political and financial flexibility — resources can be directed to other needs rather than migrant quotas. Second, it shows that the EU is ready to adapt its migration policy to take into account the real circumstances and security of the bloc.

If you or your family are in a tough spot because of changes to support programs, the immigration lawyers at Visit Ukraine are here to help. Our specialists advise on visa extensions, finding alternative residence programs, obtaining status, interacting with local councils, and protecting your rights. We work quickly, individually, and in accordance with all current requirements of UK law. Contact us — we will help you find a solution even in the most difficult circumstances.

Reminder! Germany is preparing a whole package of winter updates that will directly affect Ukrainians living in the country: from new railway routes and rules for unmanned transport to changes in pension payments, taxes, health insurance and consumer rights. In December 2025, dozens of important regulations will come into force that will affect travel, finances and everyday life. Find out what changes will come into effect and how to prepare for them.

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