The new law, adopted in response to the current situation, cancels the temporary measures previously introduced to support Ukrainians and establishes unified rules for assisting foreigners, as stated in the official announcement from the president. According to the president's press service, the document emphasizes that "support is yes. Privileges at the expense of Poles - no."
The special law that was adopted in 2022 in connection with the outbreak of war provided separate rules for residence, work, social benefits, and access to education for Ukrainian refugees. The new law will gradually abolish these measures, and key elements of support will be included in the general provisions of the law on the protection of foreigners.
Under the new legislation, social benefits will depend on employment and mandatory schooling for children. Ukrainians will be offered a residence permit for a period of three years to legalize their stay in Poland.
The signed law also extends the legal stay in Poland for Ukrainian citizens arriving due to the conflict until March 4, 2027. An important new requirement is to apply for a PESEL identification number within 30 days of entering the country.
