Poland has decided to repeal a special law that, starting in 2022, regulated the stay of Ukrainian citizens who received temporary protection after the start of a full-scale war. The corresponding document was signed by Polish President Karol Nawrocki.
This is the Law on Assistance to Citizens of Ukraine, which established special rules for legalizing stay, access to social benefits, healthcare, and employment. Now these provisions will be integrated into the general Law on Protection of Foreigners. Thus, Ukrainians will no longer have a separate legal status, but will move to a universal system of temporary protection that applies to all foreigners.
The Polish government explains the decision by saying that over the four years of war, support mechanisms have become systemic, and an emergency regime is no longer necessary.
Despite the repeal of a separate law, the right of Ukrainians to reside in Poland is preserved. According to the decision of the European Union, the legal status of temporary protection has been extended until March 4, 2027. At the same time, certain procedural aspects are changing.
In particular, PESEL UKR registration will become mandatory within 30 days of entering the country. Failure to comply with this deadline may result in the person losing temporary protection status. Social benefits will also be more closely linked to the level of integration - official employment, payment of taxes and education of children in Polish schools.
Medical assistance for unemployed persons will be provided according to the rules applicable to other foreigners. Assistance with accommodation and food will remain available mainly for the most vulnerable categories.
At the same time, key rights remain unchanged. Ukrainians will continue to be able to officially work, receive education, use medical services, and reside in Poland under the temporary protection mechanism.
In fact, it is not about ending support, but about changing the legal model of its regulation. Starting from March 2026, Ukrainian citizens in Poland will completely switch to the standard EU temporary protection system without a separate special status.
