Poland to End Special Support for Ukrainians in 2026: Key Changes Explained.

Legal Changes for Ukrainians in Poland

According to TSN.ua: Poland's special law providing assistance to Ukrainian citizens will expire on March 5, 2026. This marks a significant shift in the country's approach, which has hosted millions of refugees since the war began. Ukrainians with an active PESEL UKR number will retain their protected status until March 4, 2027, but the conditions for their residence and access to benefits will become more stringent.

New Conditions for Residence and Support

Under the new rules, newly arrived Ukrainians will only be eligible for free meals and accommodation in collective centers for the first 60 days after arrival. An individual's total stay in such centers is capped at a cumulative 12 months since 2022. A transition period for families will last until June 30, 2026, allowing time to adapt to the new regulations.

Access to healthcare will be restricted to those who are formally employed and making contributions to the Polish Social Insurance Institution (ZUS). Eligibility for the '800+' child benefit will depend on the guardian's professional activity and the child's mandatory attendance at a Polish school. Crucially, temporary protection status will be revoked if the holder leaves Poland for more than 30 days.

To maintain their status, Ukrainians must meet specific criteria, including:

• Entry into Poland after the invasion began;
• Possession of a registered PESEL number;
• Not holding temporary protection in another EU country.

Temporary protection can be revoked in the following circumstances:

• Departure from Polish territory for over 30 days;
• Receiving protection in another EU state;
• Acquiring a different legal residency status;
• Providing false information in an application.

Consequently, starting in 2026, Ukrainians in Poland will face a new regime of restrictions that could substantially impact their daily lives and their ability to integrate into Polish society.

These changes reflect a broader trend across Europe, where nations are adjusting their long-term migration policies in response to sustained challenges.

The heightened requirements for temporary protection are likely to make life more difficult for many Ukrainians in Poland, demanding greater self-reliance and adaptation. The reduction in state support may also hinder social integration by limiting opportunities for rapid entry into the labor market and the education system.