Poland has extended protection for Ukrainians until 2026: new rules for work and medicine.

According to inkorr.com: Poland has extended the temporary protection for Ukrainian citizens with PESEL UKR status until March 4, 2026. The relevant law has already been published in 'Dziennik Ustaw'.

Under the new rules, Ukrainians can work and receive medical assistance in Poland without additional permits. However, health insurance is required for medical services. Children under 18 years of age with UKR status are entitled to free medical care, regardless of the source of insurance.

Medical Assistance

• Those who have additional sources of insurance, such as being employed or having their own business, can access all medical services.

• Children under 18 years of age with UKR status can also receive full medical care, regardless of insurance.

• Those without other insurance will have limited access to medical services.

Conditions for Obtaining and Losing Status

• The UKR status is unavailable for individuals who are already receiving temporary protection in another EU country or who entered Poland with a border movement permit.

• Status may be revoked if a person has been outside Poland for more than 30 consecutive days, has obtained another residence permit, or has applied for temporary protection in an EU country.

New Requirements and Social Benefits

• Now, to obtain PESEL UKR, the presence of a child of any age is required. Previously, this applied only to children who were 6 years old.

• After crossing the border, Ukrainians must apply to the local administration as soon as possible.

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From February 1, 2026, to receive the 800+ assistance, it is important that both parents are economically active and their children attend Polish schools. Additional details regarding the benefits criteria will be published later.

This news reflects significant changes in the status and medical assistance for Ukrainians in Poland along with new requirements for social benefits. The changes in legislation underscore the ongoing development of migration and social support issues in the country, which will undoubtedly impact the lives of many Ukrainians in Poland.