Poland's 800+ Child Benefit for Ukrainian Refugees: New Work Requirements from February 2026.

Poland's 800+ Child Benefit for Ukrainian Refugees: New Work Requirements from February 2026

According to TSN.ua: Poland will introduce new eligibility criteria for its 800+ child benefit program for Ukrainian refugees holding UKR status, effective February 1, 2026. This program, a key form of support for families, will require recipients to demonstrate active employment. Approximately 150,000 individuals will need to reapply and verify their work status, with payments set to be suspended from January 31, 2026, highlighting the critical need for timely compliance.

Updated Eligibility Criteria for Ukrainian Beneficiaries

Starting February 1, 2026, around 150,000 Ukrainian refugees who fled to Poland due to the war must submit a new application. The core requirement is proof of labor market activity, which can be demonstrated through various means, including:

• Employment under a labor contract;
• Running a business;
• Receiving a sports or doctoral scholarship;
• Being registered as unemployed and receiving unemployment benefits.

This broad definition aims to accommodate different forms of economic participation. For certain categories of recipients, a further condition will require social security contributions for pension and disability insurance equal to at least 50% of the minimum wage.

The upcoming changes apply specifically to foreigners residing in Poland under temporary protection due to the war in Ukraine. Other foreign nationals not in this category are not subject to these new rules. This policy shift reflects Poland's adjustment of its social support systems in response to the prolonged presence of a large refugee population.

Ukrainian refugees should carefully review the new conditions, prepare the necessary documentation, and submit their applications on time to ensure the continuation of the 800+ benefit. The changes taking effect in February 2026 could significantly impact household finances, making responsible and prompt action essential.