Ukrainians in Poland face fines of up to 50 thousand zloty: new rules for children.

According to ТСН: Ukrainians who are in Poland with children may face significant fines (up to 50,000 zloty) for violating local rules regarding education and care. Compulsory schooling is a requirement for receiving social assistance, and absences and leaving children unattended can lead to serious sanctions.

Leaving a child unattended

Children under 7 years old are unable to assess danger or protect themselves, so Polish legislation prohibits leaving them unattended. If an adult responsible for the care of younger children allows dangerous situations to occur, this may result in a fine.

The amount of the fine ranges from 20 to 5000 zloty depending on the situation. Dangerous conditions that threaten the child, such as being near a cliff or left unattended while in a state of alcohol intoxication, may be considered.

Schooling

Ukrainians under temporary protection must enroll their children in Polish schools in order to receive state social assistance. This requirement will begin to take effect on September 1, 2024.

The Polish Ministry of National Education noted that in case of non-compliance with the requirements for compulsory schooling, administrative sanctions may be imposed:

“In case of non-compliance with the requirements of compulsory schooling, administrative sanctions such as fines or coercion may be applied. The amount of a single fine cannot exceed 10,000 zloty, and the total amount of several fines cannot exceed 50,000 zloty.”

Before imposing a fine, the school may issue a warning, as the administration monitors the fulfillment of obligations regarding children's education in its district.

Another significant fine concerns absences: if a child misses more than 25% of classes in an academic year, the parents may face a fine of up to 10,000 zloty. The new rules regarding mandatory attendance will take effect on January 1, 2025.

Animals and children in cars

The portal “Spilno”, created to support Ukrainian families in Poland, emphasizes that leaving a child or an animal in a locked car is strictly prohibited. A fine of 500 zloty is imposed for this, and in some cases even imprisonment for a period of 3 to 5 years.

Polish legislation allows bystanders to break a car window if a child or animal is left inside. However, the best option is to call the police or municipal security.

Additionally, the President of Poland, Karol Nawrowski, signed a new version of the law on assistance to Ukrainian refugees, stating that this is the last time, and support will not be extended. He emphasized the need to organize the system and establish uniform rules for all national minorities.

Therefore, Ukrainians living in Poland must be cautious about complying with local laws, especially regarding children's education and supervision. Non-compliance with these requirements can lead to serious financial penalties and other sanctions, highlighting the importance of awareness among new residents.