Poland Restricts Financial Support for Ukrainian Refugees: New Regulations and Responsibilities
Recently, Poland adopted a new law that significantly alters the conditions and scope of payments for Ukrainian refugees residing in the country.
According to this legislation, Ukrainian citizens seeking asylum in Poland and currently receiving aid under the ‘800+’ program will face new limitations on their financial assistance.
It is now mandated that only Ukrainians who are actively employed and earn at least 50% of the minimum wage — which amounts to no less than 1166 złoty — will be eligible for the 800 złoty per child benefit until they turn 18.
An additional requirement stipulates that their children must be enrolled in Polish educational institutions.
A notable exception is made for persons with disabilities, who retain eligibility regardless of employment status.
The social insurance agency (ZUS) will conduct monthly checks to verify whether aid recipients are working and whether they have not left Poland.
If violations are detected, payments will be suspended.
Furthermore, the Polish Sejm has approved an extension of the legal residence rights for Ukrainian nationals until March 4, 2026, allowing them to stay in the country without interruption.
However, it is important to mention that Polish President Karol Nwrocharsky vetoed a previous draft of this legislation, which aimed to prolong temporary protection for Ukrainian citizens until 2026.
This veto has sparked ongoing debates regarding Poland’s future policy on supporting Ukrainian refugees and defending their rights within the country.