Poland has enacted an amendment to the law governing support for Ukrainian citizens affected by the ongoing conflict, expanding several protections and support mechanisms. The core change extends the validity of temporary protection for Ukrainian refugees through September 30, 2025, a shift from the previously planned expiry of June 30, 2024. This extension broadens access to essential services and welfare programs, including health care, family and social benefits, and housing options within collective facilities.
The amendment links education-related cash allowances to compliance with Polish education requirements. This includes preschool preparation, school attendance, or enrollment in a nursery or school within the Polish education system, a policy aimed at ensuring continued integration for Ukrainian children and youth.
Additionally, the law introduces up to 36 months of free Polish language instruction for students who began their studies in the 2022/2023 and 2023/2024 terms. This initiative is designed to support learners in gaining language proficiency that facilitates better access to educational opportunities and social participation.
On identity verification for a PESEL number, the amended law requires applicants to present a valid travel document. The window for applying for PESEL with UKR status changes from a fixed 30-day period after arrival to the moment of immediate arrival, simplifying the process for new arrivals and reducing administrative delays.
From July 1, the funding model for housing and meal support for Ukrainian refugees in particularly difficult situations shifts to a contract-based approach with the local voivode or a local government authority acting on the ground. This change is intended to streamline subsidy distribution and ensure accountability in program delivery across municipalities, including those housing refugees in collective centers.
The reform also adjusts the costs-sharing rules for accommodation and meals in collective centers. The aim is to increase efficiency in subsidy collection and ensure that assistance reaches those in need more promptly and transparently.
There are also significant adjustments to benefits tied to accommodation and food compensation for private property owners hosting refugees. Beginning July 1, the policy will expire for these private arrangements, and a pair of new supports will be introduced, including a one-off cash benefit and related photography-related funding that previously helped cover some costs.
Plans include specific grounds for revoking temporary residence for Ukrainian nationals. The revocation could occur if national defense or security interests require it, or if a person is listed as undesirable by foreign residence policies. A residency pause of six months outside Poland would also trigger potential cancellation.
The law introduces a new intercultural assistant role within schools. These assistants will help non-Polish students who lack sufficient Polish language skills access education more effectively, acting as a bridge between families and the school system and supporting smoother classroom integration.
The amendment was prepared through collaboration among key ministries, including the Interior and Administration, National Education, Family, Labor and Social Policy, and Health, with input from the Prime Minister’s Chancellery. This coordinated approach reflects a comprehensive effort to support Ukrainian refugees while aligning with public policy goals in Poland.
Overall, the changes emphasize orderly administration, targeted support for vulnerable families, and stronger integration pathways for Ukrainian citizens residing in Poland during the ongoing conflict. The measures underscore the importance of clear procedures, predictable support, and effective coordination across regional authorities to meet the needs of refugees and the communities hosting them.
Position of intercultural assistant
The law also creates the position of an intercultural assistant who will work in schools to assist non-Polish students or those with limited Polish proficiency to participate fully in education. This role is designed to help children and families navigate the Polish education system and access necessary resources without barriers.
The amendment was prepared by the Ministry of the Interior and Administration in collaboration with the Ministry of National Education, the Ministry of Family, Labour and Social Policy, the Ministry of Health, and the Prime Minister’s Chancellery, among others.
mly/PAP
Source: wPolityce