Poland has changed the rules for Ukrainians: how not to lose temporary protection and PESEL in 2026
20 February 01:54
Polish President Karol Nawrocki has signed a new law changing the rules for Ukrainian refugees staying in the country. The document introduces new requirements for obtaining a PESEL number, which determines access to temporary protection, social benefits, work, and education. This was reported by the Polish publication RMF24, according to "Komersant Ukrainian".
The new rules will be particularly important for Ukrainians arriving in Poland after the start of the full-scale war, as violations of the requirements may result in the loss of protection status.
The legal status of Ukrainians in Poland has been extended until 2027
The signed law stipulates that the legal stay of Ukrainian citizens who have fled the war is officially extended until March 4, 2027.
This is in line with the European decision on temporary protection for Ukrainians.
However, at the same time, Poland is beginning to gradually abandon the special assistance system that has been in place since 2022 on the basis of the so-called “special law for Ukrainians.”
In the future, support will be regulated by the general Law on the Provision of Protection to Foreigners.
The main change: mandatory PESEL registration within 30 days
A key innovation is the requirement to apply for a PESEL identification number.
From now on, Ukrainians must:
- apply for a PESEL within 30 days of entering Poland;
- otherwise, temporary protection status will be automatically lost.
If a person does not apply for a PESEL within the specified period, this will be considered a de facto refusal of temporary protection.
Why PESEL is important for Ukrainians
PESEL is an individual identification number that allows Ukrainians in Poland to:
- work officially;
- receive social benefits;
- use medical services;
- study;
- open bank accounts;
- apply for public services.
Without a PESEL number, access to most of these opportunities will be limited or impossible.
Poland is gradually phasing out special privileges for Ukrainians
The new law means that Poland is moving from temporary crisis mechanisms to a standard system of migration legislation.
Special privileges that were in place after the war began in 2022 are gradually being integrated into the general system of protection for foreigners.
This may affect:
- the employment of Ukrainians;
- access to social assistance;
- administrative procedures.
How the new rules may affect Ukrainians and the Polish labor market
The new requirements may complicate the situation for some Ukrainians who do not manage to obtain a PESEL number in time or are unaware of the new rules.
There are currently about one million Ukrainians working in Poland, and their presence is important for the Polish economy.
Therefore, the changes may affect not only Ukrainian refugees, but also the Polish labor market as a whole.
What Ukrainians need to do to keep their protection
To maintain temporary protection in Poland, Ukrainians must:
- apply for a PESEL number immediately upon arrival;
- not exceed the 30-day period;
- check the validity of their documents;
- keep track of changes in legislation.
Compliance with these rules will allow you to maintain your legal status and access to all social and labor rights in Poland.
