What Changes Expect Ukrainians After June 30, 2024 in Poland

With the outbreak of the military conflict in Ukraine, Poland became a refuge for thousands of refugees, providing them with protection and support. In conditions of uncertainty and the search for a new life, legal stay in Poland becomes a key requirement to ensure stability and security. Taking this into account, the Polish government has made proposals for changes to legislation aimed at facilitating the conditions of stay and integration of Ukrainian refugees.

Currently, in response to the current situation, the legal stay status of Ukrainian citizens in Poland with PESEL UKR has been extended until June 30. This is an important step that gives Ukrainians additional time to address their immediate needs, but also emphasizes the need for further action to ensure a longer stay.

According to the new bill, from July 1, 2024, Ukrainian citizens registered from PESEL UKR are given the opportunity to extend their legal stay in Poland until the end of September 2025. Moreover, they will be able to change their temporary protection status to a Construction Card permit for three years, opening up new prospects for themselves and their families.

This move reflects the Polish government's understanding of the complexity of the situation faced by Ukrainian refugees and their need for stability and security. The planned changes are intended not only to ensure the legalization of stay, but also to facilitate the process of integration into Polish society, opening the way to work, education and social services.

To learn more about the proposed bill and learn more about the upcoming changes awaiting Ukrainian refugees in Poland, read on in our article.

What Changes in Legislation Can Ukrainians Expect?

In response to the challenges faced by Ukrainian refugees in Poland, the country's government proposed changes in legislation that would significantly facilitate the process of legalizing their stay. These changes are intended not only to extend the legal stay of Ukrainians in Poland, but also to provide them with the opportunity to change their status to a temporary residence permit.

• One of the key innovations is simplifying the procedure for applying for a temporary beating card. Citizens of Ukraine who have an active UKR status and are included in the PESEL database will potentially be able to submit an electronic application for a beaten card. This is an important step in simplifying bureaucratic procedures, thereby avoiding the need for a personal visit to the relevant institutions.


• The verification of documents and applicants will become more organized. The Homeland Security Agency, Border Patrol and police will review submitted applications to ensure a secure process. Successfully passing the test will allow you to receive a card divided into three years, which will be an important step towards the integration of Ukrainians into Polish society.


• Significant attention is also paid to family reunification, which is critical for refugees. It is expected that citizens of Ukraine will be able to obtain a temporary residence permit to reunite with their families, which will help maintain family ties and support mental health.


• Lowering the age limit for minors, introducing a fingerprint duty and eliminating funding for photo production are part of a broader effort to modernize the registration process. Such measures are intended to streamline procedures and improve safety.


• The innovations also provide for the introduction of CUKR status for persons who received a temporary beating card under a simplified procedure, which will contribute to better organization and control by government authorities.

The obligation to inform employers about receiving a beaten card, immediately applying for a PESEL UKR upon arrival in Poland and updating data in the registry are important steps towards ensuring legal status and facilitating the effective integration of Ukrainians into Polish society.

These changes in legislation will reflect the efforts of the Polish government to help Ukrainian refugees find stability and security in the new conditions, as well as facilitate their integration and adaptation to life in the new country.

Changes in the Legalization Process After June 30

With the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, many Ukrainians are seeking safety and protection abroad, particularly in Poland. In response, the Polish government introduced legislative changes aimed at making it easier to obtain temporary beating cards, verify applicants, and allow for family reunification. These activities are part of a wider range of support that Poland provides to Ukrainian refugees.

Simplifying the procedure for obtaining temporary beating cards is critical for Ukrainians seeking asylum in Poland. Now, to submit an application, you only need to fill out an electronic form and meet certain criteria, which significantly reduces application processing time and eliminates the need for numerous documents. This not only simplifies the process for applicants, but also helps Polish institutions process the growing number of applications efficiently.

Changes to the screening process for applicants are also important to ensure safety and order in the temporary asylum process. Through the introduction of additional checks by the Homeland Security Agency, the Border Guard and the police, it is ensured that those receiving temporary protected status meet all necessary criteria. These measures not only maintain the country's security, but also ensure that assistance reaches those who need it most.

• In accordance with the new amendments to the law, starting from July 1, 2024, the payment of financial assistance as compensation for the admission of Ukrainian refugees (known as 40+) will cease. This decision will apply to hosts hosting up to 10 people.


• The conditions for participation in payment for accommodation and food in hostels for Ukrainian refugees are being revised. Now recipients of 800+ child support will be forced to cover living expenses from these amounts.


• From July 1, 2024, the issuance of a one-time benefit in the amount of PLN 300 to Ukrainian refugees will also be cancelled.

These legislative initiatives reflect Poland's commitment to provide protection and support to Ukrainian refugees while ensuring security and order in its country. They show a deep understanding of the needs of Ukrainians and a willingness to help them in these difficult times.

Other Important Changes

In response to the needs of Ukrainian refugees, the Polish government introduced a number of important changes covering financial support, education and employment. In particular, Ukrainian students now have access to additional free Polish language classes for an extended period from 24 to 36 months. This decision is an important step in supporting children's education, which will contribute to their better adaptation and integration into Polish society.

In addition, for Ukrainian citizens seeking employment as teaching assistants, the requirement for documentary evidence of knowledge of the Polish language has been abolished. This greatly simplifies the process of getting a job in the field of education and helps to use the professional potential of Ukrainians.

An important change is the restoration of the possibility of providing psychological services by Ukrainian psychologists who have the appropriate education received in Ukraine. This support is critical for refugees who have experienced trauma and need qualified help.

Finally, the Polish government extended until September 30, 2025 the validity of Polish visas and cards for Ukrainians, as well as work permits for medical workers. These events provide Ukrainian refugees with stability and open up additional opportunities for professional development in Poland.

Overall, these changes underline Poland's commitment to assist Ukrainian refugees and facilitate their rapid adaptation and integration in the new environment, taking into account their educational and professional needs.

Conclusion

The proposed changes in legislation regarding the conditions of stay and integration of Ukrainian refugees in Poland are an important step to improve their situation. However, this is only the beginning of a broader process that requires further discussion and adaptation. A round table is planned in April, where representatives of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Polish administration and public organizations will gather; this is a key event that will allow collecting proposals and comments aimed at further improving the bill.

Such a discussion opens the door to changes and additions that can significantly improve the quality of life of Ukrainian refugees in Poland, providing them not only with legal support, but also facilitating their social adaptation and integration into Polish society. It is important that all parties express their views and proposals, because the ultimate goal of these efforts is to create conditions under which every refugee feels protected and confident in their future.

The final changes to the law on temporary protection of Ukrainians are expected to come into force on July 1, 2024, which is evidence of Poland's rapid progress and desire to support the Ukrainian population during these difficult times. This not only reflects solidarity with Ukraine, but also demonstrates a commitment to open dialogue and cooperation with all stakeholders to ensure effective solutions to the problems faced by refugees.