Poland plans to abolish special status of Ukrainians in 2026: draft law developed
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The Polish government has prepared a draft law on the gradual curtailment of special support measures for Ukrainians introduced in 2022 after the outbreak of a full-scale war in Ukraine. About this reports Interia.pl.

"It stipulates that after March 4, 2026, all Ukrainians in Poland will be treated like other foreigners," Polish Interior Ministry spokeswoman Karolina Galecka told the publication.

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According to her, it is proposed not to extend the temporary protection of Ukrainians in accordance with the current rules and to regulate their status in accordance with general rules, as is done for all foreigners.

At the same time, compliance with the law on the legality of military refugees' stay under temporary protection or other forms of legal residence will be ensured until March 4, 2027, in accordance with the recommendations of the European Commission.

Ukrainians will continue to be able to receive emergency medical care, but if they need other medical services, they will have to work and pay contributions.

The same applies to the 800+ program. Parents will have to work to receive child benefits.

"Most refugees have found jobs, their children attend school and have integrated into the Polish environment. Therefore, maintaining the law containing special provisions may create a risk of unequal treatment of other migrants," the spokeswoman explained the position of the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

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The final content of the draft law is not yet known, as it still needs to be approved by interagency bodies. However, according to Galetska, the proposed changes are in line with the European Commission's recommendations on withdrawing from the temporary protection regime.

  • In September 2025, the President of Poland Karol Navrotsky signed another amendments to the law on assistance to Ukrainians. They extend the legality of stay until March 2026, but tighten the rules for receiving benefits.
  • Now, the right to benefits, including 800 plus and Dobry Start, is tied, among other things, to parental employment and children's education in a Polish school.