Poland changes rules for refugees from Ukraine from July 1

Poland changes rules for refugees from Ukraine from July 1

From July 1, 2024, the Polish government is changing the rules governing the stay of Ukrainians in the country. A key element of the law is the extension of the legal stay of Ukrainian refugees.

The director of the ZPP representative office in Ukraine, Nazariy Volyanskyi, spoke about the main changes for Ukrainians on Ranok.LIVE .

He, in particular, noted that previously Ukrainians had 30 days when they arrived in Poland to receive a PESEL - an identification number giving the right to reside in Poland, access to medical services, etc. As of July, Ukrainians must immediately contact their local authorities to obtain PESEL.

“Thus, Poland has decided to cut off all those who illegally cross the border of Poland and enter the territory of the Republic. They will now be forced to present a foreign passport. Previously, it was possible to present any document (driver’s license, Ukrainian passport), now it is necessary to present a foreign passport,” explained expert.

There is also a fee for Ukrainians to take photos from local authorities in order to receive PESEL.

Ukrainian refugees will continue to receive assistance in the amount of PLN 800 monthly and a lump sum payment of PLN 300 for children going to Polish schools.

For Polish citizens who shelter Ukrainians, payments of 40 zlotys per day will be cancelled.

“This suggests that Ukrainians will be forced to find housing on their own or move to a hostel,” noted Nazariy Volyansky.

Also, from September 1, all Ukrainian children will be forced to go to Polish schools.

Ukrainians living in Poland for 365 days with a PESEL document will be able to apply for a residence permit (residence card), which gives the right to reside in Poland for another three years with the right to remain in the country.