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Extension of UKR Status and Legalization of Ukrainians in Poland until 04.03.2026

Important news for all Ukrainian citizens residing in Poland: The Sejm has passed a law extending the validity of the UKR status until March 4, 2026. The law affects nearly one million Ukrainians who arrived in Poland after the start of the war. The extension of the status allows for legal residence in Poland, access to social benefits, medical services, and legal employment.

If you are staying in Poland under the temporary UKR status or a residence card, your stay has been automatically extended. However, it is recommended to apply for a residence card now to secure your legal status and, in the future, apply for an EU long-term resident card.

Why the Extension of UKR Status is Important for Ukrainians

Without the extension of the UKR status, most Ukrainians would face a legal vacuum after September 30, 2025. The new law:

• Ensures legal residence in Poland until March 4, 2026.
• Maintains the right to social benefits for employed Ukrainians.
• Strengthens state control over payments, preventing abuse.

The government of Prime Minister Donald Tusk emphasizes that passing the law was crucial to avoid chaos and reduce administrative costs.

Social Benefits for Ukrainians and Control of Legal Employment

The new law ties social benefits to legal employment and children’s school attendance:

• To receive benefits, you must earn at least 50% of the minimum wage (in 2025 – PLN 2,333 gross).
• Benefits are available only to those who actually live and work in Poland.
• Children are required to attend school (except for children under 6 years old and children with disabilities).
• All foreigners must have a PESEL number, and ZUS verifies employment activity monthly.

These measures eliminate social tourism and ensure fairness: assistance is provided only to law-abiding Ukrainians who work and are integrated into Polish society.

What Ukrainians Should Do Now

If your residence card is expiring or has already expired:

• Your stay has been extended until 04.03.2026, allowing you to legally remain in Poland.
• It is recommended to apply for a residence card now to strengthen your status and pave the way for an EU long-term resident card.
• Gather the necessary documents: passport, proof of residence, employment documents, and school certificates for children.
• Obtain a PESEL number to access social benefits.

Our expert, Tatiana Wyborna, advises:

“The sooner you start the process of obtaining documents, the easier and safer your stay will be. Don’t wait for the law to expire – act in advance.”

Economic and Social Impact

The extension of UKR status and new payment rules have significant economic and social consequences:

• Reduction in social benefit expenditures – projected savings of approximately PLN 270 million in 2026.
• Savings in healthcare – limiting free care for non-working Ukrainian citizens, saving up to PLN 75 million.
• Fairness for working Ukrainians – the law protects those who actively contribute to Poland’s economy.

Long-Term Legalization and EU Resident Card

The extension of UKR status is a temporary measure but provides an opportunity for long-term legalization.

• Applying for a residence card strengthens your legal status.
• Meeting the conditions (employment, children’s education) opens the path to obtaining an EU long-term resident card.
• This enables legal work, participation in social programs, and simplifies relocation to other EU countries.

Summary

The extension of UKR status until March 4, 2026, is important news for every Ukrainian in Poland. However, temporary extension does not mean you should delay legalization.

Apply for a residence card now to secure your stay, access social rights, and prepare for future integration into the EU.

• Secure your legal status.
• Access social benefits and medical services.
• Prepare for long-term integration through an EU resident card.

Remember: early document processing is a guarantee of your stability, security, and peace of mind in Poland.