International Protection in Poland for Ukrainians

Since the onset of the large-scale conflict in Ukraine, Poland has become a primary destination for Ukrainian citizens seeking safety and protection. In response to the growing number of refugees, Poland has implemented both international protection standards and special legal mechanisms tailored for Ukrainians.

Main Forms of International Protection

For Ukrainians who cannot return to their homeland due to genuine threats to their life, safety, or freedom, two primary forms of international protection are available:

Refugee Status: Granted to those persecuted based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.
Subsidiary Protection: Provided to individuals who do not meet the criteria for refugee status but face serious threats to their life or health due to armed conflict, violence, or humanitarian crises in their home country.

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Application Procedure for Ukrainians

The process for obtaining international protection in Poland for Ukrainians follows general EU standards but has been simplified due to the current situation.

Submitting an Application
Applications can be submitted to the Polish Border Guard (Straż Graniczna) at the border or to the Office for Foreigners (Urząd do spraw cudzoziemców, UDSC) within Poland.
Registration and Interview
After submitting the application, personal data is recorded, and an interview is conducted. Ukrainians must explain the reasons they cannot return to their home country and provide evidence of threats if possible.
Application Review
Authorities evaluate all evidence and circumstances to make a decision.
Outcome
If approved, the applicant is granted international protection. If denied, the decision can be appealed.

Temporary Protection: An Alternative for Ukrainians

In addition to standard mechanisms of international protection, Poland has introduced temporary protection for Ukrainian citizens who arrived in the country after February 24, 2022. This special legal regime offers Ukrainians the ability to:

Legally remain in Poland for 18 months, with the possibility of extension;
Access healthcare and social support services;
Work officially without needing additional permits;
Enroll children in Polish schools and higher education institutions;
Apply for financial assistance if necessary.

Temporary protection provides a simpler alternative to international protection, allowing Ukrainians to quickly legalize their stay and access available support.

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Rights and Obligations of Applicants

Ukrainian citizens applying for international or temporary protection are granted the following rights:

Legal residence in Poland during the review of their status;
Access to free healthcare services;
The ability to enroll children in public educational institutions;
Employment opportunities in compliance with Polish labor laws.

At the same time, applicants are required to:

Comply with Polish laws and regulations;
Attend interviews and provide accurate, truthful information;
Inform immigration authorities of any changes to their residence or personal details.

Support for Ukrainian Citizens

To facilitate the adaptation process for Ukrainians in Poland, government and non-governmental organizations actively collaborate with international structures. Key areas of support include:

Legal Assistance and Consultation: Offered by organizations such as ERA Consulting, which helps applicants understand their rights and responsibilities.
Humanitarian Aid: Non-governmental funds and local initiatives provide housing, food, and employment assistance.
Governmental Support: Assistance with documentation, legalizing status, and accessing social programs.

For Ukrainians forced to leave their country due to the conflict, Poland offers multiple protection mechanisms, including international and temporary protection. While obtaining international protection requires preparation and time, temporary protection ensures swift legalization and access to essential services. Both forms provide opportunities for safety, support, and the foundation to rebuild a future free from threats.

International Protection in Poland for Ukrainians​