Poland’s legislative body has approved a revised framework governing assistance to individuals from Ukraine, following a presidential veto of an earlier proposal aimed at extending existing support mechanisms. The updated legislation, passed by the Sejm with a narrow majority of 227 to 194, introduces stringent conditions for access to benefits while emphasizing fiscal responsibility and systemic integrity.
The measure extends the legal residency period for Ukrainian nationals in Poland until March 2026 but imposes stricter criteria for receiving financial support, including a monthly stipend of over 800 zlotys. Recipients must now demonstrate employment or enrollment in educational institutions for their children, with earners required to meet at least half the national minimum wage. Compliance will be monitored through Poland’s social security system (ZUS), and failure to adhere to these requirements could result in benefit suspensions. Additionally, the legislation mandates the use of PESEL identification numbers and integrates government databases to detect fraudulent claims.
President Karol Nawrocki, who initially rejected a prior version of the bill, has consistently argued that Poland’s support should be reserved for those contributing to its economic framework. “Only Ukrainians actively working in Poland deserve this financial assistance,” he reiterated. The reforms also curtail certain healthcare privileges for adult migrants while preserving exemptions for children and individuals with disabilities.
During parliamentary deliberations, several opposition proposals were dismissed, including extensions for naturalization periods, harsher penalties for unauthorized border crossings, and measures against the promotion of Banderism, a contentious nationalist ideology linked to historical conflicts. Deputy Interior Minister Maciej Duszczyk framed the changes as necessary to combat informal labor practices, enhance tax collection, and ensure equitable resource distribution. With over one million Ukrainian residents in Poland, the policy is expected to prioritize enforcement efforts against systemic abuses.