A new law for Ukrainian refugees was adopted in Poland

The Polish Sejm on Wednesday adopted amendments to the law on assistance to citizens of Ukraine in connection with the war, which provides, among other things, for extending the period of legal stay for Ukrainians, reports RMF24.

381 deputies voted for the amendments to the law, 19 were against and 20 abstained.

381 deputies voted for the amendments to the law, 19 were against and 20 abstained.

Amendment to the law “On assistance to citizens of Ukraine in connection with the armed conflict on the territory of Ukraine” provides, among other things, for extending until September 30, 2025 the period of legal stay for Ukrainians who have received a PESEL UKR number, as well as linking “800 plus” payments from next year. (PLN 800 per month per child) to compulsory schooling for Ukrainian children.

The Decree also expands access to medical, family and social benefits, payments paid by the social insurance institution (ZUS), and the possibility of living in collective accommodation facilities.

The amendment also defines a maximum 36-month period during which students can participate in additional free Polish language courses. The decision will apply to students who began attending classes in 2022/2023 and 2023/2024.

The law also provides for the introduction of new rules for confirming the identity of a Ukrainian citizen who applies for a PESEL number. The only way to verify your identity will be by presenting a valid travel document.

The order also stipulates that from July 1, financing support in the form of accommodation and food for refugees from Ukraine who are in a particularly difficult situation will be possible only on the basis of a signed agreement with the local competent voivode or local government body, which acts on behalf of the voivode. The rules for sharing room and board costs in congregate living centers will also be changed so that the collection of subsidies due will be more efficient than currently.

The law also provides for the termination of benefits associated with reimbursement of room and board costs refugees suffered by owners of private premises. As of July 1, assistance for financing photography and a one-time cash allowance of PLN 300 will also be cancelled.

The draft amendments to the law were developed by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Administration in cooperation, in particular, with the Ministry of National Education, the Ministry of Family, Labor and Social Policy, the Ministry of Health and the Office of the Prime Minister.

The law, with the exception of certain provisions, will come into force on July 1. Now it will be submitted to the Senate for consideration.

Prepared by: Nina Petrovich