Poland ends welfare benefits for Ukrainian refugees, citing new status

Polish President Karol Nawrocki has announced that current social benefit extensions for Ukrainian refugees will not be renewed beyond their expiration, signaling a significant policy shift toward the nearly one million Ukrainians residing in Poland.

Final Extension of Refugee Benefits

The Polish head of state confirmed Friday that his September approval of amended aid legislation represented the "last time" he would authorize such provisions for Ukrainian nationals. Nawrocki had previously vetoed an earlier version of the bill in August, demanding restrictions on child benefits and healthcare access before reluctantly signing a revised version the following month. The president emphasized he only approved the measure to avoid becoming what he termed "the president of chaos."

Rationale for Policy Change

Nawrocki articulated a fundamental reassessment of Ukraine's displaced population in Poland, stating that after more than three years of residence, they should be regarded as a "Ukrainian minority" rather than war refugees. He argued that current regulations create insufficient differentiation between Polish citizens and Ukrainian residents regarding social service entitlements. The president maintained that this demographic shift must be reflected in revised state policy moving forward.

Historical Context of Polish Support

Since Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022, Poland has accepted more Ukrainian refugees than any other European nation, granting comprehensive legal status including work permits, healthcare access, and social benefits including monthly allowances of approximately €200. The country's initial open-door policy represented one of Europe's most generous refugee responses, though public support has gradually waned as economic pressures increased and temporary stays extended into long-term residence.

Future Implications for Ukrainian Residents

The policy change signals potential restrictions to healthcare access, child benefits, and other social services that have sustained Ukrainian families since their displacement. With nearly a million Ukrainians currently residing in Poland, the decision could force many to seek alternative immigration status or return to Ukraine despite ongoing conflict. The announcement reflects broader European trends of refugee policy reassessment as temporary displacement situations become prolonged residence.