Polish Parliament Approves Extended Protections and New Measures for Ukrainian Refugees

On May 15, the Sejm, Poland's lower house of parliament, passed amendments to the law concerning Ukrainian refugees, extending their protection until September 30, 2025. Poland has emerged as a significant haven for Ukrainians since Russia's full-scale invasion began, with Eurostat reporting nearly 1 million Ukrainian refugees in the country.

The amendments, proposed by the governing parties, garnered substantial support: 381 lawmakers voted in favor, 19 opposed, and 20 abstained, as reported by the Polish Press Agency (PAP). These changes not only prolong the protection status decided by the European Union Council on March 4, 2023, but also introduce a new status for Ukrainian refugees. They can now apply for a three-year temporary residence permit, noted with "previously had temporary protection," after updating their personal information and filling out a specific provincial form.

Additionally, the revised law modifies state financial assistance programs for Ukrainian refugees. The "800 Plus" program, which provides 800 zlotys ($197) monthly per child, and the "Dobry Start" program, offering a one-time payment of 300 zlotys ($74) for school-enrolled children, will now require mandatory attendance at Polish kindergartens or schools.

To support educational integration, the government will offer Ukrainian students a 36-month period of free additional Polish language classes. Ukrainian eighth-grade students will be exempt from the compulsory Polish language exam for the 2024-2025 school year.

Further changes include limiting financial assistance for food and accommodation, which will now be based on agreements with local provincial or other governmental bodies. The deadline for Ukrainian medical professionals to apply for the right to practice as doctors, dentists, nurses, or midwives has been extended by four months.

The Sejm rejected several proposed amendments from the opposition Confederation and Law and Justice (PiS) parties. The bill is now set to move to the Senate for approval. If passed, it will take effect on July 1.