Poland Parliament Approves Immigration Benefits Reform

Key Point 

• Poland has passed legislation tightening foreign nationals’ access to public benefits and extending legal stay for Ukrainian refugees 

Immigration Benefits and Residency 

Poland approved a new law on 12 September 2025 that introduces stricter eligibility criteria for foreign nationals seeking family-related social benefits, such as the 800+ program and Dobry Start. 

Key provisions include: 

• Foreign nationals must demonstrate active employment, health insurance coverage, or school enrollment for children to qualify for benefits. 
• Children under age 6 remain eligible regardless of school status. 
• Applicants must hold a PESEL number and appear in person, especially for child-related claims. 
• Data will be automatically verified across government systems, including PESEL, Border Guard and ZUS. 

Ukrainian Nationals  

Additionally, the law: 

• Extends legal stay for Ukrainian war refugees in Poland until 4 March 2026. 
• Preserves access to employment, education, healthcare and housing for eligible Ukrainian nationals. 

The legislation also responds to a prior presidential veto and aims to restore legal clarity around foreign nationals’ benefit entitlements. 

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