WORLD · VERIFIED DEVELOPMENT
Poland to Transition from Special Assistance Regime for Ukrainian Refugees
WHY IT MATTERS
The transition to temporary protection may impact the rights and access to services for Ukrainian refugees in Poland, highlighting the need for continued advocacy and support from organizations like UNHCR.
What happened
The Polish Parliament has adopted the Phasing Out Act, which will terminate the special assistance regime for Ukrainian refugees in Poland. The transition to temporary protection under existing legislation is set to take place in March 2026. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) actively engaged in the legislative process, raising concerns regarding compliance with EU law.
UNHCR issued recommendations addressing access to protection, accommodation support, documentation requirements, and family reunification provisions. Following consultations, the bill was amended to retain family reunification provisions.
Meanwhile, UNHCR and Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs hosted a job fair in Warsaw to support refugee employment and self-reliance. Over one million Ukrainian refugees are currently present in Poland, mostly women and children.
PRIMARY SOURCES
UNHCR Poland Fact Sheet, February 2026
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