Changes to regulations for Ukrainian citizens effective from March 5, 2026

On March 5, 2026, regulations phasing out the provisions of the Act on Assistance to Ukrainian Citizens in the Event of Armed Conflict came into effect. This means a gradual reduction of existing benefits and a transition from the temporary protection mechanism to standard rules for legalizing residence and work.

The amendment introduces, among others:

• making the use of existing solutions dependent on having a PESEL number with UKR status,

• extension of the legality of stay of Ukrainian citizens until March 4, 2027 , if the validity of their residence permits expired after February 24, 2022.

The catalogue of documents covered by this solution includes, among others:

• national visa,

• temporary residence permit,

• residence card,

• Polish identity document of a foreigner,

• "permit for tolerated stay" document,

• rights resulting from visa-free travel,

• return to standard conditions for starting a business by Ukrainian citizens not benefiting from temporary protection.

Legislators are also seeking to streamline data regarding the legality of residence in state registers. To this end, Ukrainian citizens who have been granted UKR status based on a declaration are required to update their identity documents. The deadline for confirming their identity is August 31, 2026. By that time, they must visit any municipal office and confirm their identity with a valid travel document.

At the same time, the current rules regarding the employment of Ukrainian citizens have been maintained. Legal work can still be entrusted based on a notification of entrustment , both for individuals with UKR status and for Ukrainian citizens who do not benefit from temporary protection.