Key changes include extending the temporary protection status for Ukrainians and revising educational and financial support policies.
The amendments aim to better integrate Ukrainian children into the Polish educational system and streamline administrative processes for Ukrainians residing in Poland.
Introduced in response to the large influx of displaced persons following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the temporary protection initially granted by an European Council decision on March 4, 2022, will now extend legal residency for Ukrainian citizens with a Polish national identification number (PESEL) until September 30, 2025.
A significant legislative proposal involves the "800 plus" family benefit, which will now be conditional on attendance by school-aged children.
This benefit and the "Good Start" payment, a one-time support of PLN 300 (EUR 70, USD 75) for students at the beginning of the school year, will be suspended if the child fails to meet the educational requirements.
The proposal includes extending opportunities for free Polish-language classes to 36 months for students who began courses in 2022 and 2023.
It estimates around 80,000 additional children and students from Ukraine will enter the Polish education system in the 2024/2025 school year, requiring a budget increase of approximately PLN 425 million for 2024 and PLN 1.1 billion for 2025.
New identity verification rules stipulate that Ukrainian citizens must present a valid travel document to obtain a PESEL number. Critics, including the ombudsman, argue this could be impractical for those with disabilities, the elderly, or others with limited mobility, potentially forcing premature returns to Ukraine among those unable to comply.
The legislation also outlines the phasing out of monetary benefits related to compensating the costs of accommodation and meals for the refugees, borne by private property owners.
The bill amendment was developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Family, Labour and Social Policy, the Ministry of Health, and the Prime Minister's Office.
The proposed changes were discussed in a meeting involving the ministries, local government representatives, the Ukrainian consul in Poland, and various organizations assisting war refugees.
The new law, except for certain provisions, will take effect on July 1, 2024.
(rt/gs)
Source: IAR, PAP