Publication date: 08.09.2025
Who is a refugee and what is UCR status?
The concept of a refugee is regulated by both international and national law. A refugee is a person who, due to a well-founded fear of persecution on account of his or her race, religion, nationality, political opinions or membership of a particular social group, is unable or unwilling to return to his or her country of origin.
Refugee status in Poland (hereinafter referred to as UCR Poland ) is a form of international protection that provides foreigners with legal residence, legal protection and access to fundamental rights.
Refugee status is not only a document, but also a guarantee of security. A person with this status receives the right to stay for an indefinite period and in practice is treated similarly to a Polish citizen in many areas of public life. It is worth emphasizing that refugee status is not the only form of protection - there are also additional protection and a permit for tolerated stay. However, it is the UCR that offers the widest range of rights.
Where and how to submit an application for refugee status?
The procedure begins with submitting an official application.
This can be done:
- at the border - when crossing the Polish border, by informing the Border Guard officers of your intention to apply for asylum;
- on Polish territory - at the Border Guard offices or directly at the Office for Foreigners (UDSC).
The application must state in detail the reasons for seeking protection. Every foreigner who declares his intention to apply must be given the opportunity to officially start the asylum procedure. In practice, this means registering his data, taking fingerprints and conducting an initial interview.
It is advisable to attach to the application all available refugee documents that confirm the refugee's history of persecution - these can be testimonies, court summonses, birth certificates, identity documents, photographs or even witness statements.
Steps of the procedure - from application to decision
The entire asylum procedure consists of several stages, which can last from several months to over a year. How to obtain refugee status ? Preparation of documents for UKR status :
- Application and registration - The Border Guard forwards the case to the Office for Foreigners, which officially opens the proceedings.
- Initial interview - The officer checks the data, asks about the reasons for seeking protection and assesses the initial circumstances.
- In-depth interview - This is a key stage where the foreigner discusses his or her situation in the country of origin. The consistency and reliability of the testimony are extremely important. Analysis of the evidence - The Office for Foreigners (UDSC) assesses the submitted documents and the international situation in the country.
- Decision - The office may grant refugee status, grant another form of protection (e.g. subsidiary protection) or refuse.
In case of refusal, the applicant has the right to appeal to the Refugee Council and then to the administrative court. At this stage, it is advisable to seek professional legal advice to help prepare an appeal and collect missing evidence.
Rights and obligations after granting status
A positive decision means access to a number of rights:
Refugee documents - residence card and travel document (equivalent to a passport).- Legal residence and work - a refugee can work without additional permits.
- Healthcare and education - full access to the state system. Social benefits - the ability to access assistance programs, such as housing assistance.
- Family reunification - the right to bring immediate relatives.
A refugee's obligations include compliance with the law, informing the authorities about changes in their place of residence, and renewing their documents.
Deadlines and formalities - what do you have to do within 60 days?
After receiving refugee status, a foreigner has a certain amount of time to complete key formalities:
- registering their place of residence at a municipal institution,
- obtaining a residence card,
- registering at an employment center (if employment is planned),
- submitting an application for a refugee travel document.
The law provides for a 60-day deadline for most of these actions from the date of the decision. Missing this deadline can lead to administrative problems and restrictions on rights.
What to avoid - common mistakes in the procedure?
Practice shows that many foreigners repeat the following mistakes:
- submitting applications without prepared refugee documents,
- conflicting statements during interviews,
- failing to meet official deadlines,
- lacking an interpreter or legal advisor,
- failing to file an appeal after a negative decision.
Each of these errors can lead to a delay in the case, and in extreme cases, to its loss. Therefore, it is extremely important to have the support of specialists and seek professional legal advice from the very beginning.
Obtaining refugee status in Poland is a long and complicated process. Expert support can be crucial. Non-governmental organizations, law firms and specialized services such as "Consultant" offer comprehensive assistance:
- preparation and verification of applications;
- representation in institutions and courts;
- permanent
and advice on rights and obligations;
- support for social and professional integration.
This ensures that foreigners are not left to their own devices during the complex asylum procedure. Professional support significantly increases the chances of a positive outcome and a safe life in Poland.
Frequently asked questions about refugee status in Poland
Question
Who is the refugee status program in Poland intended for?
Answer
Refugee status in Poland is intended for persons who cannot return to their country due to persecution, armed conflict or a real threat to their life. This applies, in particular, to persons who are persecuted because of their religion, nationality, political opinions or membership of a particular social group.
Question
Where can I apply for UCR status - upon entry or later?
Answer
Applications for refugee status in Poland can be submitted both when crossing the border (directly to the Border Guard) and later - at the Border Guard offices or at the Office for Foreigners in Warsaw. It is important to clearly state your intention to start the asylum procedure.
Question
How long does the procedure for obtaining a decision last?
Answer
The duration of the procedure depends on the individual situation, the amount of evidence and the complexity of the case. In practice, the asylum procedure lasts from several months to 15-18 months. In the event of an appeal, the procedure may be extended.
Question
What documents and benefits are available after obtaining the status?
Answer
After obtaining refugee status, a foreigner receives refugee documents: a residence card and a refugee travel document. In addition, he has the right to work without a permit, social benefits, access to education, healthcare and the opportunity to participate in integration programs.
Question
What should I do if I missed the deadline for submitting an application for participation in the integration program?
Answer
According to the law, an application for participation in the Individual Integration Program must be submitted within 60 days from the date of receipt of the decision on granting status. If the deadline is missed, the department may refuse to accept the application. In such a situation, it is worth contacting a legal advisor as soon as possible and trying to justify the delay, for example, by referring to special circumstances.
Question
Can a consultant help prepare an appeal or application?
Answer
Yes, the Expert offers comprehensive legal advice and support at every stage of the case. They can help in preparing an application for refugee status, checking documents, as well as in preparing and submitting an appeal in case of a negative decision. Professional legal assistance significantly increases the chances of a successful outcome.
