Publication date: 23.09.2025
What is UKR status and what rights does it provide?
UKR status in Poland is a special status granted to citizens of Ukraine who arrived after February 24, 2022 in connection with the war.
It is granted in accordance with a special law and is confirmed by a PESEL number with UKR status. It provides legal residence in Poland, the right to work without a permit, access to education, healthcare, social security and integration benefits. It is one of the most important instruments of temporary protection in Poland.
Leaving Poland for more than 30 days – automatic revocation of status
The most common reason for losing status is leaving Poland for more than 30 days. The rules clearly state that if you stay abroad for more than 30 days, a valid residence permit in Poland (UKR) automatically loses its validity, even if you return later. In such a situation, it cannot be saved - you must complete the formalities again upon your return.
Renunciation of UKR status – how and when it can be renounced
A person who wishes to terminate their stay in Poland or has received protection in another EU country may voluntarily renounce the status of a Polish citizen. To do this, they must contact the municipal office that issued the PESEL number for Polish citizens and submit an application for renunciation. After this step, the issuance is deactivated, and another legal basis is required for your stay in Poland (e.g. visa, residence card).
Excluding situations – other statuses or protection applications
Loss of status can also occur if you receive other types of legalization of your stay – for example, temporary residence, permanent residence, EU resident status or international protection. In such a situation, the UKR issued in Poland is valid until a new decision or residence card is issued, after which it loses its validity by law.
Registration errors – instability of status despite return within 30 days.
When can UKR status be lost ? UKR status in Poland is sometimes canceled due to errors in the system or lack of confirmation of border crossing upon return. In such cases, even if a citizen of Ukraine returned earlier than 30 days, the status may be deactivated. It is extremely important to keep evidence of return - border stamps, tickets, confirmation of entry.
UKR status in Poland until when ? The status of a citizen of Ukraine in Poland is valid until the entry into force of the provisions of a special law, currently extended until March 2025. It also automatically expires after leaving Poland for a period of more than 30 days or after obtaining another residence permit.
Why is UKR status revoked in Poland ? Revocation of UKR status in Poland most often after leaving the country for a period of more than 30 days or after obtaining another residence permit, such as a residence card. It can also be deactivated due to system errors, so it is worth saving your confirmation of your return.
How can I restore my status as a citizen of Ukraine after losing it?
Loss of UKR status rules does not necessarily mean that it cannot be restored. After returning to Poland, you must re-register with the commune office and apply for the status of a citizen of Ukraine. You must present a travel document and confirmation of crossing the border after February 24, 2022. In some situations, the office may request additional evidence that the trip was short-term and related, for example, to a family emergency.
Consequences of the cancellation of the status - what rights do you lose?
After the cancellation of your UKR status, you lose: the right to legal residence in Poland under a special law, the right to social benefits (500+, 300+), the right to free medical care, whichfunded by the National Health Fund, the ability to work legally without a permit.
That's why it's so important to respect the terms of stay and document your returns.
The Commissioner for Human Rights has repeatedly drawn attention to the problems with automatic termination of status and the lack of information for citizens of Ukraine. He recommends introducing better communication and the possibility of appeal in exceptional situations, such as sudden illness or family responsibilities.
FAQ.
Question
What causes the automatic cancellation of the UKR status?
Answer
The most common reason is leaving Poland for more than 30 days. After this period, your status is legally invalid and upon your return to Poland you must re-register with your local authority.
Question
Can I voluntarily renounce my UKR status?
Answer
Yes. You can voluntarily renounce your UKR status by submitting an application to the local authority that issued your UKR PESEL number. From now on, staying in Poland requires a different legal basis.
Question
What should I do if I have a residence card or have applied for asylum?
Answer
Obtaining a residence card, resident status or international protection automatically excludes the UKR status. The status expires after the decision or residence card is issued.
Question
I was outside Poland for less than 30 days - can I lose my status?
Answer
Theoretically, no, but system errors can lead to the deactivation of the status. It is worth keeping proof of your return (tickets, stamps, confirmation of border crossing) to confirm your short-term stay.
Question
How can I restore my status as a citizen of Ukraine after losing it?
Answer
After returning to Poland, you need to re-apply to the commune and present a travel document confirming your entry after February 24, 2022. In some cases, the office will request additional clarifications.
Question
What rights do I lose after losing my status as a citizen of Ukraine?
Answer
After losing your status, you lose legal residence under a special law, the right to work without a permit, social benefits and access to the National Health Fund. Returning to Poland requires another reason for residence (e.g. a visa).
