Poland Proposes to Limit 800+ Assistance for Ukrainians: What Will Change?

Poland is discussing changes to the Family 800+ program that could limit social assistance for Ukrainians who do not work and do not pay taxes. Find out more about how this will affect Ukrainian families and what arguments are being raised in the debate
There is an active debate in Poland about changes to the Family 800+ social assistance program, which provides 800 zlotys for each child under 18.
Politicians are increasingly talking about limiting this benefit for Ukrainians who do not work or pay taxes in Poland.
Will 800+ payments be limited for Ukrainians who do not work: what is known
The main idea of the proposed changes is to pay social assistance only to those migrants who work and pay taxes in Poland. This is intended to stimulate labor activity among foreigners and reduce state budget expenditures.
Warsaw Mayor Rafał Trzaskowski, who is a presidential candidate from the Civic Coalition, called for limiting the 800+ program for Ukrainians who are not officially employed.
According to him, state aid should be available only to those who work, pay taxes and contribute to the development of the Polish economy. This approach, in his opinion, will help create a fairer system of resource distribution.
Don't want to miss important updates and useful articles? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter!
What do you know about the positions of other political forces?
The Law and Solidarity Party (PiS) supported Trzaskowski's initiative. They even proposed a bill regulating the payment of social assistance only to working migrants. Politicians emphasize that this will help prevent abuse of the social system.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk also expressed support for this proposal. He said that social assistance should be available only to those foreigners who actually live, work and pay taxes in the country. Tusk promised that the government would consider the bill as soon as possible.
The Deputy Prime Minister also positively assessed the proposed changes. He emphasized the importance of migrants participating in financing the Polish economy through taxes. According to Kosiniak-Kamysh, social assistance should serve as support for active members of society.
Speaker of the Sejm and presidential candidate Shimon Golovnya has a different opinion. He said he did not see the need for radical changes to the 800+ program. Golovnya emphasized the difficult situation of many Ukrainian families fleeing the war and stressed the importance of humanitarian support.
Social and economic consequences
Potential changes to the 800+ program could have both positive and negative consequences.
On the one hand, it will reduce the financial burden on the Polish budget and encourage migrants to seek official employment.
On the other hand, the restriction of assistance may worsen the situation of families who are unable to work in Poland due to the circumstances of the war.
The issue also concerns the integration of Ukrainians into Polish society. If the amendments are adopted, there is a risk of increased social tension between the local population and migrants, especially in cases where families will be left without support.
The discussion of changes to the Family 800+ program demonstrates how important the topic of social justice and integration of migrants into Polish society is. Despite the different positions of political forces, the main goal is to create a balanced system that takes into account the interests of both the local population and foreigners.
We remind you! A social survey found that one in three Ukrainians currently living in Poland arrived in the country less than six months ago. Thus, the percentage of those who entered this country as refugees has significantly decreased. We told you what the main purpose of Ukrainians travelling to Poland is now.
Want to know more? Read the latest news and useful materials about Ukraine and the world in the News section.
Our recommendation for a safe and comfortable trip:
Visit Ukraine Insurance - insurance for a safe stay abroad without unnecessary expenses;
Green Card - compulsory car insurance for traveling abroad;
Visit Ukraine Tickets - book tickets for buses, trains, and airplanes to/from Ukraine and between cities around the world;
Private Lawyer service - professional legal support on visa and migration issues;
Visit Ukraine Merch - buy patriotic clothing and accessories with worldwide delivery.
© 2018-2025, Visit Ukraine. Use, copying or reprinting of materials on this site is permitted only with a link (hyperlink for online publications) to Visit Ukraine.
All rights reserved.
Recommended articles
2 min
BusinessUA
Despite the difficult economic conditions caused by the war, foreigners continue to open businesses in Ukraine. However, in 2024, the number of companies founded by non-residents decreased by almost 25% compared to the previous year. Find out more about the countries and industries where foreigners are most likely to start a business in Ukraine
27 Jan. 2025
More details2 min
Where to go?
Fall in love with Lviv: a romantic escape for Valentine's Day with Visit Ukraine
Ancient streets, legends of love, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and a unique atmosphere - this is how the most romantic city in Ukraine welcomes guests. Visit Ukraine invites you to spend Valentine's Day in the city where every stone of the pavement breathes with love stories. Find out more about an unforgettable romantic trip in the heart of Lviv
27 Jan. 2025
More details1 min
For refugees
Subsidy for rental housing for IDPs will start on 29 January: who can benefit?
This week, temporarily displaced persons will be able to apply for a rental subsidy. Find out how the procedure will work, what documents are required and who exactly can count on a subsidy
27 Jan. 2025
More details1 min
Emigration
Canada is not ready to grant permanent residence to all Ukrainians: details
The Canadian government does not plan to issue permanent residence permits to Ukrainians on a massive scale, but it is also not going to return them to their homeland while the war is on. Find out how the government offers refugees to legalise their stay in the country
27 Jan. 2025
More details