Ukrainians in Poland After the War: How Many People Do Not Plan to Return Home?

Many Ukrainians do not plan to emigrate once the war ends, but among those already working in Poland, the sentiment is different. Find out how many Ukrainians do not want to return home and what factors influence their decision to stay abroad

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The vast majority of Ukrainians do not plan to emigrate from Ukraine once the war ends. At the same time, among those citizens who are already living and working in Poland, attitudes differ significantly — a significant portion of them are open to the idea of long-term residence abroad. This is reported by InPoland.net.pl, citing the results of the “Polish Labor Market Barometer” study.

The study shows that Ukrainians’ decisions regarding returning home or continuing to live abroad directly depend on age, economic conditions, income levels, and opportunities for legal residency in another country.

Most Ukrainians do not plan to leave after the war

According to the survey results, 88% of respondents stated that they do not consider mass emigration after the war ends and plan to remain in Ukraine. Only 8% consider the possibility of moving abroad for economic reasons.

Analysts note that even among those who are thinking about leaving, the discussion most often revolves not around permanent emigration, but around temporary labor migration or the search for better financial opportunities.

The researchers paid special attention to the generational gap. Young Ukrainians aged 18 to 35 are most likely to mention the possibility of moving abroad — 14% of them do so. In contrast, only 3% of people over 50 consider moving to another country.

The survey also revealed a gender difference in responses. Men are more likely to consider moving abroad — 12% of male respondents stated this. Among women, only 5% consider this option. Experts attribute this primarily to economic factors and the desire for more stable working conditions and higher incomes.

At the same time, sociologists emphasize that even amid economic instability, the majority of Ukrainians still see their future in Ukraine.

Read also: Residence card for Ukrainian refugees: how to obtain a temporary residence permit in Poland in 2026?

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How many Ukrainians in Poland do not want to return?

A different trend is observed among Ukrainians already working in Poland. According to the study:

● 38% of Ukrainians in Poland do not plan to return to Ukraine;

● 17% want to return immediately after the war ends;

● another 16% plan to return within one to two years after the end of hostilities.

Labor market analysts believe that the next two years will be decisive for making long-term decisions regarding residence, work, and the integration of Ukrainians in Poland. For many Ukrainians, not only security issues but also stability, formal employment, and social protection are becoming important.

Why are Ukrainians staying in Poland?

The main reason Ukrainians decide to stay in Poland, according to those surveyed, is economic factors. Most frequently, respondents cited:

● higher wages — 54%;

● stable employment contracts — 33%;

● the possibility of legalizing their stay — 33%.

In addition, Ukrainians highlight social guarantees, career development prospects, and housing support.

The issue of legalizing residency status remains one of the key concerns for Ukrainians in EU countries today. That is why an increasing number of people are seeking advice from immigration lawyers. On the Visit Ukraine platform, Ukrainians can receive professional assistance regarding document processing, legalizing their stay, employment, and residency rules in Poland and other European countries.

Will migration attitudes change after the war?

Experts note that Ukrainians’ final decisions will largely depend on the economic situation in Ukraine after the war ends, wage levels, and the recovery of the labor market and housing infrastructure.

At the same time, it is already clear that a mass exodus of Ukrainians is not expected after the end of hostilities. Most citizens want to remain in Ukraine or return home once the situation stabilizes.

We remind you! Poland will open applications for the CUKR card for Ukrainians as early as spring 2026. Read about who can apply, what deadlines are important, and how not to miss them.

Photo: user788993 / Freepik

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