Returning to Ukraine from Poland: how to organize the move correctly?

After February 2022, many Ukrainians were forced to leave their homes. Poland was one of the first countries to accept refugees. But perhaps you feel it is time to return? Do you miss your home, your friends, or do you feel that your country needs you? This article will help you plan your return home. 

Conditions of return from Poland to Ukraine

Let's start with the more "legal" aspect of your trip. First, people who are now on Polish territory and benefit from the so-called Special Law (i.e. Ukrainian citizens and their spouses who crossed the border after February 24, 2022) can return to Ukraine at any time. Poland also has a "reintegration" program, for those foreigners who want to return home but cannot afford it. In case you are experiencing financial difficulties - you can try to take advantage of this program. But do not forget that it can only be used by citizens who:

• do not have legal authorization to stay in Poland;
• applied for refugee status but were rejected or withdrew their application.  

Make a list

Before moving, making a list helps you get organized. Start with important things like documents: passport, visas, tickets. Then list the necessities of life: clothes, medicines, personal items. The list makes sure you don't forget anything important.

Add tasks related to the move: packing, renting transportation, cleaning. This will help you not to forget the stages of the move.

Lastly, check the list before you leave to make sure nothing is missing. It can be your trusted assistant in stressful situations before moving.

Prepare the documents

The exact list of documents may vary, but roughly may look like this:

• Personal documents. Passport, visa (if required), ID card. Make copies and keep them separately for security.
• Financial Documents. Credit cards, cash, bank accounts, insurance. 
• Medical records. Health insurance, prescription drugs, medical records or medical history.
• Real estate documents. Lease/sale agreement, ownership certificate.
• Employment Documents. Employment contracts, letters of recommendation, resumes, educational records.
• Transportation documents. Driver's license, car insurance, vehicle documents.
• Other documents. Travel vouchers, transportation tickets, hotel reservations and other travel-related documents.

Check that all documents are up to date and have expiration dates. It is better to prepare in advance to avoid rushing and problems at the last minute.

Get rid of unnecessary or superfluous items

Getting rid of unnecessary items can simplify life. Start by assessing what you really need and what you use regularly. Divide things into categories: keep, donate, sell or throw away.

A unique way is the "one year rule." If an item hasn't been used in the last year - chances are you won't use it ever again. This will help you make decisions about what to keep.

Concentrate on functionality. If you have similar items, keep the one that better fulfills its function.

Don't dwell on emotions. Often we attach value to things because of the memories associated with them. Think about whether it is really important to you in your daily life.

Sell or donate items that someone else could use. This will give them a new life and help make room in your home.

Resolve any outstanding issues

Did you owe a debt at your local store? Didn't check out a book from the library? Perhaps you still have an unpaid fine on your record? All of these things need to be resolved before you return home. After all, any official record - the chance that you just "turn around" right at the border. In the worst case, you will be fined additionally, or even prosecuted. 

That's why it's so important to resolve all issues before you even start doing anything. Even if you owe something "on your word of honor" - it is better to pay off your debts. After all, we Ukrainians are good and honest people! It is necessary to maintain a good reputation if we want to count on some kind of help in the future. 

Take care to safely store currency, credit cards, and other valuables

Use digital copies of documents. Create scans or photos and store them in a secure cloud or on an external storage medium. This will help you recover documents if they are lost or stolen.

Don't put all your eggs in one basket. Distribute important items in secure areas of your luggage. Or if you do put everything in one place - buy a reliable backpack or a military-style bag - they are made of materials that are almost impossible to cut with an ordinary knife. Also, as an option, use various ropes or straps to "attach" that especially valuable backpack with documents and money to yourself, so that it is not ripped out of your hands. Ideally, it would be a good idea to lock such a backpack or bag with a key or code lock. Always keep the backpack or bag with you and never let it out of your hands. 

Any questions or problems? Contact the embassy! 

If you still have questions or problems, contacting the Ukrainian Embassy is a good step. The embassy can help in various situations related to your stay abroad.

Unique: Some embassies provide consular support services online or by phone. You can get advice from the comfort of your own home.

Consular services can help with lost passports or other documents, provide information about local laws, or provide assistance in case of illness or emergency.

Do not hesitate to seek help with immigration status, arrest, or situations where rights and interests need to be protected.

Memorize the embassy's contact information: address, phone number, e-mail. This can be useful information in case of emergency communication.

Turn to a reliable bus company

If you are planning to travel by bus, choose a reliable company. Research feedback from other passengers about service, safety and punctuality.

Check routes and schedules. Make sure the selected company provides the right routes, convenient schedules and seat availability.

Research baggage conditions and rules. Different companies may have different rules regarding the size, weight and quantity of luggage. It is important to take this into account to avoid misunderstandings at the time of travel.

Don't forget about safety. Check whether buses have safety measures such as seat belts, emergency exits and the technical condition of the buses.
Purchase your tickets in advance, especially if you plan to travel during holidays or peak season. This can save time and ensure you get a seat on the route you want. And if you want to save time and nerves, we can help you book your bus ticket.