Ukrainian Refugee Status or Pobytu Card?

Poland was one of the first countries to accept Ukrainian refugees since the beginning of the full-scale invasion. Many Ukrainian citizens have been living there for more than 2 years, receiving social benefits or being employed on general grounds. The status of temporary protection “ukr” gives a variety of preferences that allow to stay afloat in a foreign country. At the same time, the gradual decrease in support for refugees, tightening of the rules of stay on the territory of Poland, encourages to reconsider their social status and request for a visit card.

What is the difference between a UCR and a residence card?

Crossing the Polish border as a refugee, Ukrainian citizens receive the status of temporary protection “ukr”. It implies broad rights and opportunities, slightly inferior to Polish citizenship. In particular, they relate to the authorization for employment in any industry, including private entrepreneurship, regardless of the length of stay in the country. At the same time, it has such limitations, compared to a visit card:

• limited period of validity - until September 30, 2025, after which it is compulsory to obtain a pobytu card;
• restrictions on certain types of social benefits;
• prohibition to apply for a mortgage;
• permission to travel to the Schengen zone for a period of up to 30 days, as opposed to a visit card, which implies travel for up to 90 or 180 days.

The residence card gives much more opportunities for legalization in the country, in particular for study and work. It is possible to find a good job with the status “Ukr”, but the employer must issue a work invitation and register it in the Uząd.

Social benefits

It is not recommended to switch to a residence card for those who have not yet found a decent job in Poland. Unlike the status of temporary protection, the card does not entitle you to any benefits and, accordingly, social payments. The only bonus is the right to free medical care, provided you have an insurance policy. Its form - compulsory or voluntary insurance - does not matter. To use medical services it is necessary to register in the local health insurance system and regularly pay insurance premiums.

The status of “ukr” implies such types of assistance:

• free temporary accommodation in a refugee center;
• full 24-hour meals;
• psychological assistance.

These are optimal conditions for starting in a foreign country. While living in a refugee center, one can look for a job, get employed, gradually improving living conditions. Professional activity or opening your own business will allow you to apply for a temporary residence permit - a residence card.

Read also: Medical care for Ukrainians in Poland: how to make an appointment with a doctor

There is no unambiguous answer to the question, which status is better, because it depends on the specific conditions of stay in Poland, as well as further plans. Citizens who want to establish themselves there, it is advisable to strive to obtain a visit card. If in the nearest plans to return to Ukraine, it is possible to enjoy the privileges of the status “Ukr” until the fall of 2025.