Media: Poland increases scrutiny of Ukrainians seeking protection status

Local authorities across Poland are increasingly denying Ukrainian citizens access to the PESEL UKR temporary protection status, instead classifying many applicants as economic migrants under the NUE registration category, according to a report by Gazeta Prawna.

The shift has been observed in a growing number of municipalities, where officials have tightened verification procedures and are conducting more detailed reviews of applications submitted by Ukrainian nationals.

Under Poland's PESEL UKR system, Ukrainians fleeing Russia's invasion are entitled to temporary protection and access to a range of social benefits and public services. Applicants assigned NUE status, however, are treated as economic migrants and do not qualify for the same support measures.

Officials have reportedly focused scrutiny on applicants from Ukrainian regions not directly affected by active combat, individuals who entered Poland via another safe country, and those who already hold residence permits or protection status in another European Union member state.

Authorities are also rejecting applications submitted outside the legally prescribed deadlines. Under current regulations, Ukrainians who fail to register within the required timeframe after crossing the border are automatically ineligible for PESEL UKR status.

By Sabina Mammadli