In Poland, deadlines for residence permit applications frozen until March 2027. But for international protection — returned
Polish President Karol Nawrocki signed a law on the cessation of decisions regulating aid to refugees in connection with the armed conflict in Ukraine. It envisages a gradual transition from separate regulations on assistance to Ukrainians to general standards, but also affects the situation of other foreigners in Poland.
The law does not abolish the most important instruments of temporary protection for Ukrainians, but transfers them to the law on granting protection to foreigners, including extending the legality of stay for citizens of Ukraine in Poland until March 4, 2027, writes Most.
Despite the fact that the law mainly concerns Ukrainians, it also affects the interests of citizens of other countries. One of the most unpleasant measures for them was the extension of the freeze on deadlines for processing residence permit applications until March 4, 2027.
State authorities will continue to accept and process applications, but may not adhere to the established deadlines.
This exception to the rules was adopted in early 2022 due to the influx of Ukrainian refugees and has been repeatedly extended, causing legalization to drag on for years.
In autumn 2025, deadlines for international protection applications were similarly frozen. The suspension is valid until March 4, 2026 — but, unlike other legalization procedures, it will not be extended. Thus, the Office for Foreigners will again have to issue decisions within 6 months, with the possibility of extension up to 15 months.
With the exception of certain provisions, the law comes into force on March 5, 2026.
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