An amendment to the Special Act on Refugees from Ukraine

Attention! An amendment to the Special Act on Refugees from Ukraine

• Ukrainian citizens who have been entering the territory of the Republic of Poland since 24 February 2022 in connection with the armed conflict on the territory of Ukraine, other otherwise than by crossing the Polish-Ukrainian border, may benefit from the rights provided for in the Special Act. This amendment comes into force on the day of its announcement, with effect from 24 February 2022.

• A register is being created of minor citizens of Ukraine who came to the territory of the Republic of Poland without the care of their actual guardians, as well as of those who came to the territory of the Republic of Poland and before their arrival, had been placed in foster custody in Ukraine.

• Formal requirements for temporary guardians and candidates for foster families or willing to run a family orphanage were made more specific; it has been clarified when one person can act as a temporary guardian for more than one minor; the right to family benefits for the child has been granted to the temporary guardian. Amendments in this regard will enter into force on the day following the date of publication, with effect from 24 February 2022.

• Poviat Family Assistance Centers have been obliged to support Social Welfare Centers, Social Service Centers or other organizational units in their duties aimed at overseeing whether rights and obligations of temporary guardians and Ukrainian children staying under their care are complied with. PFACs will also provide organizational and psychological support to temporary guardians and minor Ukrainian citizens placed under their care.