How refugees can avoid difficulties when returning to Poland after a trip to Ukraine for the New Year holidays
With the New Year and Christmas approaching, many Ukrainians who found temporary shelter in Poland due to the war are planning to visit their relatives for the holidays. For those who are in Poland with the status of temporary protection, the issue of departure and return is extremely important, because violation of the established rules can lead to the loss of this status. IA “FAKT” talks about what nuances should be taken into account to make the holiday visit safe and trouble-free.
Documents required for return
In order to avoid difficulties when returning to Poland after a trip abroad, citizens of Ukraine with the status of temporary protection should have one of the following documents:
- Diia.pl is an electronic document confirming the status of temporary protection in Poland. This document makes it possible to pass border control faster and is an official confirmation of the right to stay in the country.
- A biometric passport is the main document for entering Poland under the rules of the visa-free regime.
A biometric passport is the most common option, but it requires compliance with the rules of the Schengen zone, which allows a maximum stay of 90 days in a 180-day period.
Duration of departure: what the law provides
According to the law dated May 15, 2024, Ukrainians who enjoy the status of temporary protection in Poland can leave the country for no more than 30 days in a row. If this term is exceeded, the status is considered lost.
This rule only applies to long trips. For example, if you plan several short trips (10 days in December and 10 days in January), your temporary protection status will remain valid.
However, it is important to take into account that the control of compliance with this rule is carried out by the border service, therefore, in case of doubt, additional documents may be requested.
Potential risks and how to avoid them
Although the law allows you to return to Poland after a short stay, in practice there may be complications, especially if the return is made with a biometric passport.
In 2023, the border service recorded more than 20,000 cases of refusal of entry, which were caused by:
- lack of documents confirming the right to temporary protection;
- violation of visa-free regime rules;
- inconsistency of the declared purpose of stay.
To avoid problems:
- Make sure your Diia.pl is valid and available for use.
- If you use a biometric passport, prepare additional documents that confirm your status in Poland (for example, a housing rental agreement, confirmation of employment or other official documents).
- Before your trip, check the current rules with the Polish Border Service or consult a lawyer.
How to act in case of problems at the border
If you encounter difficulties when returning to Poland, for example, border guards require additional documents or question your status, seek legal help.
There are organizations in Poland that specialize in migration issues and help Ukrainians. In particular, you can turn to Visit Ukraine lawyers, who provide advice on all aspects of migration law and help resolve disputed issues.
Why is it important to follow the rules?
The status of temporary protection guarantees Ukrainians access to social services, medical care, the right to work and a legal stay in Poland. Its loss can be a serious problem for those who depend on these rights.
Therefore, when planning holiday trips, you should carefully prepare all documents, follow the established deadlines and rules. This will allow not only to enjoy the winter holidays in the circle of relatives, but also to safely return to Poland after the trip.
