Ukrainian refugees in the UK: the threat of losing jobs and housing due to uncertainty with visas

Despite the fact that attitudes towards Ukrainian refugees are gradually changing in Poland, the country continues to provide them with substantial support. One of the most important aspects of assistance is the free housing program, which allows to temporarily cover rent costs for the most vulnerable categories of Ukrainians.

Ukrainian refugees living in collective accommodation centers can receive financial support that will cover up to six months of housing rent. However, this opportunity is not available to everyone. The program “Razem do zasznejności” (“Together to independence”), which operates on the territory of the country, is aimed primarily at those who, due to financial difficulties, are forced to live in collective accommodation centers.

Who is entitled to free housing

The aid is intended for refugees who are unable to rent housing on their own. First of all, it is:

• large families;
• mothers with children, especially if their husbands are at the front or working in Ukraine;
• pensioners;
• people with disabilities;
• families with children with disabilities.

It is important to note that other categories of Ukrainians who came to Poland because of the war, but are not in collective accommodation centers, cannot take advantage of this program.

What does the assistance program provide?

In addition to compensation for rental costs, “Together to Independence” also includes job search support. Many Ukrainian refugees face difficulties in finding employment due to the language barrier, the lack of certified diplomas and the difficulty of adapting to new conditions.

The main goal of the program is to promote the financial independence of Ukrainians in Poland. That is why it includes not only temporary coverage of housing costs, but also counseling support and integration of refugees into the local labor market.

Financing is supported by the European Commission and coordinated by the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Poland in cooperation with non-governmental organizations. This initiative became one of the key ways to help Ukrainians who were forced to leave their homes because of the war.

Changes in refugee policy

It is worth noting that changes in legislation have been taking place in Poland recently, which may affect Ukrainian refugees. In particular, the conditions for obtaining a residence card – a long-term residence permit – were changed.

From 2025, the Polish government increased the minimum wage required to obtain a residence card. This means that Ukrainians with lower incomes may lose their right to permanent status in the country.

Despite all the difficulties, Poland remains one of the key countries that continue to support Ukrainian refugees. Although sentiment among the local population is changing, the government continues to implement aid programs, especially for the most vulnerable.

Currently, the “Together to Independence” program remains one of the important ways of supporting Ukrainians who have found themselves in a difficult situation due to the war. However, it is important to remember that the rules can change, so Ukrainian migrants should keep a close eye on updates in the legislation and the possibilities of receiving assistance.