The Center for Migration Studies at the University of Warsaw Ośrodek Badań nad Migracjami has published a new report on the situation of Ukrainians in Poland. Researchers examined their employment, income, legal status, and future plans
One of the main conclusions of the study is that many Ukrainians are considering the possibility of obtaining Polish citizenship. Currently, 3.5% of respondents already have it. Another 26% have already submitted documents for a Polish passport, while 28% admit that they might do so in the future. At the same time, 28% do not plan to obtain Polish citizenship, and 17% did not answer the question.
The head of the center, Professor Paweł Kaczmarczyk, considers this data particularly important. According to him, a significant number of Ukrainians currently in Poland under temporary protection may become Polish citizens in a few years
At the same time, the expert warned: if the negative attitude towards Ukrainians continues to intensify, it could become a problem not only for the migrants but also for Poland, of which they may become citizens
Among Ukrainians who do not yet have Polish citizenship, the most common status is temporary protection. This is held by 60% of the study participants. Another 27% are in Poland on a temporary residence permit. Only 6% have a permanent residence permit or another document confirming long-term residence.
Kaczmarczyk noted that the authorities are familiar with such studies, but do not always take them into account when making decisions. In his opinion, Polish authorities too often focus on public sentiment instead of developing a long-term and balanced migration policy
At the same time, the situation of Ukrainians in the labor market is gradually improving. The share of those employed has increased from 69% to 83% in recent years
However, the incomes of many remain relatively low. About 40% of respondents earn up to 5,000 zł gross per month. A year ago, this figure was nearly 50%. More than 9,500 zł per month is earned by 18% of the study participants.
The study involved 1,892 Ukrainian migrants. The report is titled “Ukrainians in Poland in 2026.”
