Poland Immigration Update 2025: Key Policy Changes & What It Means

Poland Immigration Update 2025 | New Migration Strategy & Border Controls.
Discover Poland’s new Migration Strategy 2025‑2030, stricter asylum rules, border checkpoints, integration centres & Ukraine refugee challenges.

1. New Polish Migration Strategy 2025–2030

In October 2024, the Polish government adopted a strategy titled «Regain Control, Ensure Security», aimed at reshaping migration policy. This strategy focuses on security, digitization, and better control of who enters the country, based on their origin and immigration purpose.

Key changes include:

• Legal reforms defining entry eligibility based on country and purpose.
• Digitization of residence permits and visa procedures.
• Integration assessments and quotas for foreign students.

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2. Stricter Asylum and Border Control Laws

As of March 2025, a new law signed by President Duda severely limits asylum eligibility for migrants entering irregularly from Belarus. The measure is part of a broader effort to counter what authorities call «hybrid warfare.»

Additionally, in July, Poland reinstated temporary border checks with Germany and Lithuania. This was done to manage increased asylum flows and alleged smuggling routes from Russia and Belarus.

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3. Rise of Anti-Migration Vigilante Patrols

The far-right Border Defence Movement (ROG) has gained visibility, organizing civilian patrols at the German border. These actions have pressured the government to deploy over 5,000 military personnel and reinstate checkpoint infrastructure.

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4. Integration Centres & Administrative Overload

Poland plans to launch 49 EU-funded integration centres where migrants can receive language training, psychological support, and legal advice.

However, the National Audit Office (NIK) reports that immigration offices are overwhelmed. Residence permit processing can take over a year, with some cases reportedly delayed up to 7 years.

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5. Economic Impact of Ukrainian Migrants

An official report by BGK Bank shows that over 1.5 million Ukrainian refugees now represent around 5% of Poland’s workforce, contributing positively to both GDP and public revenues. They generate between 0.5% and 2.4% of annual economic growth, outweighing the cost of social services.

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✅ What It Means for Applicants & Stakeholders

• Asylum seekers face tougher barriers, especially those crossing irregularly.
• Administrative delays are severe. Legal migrants must prepare for long waiting times.
• Students and economic migrants are being screened more rigorously.
• Ukrainian refugees contribute economically but face structural disadvantages.
• Border enforcement is increasing, and public opinion is increasingly polarized.