Biznes Fakty
Presidential veto: „Thousands of people will lose the opportunity to work legally”
The veto by President Karol Nawrocki concerning the legislation aimed at assisting Ukrainian citizens threatens the stability of the economy, Poland’s international commitments, and the overall security of the nation, as stated by the Ministry of Interior and Administration. The ministry warned that starting from October 1, 2025, numerous individuals would lose their legal right to work.
On Monday, President Karol Nawrocki declared that he had not endorsed the amendment to the law regarding support for Ukrainian citizens. He defended his choice, among other reasons, by asserting that the 800+ benefit should be exclusively available to Ukrainians employed in Poland, and access to healthcare for them was dependent on making health insurance payments.
Ministry’s Response to the President’s Veto
On Tuesday, the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Administration released a statement on the issue. It noted that the government led by Prime Minister Donald Tusk had developed legislation designed to enhance security, establish clear guidelines for war refugees from Ukraine, and primarily, reduce state budget expenditures.
„These were rational, equitable, and advantageous measures for Polish men and women. Regrettably, President Karol Nawrocki, by vetoing the bill, opted for a different approach. His decision jeopardizes economic stability, social unity, Poland’s international responsibilities, and the safety of the entire nation,” the statement indicated.
It is anticipated that Ukrainians will continue to reside in Poland following the president’s veto. „The conflict in Ukraine persists. War refugees will remain here, yet without definitive regulations. This implies that from October 1, 2025, thousands will forfeit their ability to work legally,” the report mentioned.
The ministry expressed concerns about the potential for illegal employment, which could adversely affect businesses and elevate inspection costs. Moreover, the absence of legal employment would result in lost tax revenues, health insurance, and social security contributions that currently help finance the healthcare and social benefits system in Poland. The ministry asserted that no one would gain from this veto. Budget revenues will diminish while expenditures will increase beyond their current levels.
800 Plus for Ukrainians and Border Crossing
The Ministry of Interior and Administration reassured that the government has not abandoned the concept of tying the 800 plus benefit to employment.
„Such a measure will be proposed for all foreign nationals in a separate piece of legislation. This would prevent all potential abuses, thereby benefiting the state budget. Poles would also be assured that the funds are allocated only to those genuinely entitled to the benefits,” the release stated.
The Ministry of Interior and Administration believes that the president’s veto is also a setback for security.
„The law proposed stricter regulations on Local Border Traffic and required the registration of fingerprints for Ukrainian citizens entering the country. These were measures designed to safeguard citizens from crime and equip services with effective tools. Now Poland is left without these protections, and the potential for abuse and criminal activity is increasing,” the report highlighted.
State Finances
The ministry indicated that the most significant repercussions are financial, as by rejecting the bill, President Karol Nawrocki has created the possibility of needing to amend the budget law and incur additional costs of up to PLN 8 billion annually. These expenses arise, among other things, from the administrative processing of potentially millions of applications that will be directed to provincial offices.
„It should also be anticipated that a large number of Ukrainians will seek international protection, which will considerably escalate the costs associated with managing this system. This will lead to less funding for local projects, diminished resources for schools, hospitals, and social assistance. Every Polish family will feel this impact in their finances,” the report added.
Additionally, the Ministry of Interior and Administration emphasizes that there will be costs related to caring for the elderly and disabled who arrived in Poland at the onset of the war and have no place to return to. Presently, they receive assistance under the aid system, which is much more economical than the general system.
„This Veto Will Not Halt Migration, Will Not Enhance Security, and Will Not Decrease Costs”
The ministry asserts that rather than safeguarding citizens, President Karol Nawrocki is exacerbating the chaos and shifting the financial burden onto the Polish populace. „It is not the government’s measures, but his veto that will lead to increased costs for us. This veto will not stop migration, will not improve security, and will not reduce expenses. Ukrainians will remain in Poland, but instead of engaging in legal work and paying taxes, many will find themselves outside the system, which will negatively impact the economy and every Polish household,” the statement concluded.
Simultaneously, according to the Ministry of Interior and Administration, the legislation proposed by the president is not holistic, does not address the challenges associated with foreign nationals, and poses the risk of overwhelming voivodeship offices due to the surge in applications for residency legalization under the new regulations.
„The approach being considered by the government is comprehensive and addresses
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