A social survey found that one in three Ukrainians currently living in Poland arrived in the country less than six months ago. Thus, the percentage of those who entered the country as refugees has significantly decreased. Find out what the main purpose of Ukrainians travelling to Poland is now
Legal advice for Ukrainians
Ukrainians continue to be one of the largest migrant groups in Poland, but the composition of the Ukrainian community has changed significantly in recent years. With reference to a survey conducted by the Gremi Personal think tank, we will tell you about the categories of Ukrainians currently living in Poland.
Ukrainians in Poland now: basic figures
According to a survey conducted in December last year, the majority of Ukrainians in Poland are those who arrived relatively recently:
• Less than six months ago – 37%,
• 2 years ago – 23%,
• 3 years ago – 15%,
• 5 years and more – 10%,
• A year ago – 9%,
• 4 years ago – 6%.
These results show that Poland remains attractive to new migrants. Since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion, many Ukrainians have sought refuge here, but the survey shows that today only 15% of those in Poland arrived in the country at the outbreak of the war.
The portrait of a Ukrainian migrant in Poland also has its own characteristics:
• 67% are women.
• 40% are people aged 36-54 (the most active age group).
• 37% are young people under the age of 25.
• 20% are Ukrainians aged 26-35.
• 3% are over 55 years old.
The majority of Ukrainians (58%) come to Poland alone, which once again underlines the dominant role of labour migration. The rest arrive with friends (16%), relatives (13%) or as couples (10%).
Labour migration as the main motive
Poland attracts Ukrainians due to its geographical proximity, common cultural traditions and favourable working conditions. According to Anna Dzhobolda, Director of Recruitment at Gremi Personal, ‘the main group of newcomers are labour migrants who work in Poland, earn money and return home, supporting the Ukrainian economy.’
These changes also demonstrate that the Polish economy continues to be dependent on Ukrainian labour. The majority of migrants choose temporary contracts, which allows them to maintain ties with their homeland and take an active part in its recovery.
Ukrainians have a significant impact on both economies. By working in Poland, they contribute to strengthening the local labour market. At the same time, the money they earn is returned to Ukraine, where it helps to maintain consumption and rebuild the economy after the war.
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We remind you! Since the beginning of 2025, the minimum wage threshold for obtaining a residence card has been changed in Poland. We talked about the new requirements and how they will affect Ukrainians.