Poland Cuts Refugee Support at Collective Housing Centers as of July 1

As of July 1, 2026, Poland has discontinued government funding for accommodation at collective refugee centers (OZZ – Ośrodki Zbiorczego Zamieszkania) for most residents, particularly Ukrainian citizens who arrived after Russia's 2022 invasion. The government continues to provide support only to particularly vulnerable groups, marking another step in the gradual phase-out of comprehensive refugee housing assistance.

Program changes

• Approximately 11,000 people were living in these centers at no cost, with about half being children
• Government cited the fact that a significant portion of Ukrainians have already secured employment as reason for the scaled reduction
• The ombudsman has raised concerns about risks to vulnerable populations, including families with children who may lack alternative housing

Poland's Ministry of Interior and Administration framed the decision as a natural progression: as Ukrainian refugees stabilize their employment and income, the emergency accommodation program shifts from universal to targeted support. The ministry emphasized that other integration programs remain available. However, rights advocates warn the decision could leave some families without adequate housing, particularly those still seeking stable employment.

For expat families and Ukrainian refugees: If you currently live in an OZZ center or are considering seeking such accommodation, verify your eligibility for continued support immediately—you may qualify as a vulnerable person if you have dependent children, health issues, or documented inability to secure private housing. Contact your local integration office (Ośrodek Integracji Imigrantów) or the Ministry of Interior for alternative housing support programs. This deadline was firm as of July 1.

Sources

• Visit Ukraine — Poland reduces support at OZZ collective accommodation centers
• TVN24.pl — OZZ funding changes