Poland’s government has rejected claims circulating online that Ukrainians with Polish citizenship will gain their own representation in the Sejm, the country’s lower house of parliament.
Far-Right Politicians React to Misleading Reports
The controversy began after several far-right Polish politicians reacted to online posts suggesting Ukrainians living in Poland could soon elect their own representatives.
Włodzimierz Skalik, MP from the Confederation of the Polish Crown, called it a “dangerous signal,” claiming that “Poland cannot be an arena for foreign influence.”
Similarly, Sławomir Mentzen from the New Hope party accused some lawmakers of “pursuing Ukrainian interests” and urged an end to granting citizenship to Ukrainians.
These comments were based on misinterpreted media reports claiming Ukrainians could be represented in the Sejm as early as 2027.
No Plans for Special Representation
According to Poland’s Interior Ministry, there are no plans to introduce special parliamentary representation for Ukrainians or other national groups. The confusion stems from a Ukrainian article referring to proposed amendments to Poland’s Assistance to Citizens of Ukraine law—which would actually make citizenship harder to obtain.
Currently, foreigners must live in Poland for five years before applying for a permanent residence permit, and then reside another three years before seeking citizenship. The proposed change would extend this period to ten years.
Polish Citizenship Rules Explained
To qualify for citizenship, applicants must:
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Speak Polish fluently
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Have stable income and accommodation
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Respect Poland’s legal order
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Pose no threat to national security
Citizenship is granted at the President’s discretion, who may approve or reject applications at any time.
Rising Ukrainian Population in Poland
According to government data, over 1.57 million Ukrainians currently hold valid residence permits in Poland. Nearly one million of them are beneficiaries of temporary protection after fleeing Russia’s invasion.
Between January and June 2025, Poland granted citizenship to over 7,500 Ukrainians, including minors processed with their parents’ applications.
Unfounded Political Fears
Despite far-right warnings that Ukrainians could gain political influence, official figures and proposed laws suggest the opposite — citizenship requirements are likely to become stricter, not looser.