ZUS warns Ukrainian refugees to verify identity by August 31

The Social Insurance Institution (ZUS) has issued a critical reminder to certain Ukrainian citizens residing in Poland regarding the mandatory verification of their identity. The deadline for this procedure is August 31, 2026.

This requirement specifically applies to individuals who were granted a PESEL number with UKR status without presenting a valid travel document, such as a passport. This situation frequently involves children who were registered in the system during the early stages of the war based on declarations rather than official travel documents.

Failure to confirm identity at a local municipal office by the deadline will result in the automatic change of status from UKR to NUE starting September 1, 2026. This change leads to the expiration of temporary protection and the subsequent loss of rights, including eligibility for the 800+ child benefit program. To maintain these benefits, recipients must ensure their stay is legal and, for school-aged children, that they attend Polish schools or kindergartens.

Additionally, ZUS emphasizes that for digital processing, applicants must ensure their identity is verified through the PUE ZUS platform using tools like a Trusted Profile, mObywatel, or electronic banking to prevent disruptions in benefit payments.