Poland will require some foreign nationals to demonstrate employment or health insurance eligibility to receive a 300 zł school start benefit beginning July 1, 2026.
Changes to the “Good Start” Benefit in 2026
Changes are coming to the “Good Start” program, which provides 300 zł towards school supplies. Starting in 2026, some foreign nationals will no longer automatically qualify for the benefit.
The key change involves requiring proof of employment or health insurance coverage in Poland for certain foreign nationals to receive the 300 zł school supply allowance.
Impact on Foreign Nationals, Including Ukrainians
The new regulations will apply to foreign nationals, including those with temporary protection status in Poland, particularly those holding a PESEL number with the “UKR” status granted after the outbreak of the war in Ukraine.
These individuals will still be eligible for the “Good Start” benefit, but in many cases, they will need to demonstrate employment in Poland to qualify.
Exceptions to the Employment Requirement
The proposed legislation includes exceptions. The benefit will still be available to parents who are not employed but are covered by public health insurance.
Support for Children Without Parental Care
Special provisions are included for children who have arrived in Poland without parents. In these cases, a temporary guardian or a person designated by the child’s country of origin can apply for the “Good Start” benefit on their behalf.
Increased Verification and Potential for ZUS Contact
The Social Insurance Institution (ZUS) will receive new tools to verify information provided in applications. ZUS will independently verify the “UKR” status of individuals with temporary protection.
ZUS may request applicants to appear in person at a ZUS office within three business days if doubts arise regarding eligibility. Failure to appear may result in the application being rejected.
Verification of School Enrollment
ZUS will also verify whether a child is actually enrolled in school by checking data in the National Education Information System.
Payment of the benefit will be suspended if school enrollment cannot be confirmed, and funds will only be released once the school confirms the child’s continued education.
Benefit Disbursement for Children in Foster Care
In cases where a child is under the care of a foreign authority, the benefit will not be paid directly to the guardian. Funds will first be transferred to the county’s account, which oversees the child’s care.
Effective Date of New Regulations
The new regulations will first be applied to applications for the 2026/2027 school year, with applications accepted from July 1, 2026.
The government anticipates that the new regulations will not significantly reduce the number of eligible individuals, as employment rates among foreign nationals in Poland are high.
