In Poland, there has been a significant increase in the number of applications for international protection filed by Ukrainian nationals, in particular men. Since mid-2023, the number of such applications has increased sharply, which has led to a delay in the consideration of cases, now taking about 15 months. The Office for Foreigners has recorded the activity of intermediaries who encourage the application for protection as a quick way to legalise stay.
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The main reason for such applications, according to the Office, is the fear of mobilisation in Ukraine. However, these applications do not always meet the requirements for refugee status, as fear of mobilisation is not a ground for international protection. The Office emphasises that filing an application may result in the loss of social benefits and significant restrictions, including the inability to leave Poland during the proceedings. In case of refusal to grant protection, foreigners may find themselves in a worse position regarding the legality of their stay in Poland.
Much attention is also paid to the region of Ukraine from which the applicant came and whether he or she has objective and individual grounds for applying. Each applicant will be questioned and required to explain in detail the reasons for their application for protection.
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