Foreigners in Poland: interpersonal relations in the face of the global crisis
Foreigners in Poland often face similar problems and difficulties. This creates a basis for cooperation and mutual assistance. The presence of migrants from Ukraine has resulted in the formation of social migration networks, also involving Polish society. Cultural proximity has contributed to greater openness and understanding in a crisis. Polish society is able to respond differently, dismissing fears of foreigners settling in our country.
How do foreigners help each other?
Foreigners in Poland help each other in various ways. Support and assistance is carried spontaneously, but it is also organized on a systemic level. The first and main problem is to obtain a residence or work permit. But this can be helped by specialists in this field. They have helped many people to obtain documents without stress.
Forms of assistance provided:
- Communication and support. Foreigners can communicate with each other through social networks, online forums or live at various events. This helps them to feel less isolated and gives them the opportunity to get support from others who understand their situation.
- Information and problem-solving support. Foreigners can exchange information on laws, procedures and other aspects of life in Poland. This will help them avoid mistakes and acclimatise more quickly to their new country.
- Resources and opportunities. Foreigners can form organisations and communities that provide a variety of resources and opportunities for their members. These can include language courses, cultural events, employment assistance, etc.
Foreigners contribution to integration into Polish society
Foreigners who help each other contribute to integration into Polish society. They create communities that help foreigners to feel more comfortable and confident in their new country. These circumstances also raise awareness of the problems foreigners face and can lead to changes in policy and society. The long-standing presence of migrants who have settled in Poland for work purposes is steadily increasing. For many years, the migration balance has been positive, meaning that more people are entering Poland than leaving.
Social assistance for foreigners. Where can they get support in Poland?
Foreigners in Poland are not left on their own. There are a number of organisations and communities in Poland that help people staying in our country. These include:
- The International Student Association in Poland (ISAP) is an association of foreign students studying in Poland. ISAP provides its members with various resources and opportunities, including language courses, cultural events, employment assistance, etc.
- The Polish-Ukrainian Association (PUA) is an association of Poles and Ukrainians in Poland. The PUA deals with the integration of Ukrainians into Polish society and also provides assistance to Ukrainian refugees.
- The Polish-African Association (PAA) is an association of Poles and Africans in Poland. PAA deals with the integration of Africans into Polish society and also provides assistance to African refugees.
Application
What conditions must be met in order to receive social assistance?
Foreigners, who do not have Polish citizenship and reside in Poland, have the possibility to obtain social assistance when they hold a permanent residence permit, a residence permit for a long-term EU resident or when they have been granted refugee status or subsidiary protection in the Republic of Poland. They may benefit from benefits after the completion of the residence legalisation procedure.
Foreigners in Poland play an important role in the country's development. They bring new ideas, knowledge and skills that enrich Polish culture and economy. Foreigners who help each other contribute to integration into Polish society and make Poland a more open and hospitable country. A positive attitude towards refugees and a willingness to understand their situation makes people more open and tolerant towards migrants in the future.
More information on the legal life of foreigners in Poland: magfin.pl (en)