Polish Authorities Conduct Nationwide Migration Sweep Targeting Ukrainians

On March 2 and 3, 2026, Polish law enforcement, including the police and the Border Guard, executed a large-scale operation across the country, resulting in the detention of nearly 2,000 individuals. This operation, involving over 27,000 officers, specifically targeted foreign nationals, with Ukrainian citizens making up the largest group among those detained. The authorities reported that 147 foreigners were wanted under arrest warrants, and many were found to be residing in Poland illegally.

The recent operation follows a significant legislative shift in Poland regarding the status of Ukrainian refugees. In February 2026, President Karol Nawrocki signed a law that incorporated support measures for Ukrainian refugees into the general Law on the Protection of Foreigners, effectively ending the separate legal framework that had been in place since 2022. This change has sparked political debate, particularly concerning the rights and protections afforded to Ukrainian citizens in Poland.

The primary reasons for the deportation orders issued during the raids included violations of stay limits, such as expired visas or temporary protection status. Additionally, illegal labor practices, particularly working without official contracts, were highlighted as significant factors leading to deportation. The Polish Border Guard has initiated over 110 administrative proceedings for expulsion, with bans on entering the Schengen Area ranging from six months to five years for those affected.

Interior Minister Marcin Kierwinski announced the results of the operation, emphasizing that this was the first such action of 2026. He noted that the raids were part of a broader strategy to enhance migration controls and ensure compliance with legal residency requirements. The Ukrainian Embassy clarified that the initiation of return proceedings does not equate to immediate deportation, as the process can take weeks or months and is subject to appeal.

The recent legislative changes and the mass deportation orders have drawn criticism from various groups. Advocates for refugees argue that the new law undermines the protections previously afforded to Ukrainians fleeing the conflict with Russia. Concerns have been raised about the potential for increased vulnerability among Ukrainian refugees and the implications of stricter immigration enforcement.

Polish authorities have indicated that such operations will become a regular occurrence, reflecting a sustained effort to manage migration and enforce immigration laws. The ongoing situation will likely continue to evolve as the implications of the new legislation and the outcomes of the deportation proceedings unfold.

• “The Ukrainian Embassy stressed that the initiation of return proceedings does not mean an immediate deportation, but a start of a process that can take weeks or months and can be appealed.” — Ukrainian Embassy

• “com/Tc4EDyaach — Marcin Kierwinski (@MKierwinski) March 4, 2026 Interior Minister Marcin Kierwinski stated that this was the first such action of 2026.” — Marcin Kierwinski, Interior Minister

• “com/mIDBGEEJYp — Polska Policja ?? (@PolskaPolicja) March 4, 2026 Illegal labor remains a major factor leading to deportation during these raids.” — Polish Border Guard