As of March 27, 2025, temporary restrictions on applying for international protection have been introduced along the entire Polish-Belarusian border.These restrictions apply both at official border crossings and along the so-called “green” border.
The restriction is initially in effect for 60 days but may be extended.
What does this mean?
The Border Guard will no longer accept applications for international protection — except in the following cases:
- The applicant is an unaccompanied minor;
- The applicant is a pregnant woman;
- The applicant requires special treatment due to age or health condition;
- There is clear evidence that in the country from which the applicant arrived directly to the territory of Poland, he/she may be facing serious danger;
- The applicant is a citizen of a country from which organized migration is taking place and they arrived directly from that country (this appears to imply that applications from Belarusians will continue to be accepted at the border).
However, these exceptions will not apply if the person attempted to cross the border using violence and in a group.
In practice, while Polish border guards previously accepted international protection claims at the border (though not always consistently), they are now legally entitled not to accept them.
Although the regulation includes formal exceptions, they are narrow and restrictive, and how they will be applied in practice remains uncertain.
If you believe you fall under one of the exceptions, prepare supporting documents in advance — for example, medical certificates, decisions issued by Belarusian authorities, or other documentary evidence.
If you do not meet the criteria for the exceptions, please remember: you can always seek protection inside Belarus.
