Many people working in Poland on a temporary residence permit do not know they can apply for the 800+ child benefit. This programme — known since 2024 as 800+ (formerly 500+) — is not limited to Polish citizens. Find out who qualifies and how to apply.
What is the 800+ Benefit?
The 800+ is a monthly payment of 800 PLN per child aged up to 18. Since November 2023 the amount increased from 500 PLN to 800 PLN per month. The benefit is designed to help cover the costs of raising and educating children.
The programme is administered by the Polish Social Insurance Institution (ZUS). Applications are submitted online via the PUE ZUS portal or through your bank.
Who Can Receive 800+?
Foreign workers in Poland are eligible if they:
- Are legally residing in Poland (temporary residence card, visa, or UKR protection status)
- Are employed in Poland or running a business
- Have children who also live in Poland
Important for Ukrainian citizens: Persons residing in Poland under temporary protection (UKR status) are entitled to 800+ under the same conditions as Polish citizens.
Who Does NOT Qualify?
- Persons in Poland solely on a tourist (Schengen) visa
- Persons whose children live abroad
- Persons without valid legal residence status
How to Apply for 800+
- Online via PUE ZUS — after creating an account at pue.zus.pl and verifying your identity (through Profil Zaufany or online banking)
- Through your bank — many banks (PKO BP, ING, mBank, Santander) provide the application form
- Paper form at a ZUS office — download from zus.pl and submit in person or by post
What Documents Do You Need?
- Proof of legal residence in Poland (residence card, UKR status confirmation)
- PESEL numbers for the child and the applicant
- Child's birth certificate (if born abroad, a certified translation may be required)
Amount and Payment
The benefit is 800 PLN per month per child under 18. The amount is fixed regardless of family income. Payments go to the bank account provided in the application, usually within 1-2 weeks of submission. The benefit period is 12 months, after which you renew the application.
What If Your Application Is Rejected?
If ZUS rejects your application, you have the right to appeal. Contact the ZUS telephone helpline (22 560 16 00) or visit a ZUS advice point. Many NGOs supporting foreigners (e.g. Caritas, Fundacja Ocalenie) can help with the appeal process.
Summary
The 800+ benefit is real financial support for families with children living in Poland, including foreign temporary workers. If your residence status is in order, apply as soon as possible. Do not miss out on money you are entitled to.