Poland
In Poland, victims of human trafficking have the right to various forms of assistance, regardless of whether they want to cooperate or not with law enforcement agencies. The National Intervention and Consultation Centre for Victims of Human Trafficking (KCIK) is the main provider of service for all victims, including children. Victims can receive assistance without formal identification process, but to receive a victim status, they have to be formally identified by the law enforcement authorities.
The KCIK operates a 24-hour hotline, which also offers preventive telephone counselling: +48 22 628 01 20.
Identification
In Poland, the identification process of a victim of human trafficking can be divided into two main parts: informal identification and formal identification. Presumed victims of human trafficking do not have to be formally identified in order to receive assistance and support from the National Intervention and Consultation Centre for Victims of Trafficking (KCIK). Social assistance centres, on the other hand, provide assistance only to persons who have been formally identified by law enforcement authorities.
Early and immediate assistance
In Poland, victims of human trafficking have the right to various forms of assistance, regardless of whether they want to cooperate or not with law enforcement agencies. The assistance is mainly provided by The National Intervention and Consultation Centre for Victims of Human Trafficking (KCIK) or the Social Assistance Centres. The latter operates only when the victim has been formally identified. KCIK is the main care provider for child victims.
Temporary residence permits
In Poland, a temporary residence permit for victims of human trafficking can be granted to a presumed foreign victim with certain conditions. The temporary residence permit can be granted for a time between six months to maximum of three years.
Pre-trial investigation and criminal proceedings
Victims participating in the criminal proceedings have the right to receive free medical, psychological, rehabilitative, legal and material assistance from the Assistance Network for Victims of Crime based on the Executive Penal Code (Article 43 § 8(1). Child victims participating in court proceedings receive additional protection. Compensation can be obtained from the perpetrator(s) through criminal and civil proceedings and/or from the State through the Justice Fund.
Long-term assistance and residence permits
A foreigner who is a victim of trafficking in human beings may obtain a permanent residence permit, if they meet certain conditions. The permanent residence permit gives the victim a right to work in Poland. KCIK provides long-term assistance to victims. The children of the victim are also eligible for long-term assistance.
Voluntary return and reintegration
All EU and third-country nationals who have been recognised as victims of human trafficking and who express their willingness to leave Poland are entitled to free return assistance by the International Organisation for Migration (IOM). IOM implements the programme in cooperation with the Border Guard and the Office for Foreigners.
