Sejm passes law on legal status of closest person for same-sex couples
Poland's parliament has approved legislation creating a new legal status for same-sex couples called "status of the closest person." President Nawrocki indicated he would sign the bill into law.
On May 29, 2026, Poland's Sejm (lower house of parliament) passed a groundbreaking bill establishing legal recognition for same-sex relationships through a new category called "status of the closest person" (status osoby najbliższej). The legislation marks a historic shift in a country that still does not permit same-sex civil unions or marriages under domestic law.
What the law provides
The new status will grant same-sex couples certain legal rights that have previously been unavailable, including medical decision-making authority, inheritance rights, and other protections for partners. While falling short of full marriage or civil partnership equality, the law represents the first formal legal recognition of same-sex relationships in Poland's domestic legislation.
President Karol Nawrocki has indicated he will sign the bill, despite his alignment with the conservative opposition. In comments on May 29, he stated "Taką ustawę podpiszę" ("I will sign such a law"), suggesting the measure will soon take effect.
Context and significance
The decision marks a significant change in Polish law, which currently offers no legal recognition for same-sex couples. In November 2025, the European Union's highest court ordered Poland to register same-sex marriages concluded in other EU countries, even though Polish law does not currently permit such marriages domestically. This ruling created pressure for some form of legal framework.
The passage comes amid broader debates about LGBTQ+ rights in Poland, which has been at the center of European attention on this issue for several years.
For foreigners in Poland: If you are in a same-sex relationship and living in Poland, this new law will provide important legal protections that were previously unavailable. Once signed and implemented, you should be able to register your status and gain rights related to healthcare decisions, inheritance, and other family matters. Keep an eye on implementation details and registration procedures, which will likely be announced in the coming weeks.
