Residence permit in Europe

The law firm "Prikhodko&Partners" offers professional support in obtaining a residence permit in Europe for citizens of Ukraine. In modern realities, when the temporary protection status for Ukrainians in the countries of the European Union is approaching its end, obtaining a residence permit is becoming an important step to ensure stability and legal stay. This article reveals the key aspects of obtaining a residence permit, the grounds for its issuance, the countries with the simplest procedures and the advantages of working with our migration lawyers.

Why is a residence permit in Europe important for Ukrainians?

For Ukrainian citizens who have found refuge in the European Union countries due to the war, the protection status has become a temporary and facilitated solution. However, this status, introduced by the EU Council Directive 2001/55/EC, is valid until March 2025, and its further fate depends on the decisions of individual countries, as well as the decision of the EU Council.

Some European countries may simplify the transition from temporary protection to a residence permit or a new “special status”, while others may establish stricter requirements related to the need to undergo additional procedures to obtain a residence permit. Each European Union country will independently determine its strategy for Ukrainian refugees after 2025.

Applying for a residence permit now allows Ukrainians to avoid the uncertainty associated with the possible termination of temporary protection. A residence permit in Europe provides long-term stability, the right to work, education, social guarantees and the opportunity to plan for the future. For example, in Poland or Germany, where the largest number of Ukrainians live, switching to a residence permit can open access to integration programs, i.e. the beginning of the gradual acquisition by a citizen of Ukraine of the citizenship of another European country.

Main grounds for obtaining a residence permit

A residence permit in Europe for Ukrainians can be obtained on various grounds, depending on the legislation of a particular country. The main categories include:

1. Employment. Most countries of the European Union issue a residence permit on the basis of an employment contract. For example, in Poland or the Czech Republic, the employer can help to issue a permit for employees.
2. Family reunification. Ukrainian citizens whose close relatives legally reside in Europe and already have a residence permit can apply for reunification. This is a popular reason in most EU countries.
3. Study. Students who have entered European universities receive a residence permit for the period of their studies. Compared to other options for legalizing their stay abroad, this option is generally the easiest to obtain and requires fewer bureaucratic procedures.
4. Humanitarian grounds. In countries where temporary protection is not automatically transformed, Ukrainians can apply for a humanitarian residence permit if returning to Ukraine is impossible.
5. Entrepreneurship. Most countries offer conditions under which entrepreneurs of various levels can formalize their stay in the territory of the selected country. Such special conditions for obtaining a residence permit exist in order to create favorable conditions for living and doing business.
6. Financially independent individuals. This option is provided by many countries as an opportunity to live in the territory of the country if there is a permanent income in another country, in particular in Ukraine.

These grounds allow citizens of Ukraine to adapt their situation to the requirements of European countries, choosing the most convenient way. Our company's lawyers will provide you with the optimal choice that suits your situation, as well as saving time and ensuring your legal status.

Terms and prospects

As a general rule, a residence permit is issued in the countries of the European Union for 1–2 years with the right to extend or change the grounds for residence. In some countries, the possibility of obtaining a residence permit for longer periods is provided, but such options are rare and are often associated either with family circumstances or with investments in the country's economy.

In any case, most countries of the European Union offer obtaining a permanent residence permit after approximately five years of residence on the basis of a temporary residence permit, which was extended by a citizen of Ukraine.

Having a residence permit — whether temporary or permanent — for 5–10 years often serves as a basis for naturalization, and also allows you to obtain citizenship of the country of your choice and fully integrate, becoming an equal member of society.

Countries with the simplest procedures for obtaining a residence permit

For Ukrainians seeking to obtain a residence permit in Europe, it is important to choose a country with affordable conditions. Let's consider the countries where the largest number of Ukrainian citizens live and their features:

• Poland. Thanks to the large Ukrainian diaspora (at least one and a half million people), Poland offers simplified procedures for integration, employment and study. A work-based residence permit is issued if there is a contract, and students receive a permit upon invitation from a university. Poland also supports the integration of Ukrainians through language courses and social programs.
• Germany. With more than one million Ukrainians, Germany is the leader in the number of refugees. A residence permit here is easiest to obtain through employment or study. Germany also offers programs for qualified specialists, which facilitates the process.
• Czech Republic. The Czech Republic (over 370,000 Ukrainians) has simplified procedures for those who work or are reuniting with their family. The Czech authorities actively help with paperwork, especially for employees.
• Slovakia. This country attracts Ukrainians due to its low cost of living and simplified employment requirements, particularly for those with temporary protection. A residence permit is more often obtained by Ukrainian citizens on the basis of employment.
• Spain. With over 180,000 Ukrainian citizens, Spain offers various opportunities for legalizing their stay. The country is in great demand among Ukrainian citizens who previously lived in other European Union countries, and is also attractive due to the availability of various options for obtaining a residence permit.

These and other European Union countries are already creating different and often favorable conditions for Ukrainian citizens, but the choice depends on individual circumstances, as well as bureaucratic features in a particular country.

Legal support for obtaining a residence permit in Europe

The law firm "Prikhodko&Partners" specializes in supporting Ukrainian citizens in obtaining a residence permit in Europe. We offer a comprehensive approach that includes:

Analysis of the situation and selection of a country. We assess your circumstances (education, work experience, family status) and recommend European countries with the simplest procedures.

Choosing the optimal basis. Our lawyers help you choose the most advantageous basis for obtaining a residence permit - whether it is employment, entrepreneurship or family reunification.

Preparation of documents. We ensure the correct execution of all necessary documents that meet the requirements of the migration legislation of the European Union countries, and support you at all stages of submission, helping to avoid mistakes.

Individual strategy. We develop a personalized plan, taking into account your goals - from temporary stay to long-term integration and obtaining citizenship of an EU country.

Leave a request, find out the cost of a migration lawyer's services and take the first steps towards obtaining a residence permit in your chosen European country today!