Temporary protection in the EU after the war

For citizens of Ukraine who have moved to the EU due to military events, temporary protection has become a key tool for legalization.

This status provides stability, but in connection with the migration policies of the EU countries, as well as the potential cancellation of the status, the question arises about further stay.

Below, we will examine the main aspects related to temporary protection, residence permits, and prospects for Ukrainians in the EU.

What does temporary protection provide?

Temporary protection for citizens of Ukraine in the EU is the fastest and most convenient option for initial legalization.

Introduced in March 2022, it grants access to work and education for children, ensuring basic security and integration.

Currently, more than 5 million Ukrainians have used this status, mainly in Germany, Poland, and the Czech Republic.

Temporary protection serves as a springboard for further steps: it allows you to assess the situation, adapt, and choose a specific EU country for long-term residence.

Without the need for complex procedures at the start, this mechanism facilitates the transition to applying for a residence permit when a citizen of Ukraine decides to settle in the chosen state.

Thanks to temporary protection, Ukrainians can plan the future, without wasting time on bureaucratic obstacles, and gradually integrate into EU society.

Will temporary protection be canceled?

Temporary protection for citizens of Ukraine is temporary in nature, and its extension depends on the situation in Ukraine and the policies of specific countries.

Currently, the status has been extended until March 2027, but after the war ends, some EU countries plan to cancel it, forcing Ukrainians to legalize their stay based on existing residence permit laws.

For example, individual states may require a residence permit through employment, study, or family circumstances.

Other EU countries are considering providing an alternative residence permit specifically based on previous temporary protection, facilitating the transition.

The EU Council recommends a gradual phase-out of the status, taking into account the conditions for return and reintegration in Ukraine, but this issue fully depends on the policy of the specific state.

For citizens of Ukraine, this means the necessity of monitoring changes in the legislation of each EU country, as well as the necessity of gradually making a decision about applying for a residence permit.

Is it necessary to obtain a residence permit now?

Temporary protection for citizens of Ukraine in the EU remains active until a defined date and can potentially be extended, depending on the development of events.

However, after the war ends, this issue will become central for Ukrainians, as the status is not permanent.

Obtaining a residence permit now allows you to start the count of the necessary period of residence, which is key to obtaining a permanent residence permit, and subsequently EU citizenship of the country you choose.

This is especially relevant for those planning a long-term stay in the EU, as obtaining a residence permit now provides stability and avoids risks associated with the possible cancellation of temporary protection.

In EU countries, such as Germany or Poland, where many Ukrainians reside, the process may be potentially simplified for temporary protection holders. In particular, the introduction of a residence permit based on temporary protection "CUKR" is planned in Poland.

Thus, citizens of Ukraine in certain countries gain an advantage in integration, without waiting for uncertainty.

In which countries is it easiest to obtain a residence permit?

Obtaining a residence permit in the EU depends on the legislation of the specific country, and it is best to choose from the options available in the state where you plan to stay.

If there is no attachment to a specific country, then selecting the optimal basis for a residence permit is possible taking into account the individual situation.

Our lawyers can help evaluate the options so that the residence permit in the EU meets your needs without significant complications.

How can we help?

The law firm «Prikhodko & Partners» offers support in matters related to temporary protection and residence permits in the EU, specifically we help:

1. Choose the optimal basis for stay, and also tell you about the peculiarities of legalization in a specific EU country.
2. Help obtain a residence permit in the chosen country by preparing the necessary documents.
3. Organize support in obtaining temporary protection, including submitting applications.
4. Provide consultations on extending the status or transitioning to a permanent residence permit.
5. Support in assessing the risks of temporary protection cancellation and planning further steps in the EU.