Does Spain grant temporary protection after other countries?

Spain attracts Ukrainian migrants with its warm climate, high standard of living, moderate prices and transparent employment and education conditions. Refugees often move to Spain from other regions of Europe. Find out if you can change your country of temporary protection and how to obtain temporary protection in Spain after another country

Legal advice on migration issues

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In early March 2025, the Visit Ukraine portal published information about the total number of Ukrainian refugees who had been granted asylum in Spain – 236,570 people. According to statistics, this is 4.9% of the displaced persons who received temporary protection in all European countries. Ukrainians in Spain in 2025 have opportunities for education, employment, tourism and emigration. This article tells you everything you need to know about temporary protection in Spain for Ukrainians from other countries.

If you are wondering how to obtain temporary protection in Spain in 2025, we recommend that you seek qualified assistance from immigration lawyers. They will not only tell you when you can obtain refugee status in Spain or how to reapply for temporary protection, but will also advise you in the following cases:

– preparing documents for crossing the Spanish border for any purpose;

– obtaining a temporary or permanent residence permit in Spain;

– family reunification abroad.

What is temporary protection and who is eligible for it in Spain?

Temporary protection is a social status granted to Ukrainians who were forced to leave Ukraine after 22 February 2024 and migrated to Spain (or other countries). To obtain temporary protection in Spain, you must confirm your Ukrainian citizenship and state the reasons for your migration.

In Spain, temporary protection is not always granted automatically – there may be a certain period after which a Ukrainian will receive the specified social status. If you want to move to the country for permanent residence, you can use other ways of legalisation in Spain.

Temporary protection in Spain for Ukrainians: legal framework

In Spain, EU Directive 2001/55/EC has been implemented through relevant national acts allowing the provision of temporary protection to Ukrainians. The decision to activate and extend this protection is taken by the European Council, and Spain, as a member of the EU, is obliged to comply with these decisions. Currently, the European Union has extended temporary protection until 4 March 2027.

Find out what rights Ukrainians who have been granted temporary protection in Spain have. May your stay in this sunny country be as comfortable as possible for you.

Who can obtain temporary protection in Spain in 2025?

According to current legislation and EU decisions, in 2025, the following persons are entitled to temporary protection in Spain:

1. Citizens of Ukraine who lived in Ukraine before 24 February 2022.

2. Stateless persons and citizens of third countries who had international protection (e.g. refugee status) or equivalent national protection in Ukraine before 24 February 2022.

3. Stateless persons and third-country nationals who can prove that they were legally residing in Ukraine on the basis of a valid permanent residence permit issued in accordance with Ukrainian law and who cannot safely and permanently return to their country or region of origin.

4. Family members of the above categories of persons, even if they are not citizens of Ukraine. Family members usually include spouses, unmarried minor children, and other close relatives who were dependent or living together.

Can I get temporary protection in Spain if I have already been in another country?

Yes, in theory, Spain can grant temporary protection even if you have already received it in another European Union country (e.g. Poland or Germany). However, the process has certain features and limitations.

Follow the link for comprehensive information on re-obtaining temporary protection. Find out who can obtain temporary protection again, which countries do not grant status again, and what to do if your application is rejected.

See the list of countries that will grant temporary protection again in 2025 and find out what requirements they impose on migrants on the Visit Ukraine portal.

How does the ‘first country of protection’ principle work?

According to the EU Temporary Protection Directive, a person can only have this status in one EU country at a time. This means that when you get temporary protection in Spain, your previous temporary protection status given by another EU country will automatically end or be cancelled.

The systems exchange information to avoid double protection. However, you must renounce your temporary protection status yourself if you intend to change your country of residence (provided that this procedure is available in your country).

When can I change my country of temporary protection?

The desire to change the country of temporary protection is not enough. In most cases, you will be required to confirm that your status in the previous country has been cancelled. In addition, a change is possible under compelling circumstances, such as family reunification, employment, the possibility of obtaining housing, lack of assistance in the previous country, etc.

Attention! Some countries in the Schengen area are introducing temporary border controls. Follow the link and check the information before travelling.

What documents do I need to have with me to apply for temporary protection in Spain after another country?

To apply for temporary protection, regardless of whether you are applying for the first time or changing countries, you will need:

1. A document proving your identity and citizenship (foreign passport, internal passport, birth certificate for children). Even if some documents are missing, the application will still be accepted.

2. Documents confirming your residence in Ukraine before 24 February 2022 (e.g. registration at your place of residence, certificates confirming your studies or employment).

3. Documents confirming family ties (marriage certificate, birth certificates of children) if you are travelling with your family or joining them.

Compulsory car insurance in Spain – important information for Ukrainian drivers.

What to do upon arrival in Spain?

Upon arrival in Spain, you must complete the following steps:

1. Rent temporary accommodation (for up to 3 months) while you are processing your documents.

2. Contact your local police station and apply for temporary protection.

3. Wait for a decision and, once approved, obtain a residence permit.

4. Rent long-term accommodation after receiving your TIE card.

For step-by-step instructions on how to obtain a TIE card, follow the link on the Visit Ukraine portal.

Situations can be complicated, especially when changing the country of protection or if you do not have a complete set of documents. Legal support in such cases is critically important — Visit Ukraine lawyers will help you assess your chances, gather documents, and avoid mistakes.

What to do if you are denied temporary protection?

Refusal to grant temporary protection in Spain is rare for Ukrainian citizens, as the criteria are quite broad. However, if such a situation does arise, there are possibilities for appeal:

Possibility of appeal: You have the right to appeal (recurso) against the refusal decision. The deadlines and procedure for appeal are clearly regulated by Spanish law. When considering such a matter, we recommend seeking the advice of an immigration lawyer.

Refugee status (Asilo): This is another form of international protection, which involves individual consideration of the application and requires proof of a well-founded fear of persecution. The process is longer and more complex.

Humanitarian visa/residence permit: In some cases, residence permits may be granted on humanitarian grounds, but this also requires individual consideration.

You may be interested in: Ukraine and Spain have signed a Joint Declaration on the creation of a Ukrainian Unity Hub – a support centre for refugees.

How and where to apply for temporary protection in Spain?

To obtain temporary protection in Spain, you must contact one of the reception centres (Centros de Acogida, Atención y Derivación – CAED), which have been specially set up to help Ukrainians. They are located in large cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Malaga, Seville, etc.

The procedure is usually as follows:

1. Upon arrival in Spain, contact the nearest CAED.

2. At the centre, you will fill out the necessary forms and submit your documents. Interpreters will assist you on site.

3. At the centre, your fingerprints will be taken and your photo will be taken.

4. On the same day or within a short period of time, you will be issued a document (a white TIE card) confirming that you have been granted temporary protection and allowing you to legally stay in the country, work and receive social services. Your NIE card will become your foreigner identification number.

Planning to emigrate to Spain? Find out everything you need to know about obtaining a visa, relocation options, rules for obtaining a residence permit and work permit.

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How to move to Spain from Ukraine or another EU country?

To enter Spain from Ukraine or another EU country, you will need:

1. A foreign biometric passport is the best option. If you do not have one, you can use your internal passport or birth certificate for children.

2. Proof that you belong to a category of persons entitled to temporary protection.

Want to find out the cost of living in Spain? Follow the link.

Does Spain accept cars with foreign registration?

Yes, Spain accepts cars with foreign registration. Ukrainian cars can stay in Spain for a certain period without customs clearance. However, to legally drive in Europe and Spain with a Ukrainian-registered car, you must have an international insurance policy – a Green Card. This insurance is mandatory and covers the driver's liability for damage caused to third parties in a traffic accident. You can quickly and conveniently obtain a Green Card online at Visit Ukraine.

Find a detailed guide for drivers in Spain on the Visit Ukraine portal.

Do I need medical insurance to enter Spain?

For Ukrainian citizens seeking temporary protection, separate travel medical insurance is not strictly required to cross the border, as you will have access to the Spanish public healthcare system once you have been granted temporary protection. However, it is strongly recommended that you take out medical insurance for the duration of your trip and the first few days of your stay until you have official access to local medical services. This will protect you from unexpected medical expenses during the transition period.

Find out everything you need to know about insurance for entry into Spain – be confident in the comfort and safety of your trip.

Tips for those planning to move to Spain in 2025

1. Gather a complete set of documents: Always carry all documents that prove your identity and confirm your right to temporary protection.

2. Officially renounce protection in your previous country (if possible): Although your status will be automatically revoked, it is good practice to inform the authorities of your previous country of your departure.

3. Consult a lawyer: Especially in complex cases, such as changing the country of temporary protection, having chronic illnesses or not having a complete set of documents.

4. Get medical insurance and a ‘Green Card’: Ensure your safety and compliance with the law by obtaining a ‘Green Card’ for your car and medical insurance for yourself.

5. Learn the basics of Spanish: A basic knowledge of the language will make your adaptation and everyday life much easier.

6. Be ready to adapt: The process of adapting to a new country always takes time and effort. Be patient and open to new experiences.

Spain is a country that provides support and opportunities to start a new life. By following these recommendations, you can make your move as comfortable and safe as possible.

Reminder! We previously discussed when Ukrainians need a visa to Spain and how to apply for one.

Photo: generated by Gemini

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