The EU is preparing to end temporary protection for Ukrainians: what options are available for refugees?

The European Union has begun preparations to end temporary protection for Ukrainians, offering new scenarios for legalisation or voluntary return to their homeland. Find out what steps you need to take now to secure your future after 2027

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Since the start of russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, millions of Ukrainians have found refuge in European Union countries thanks to the temporary protection mechanism. This status gave them the right to live, work, receive medical care and education. However, it is limited in time, expiring on 4 March 2027, and the EU is already developing a clear plan for the transition to the next phase.

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A smooth transition from temporary protection

The European Commission has presented a strategy aimed at avoiding a legal vacuum and ensuring predictability for Ukrainians in the EU. This is not about abolishing protection — it is a preparatory phase to give every refugee enough time and information to decide whether to stay, change their status or return to Ukraine with support.

New legal grounds for residence

The main alternative is to apply for other types of residence permits:

▪️ Work visas and work permits, including Blue Cards and Single Permits — for those who have already integrated into the labour market.

▪️ Family reunification — if relatives are already legally residing in the EU.

▪️ Education and vocational training — for young people, students and those who want to change their field of activity.

EU countries will encourage such transitions by providing explanatory information, support in submitting applications and counselling.

Read: Can I leave the EU after applying for temporary protection and then return?

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Voluntary return to Ukraine

The EU stresses that return must be voluntary and accompanied by practical assistance:

1. Fact-finding trips to Ukraine to assess the possibility of return (e.g. inspection of housing, state of communities).

2. Annual support programmes for those who decide to return, with compensation for transport, logistics, support and assistance in adaptation.

3. Additional time, for example, the possibility for children to stay until the end of the school year.

4. A special approach to vulnerable groups, such as pensioners, people with disabilities and families with young children.

A key element of the European strategy is a large-scale information campaign targeting Ukrainians in different countries, including the creation of Unity Hubs — advice and assistance centres on legalisation, status, education and rights.

The EU proposes to finance such centres from the EU budget in partnership with Ukrainian organisations and embassies.

In addition, the EU proposes to disseminate information in Ukrainian through portals, media, social networks and offline events.

Cooperation with Ukraine

To ensure that EU actions are in line with the realities in Ukraine, the Solidarity Platform is actively working on:

▪️ Exchanging up-to-date data on the number and status of Ukrainians in EU countries.

▪️ Joint planning of returns, including through Ukrainian ministries.

▪️ Updating information materials so that Ukrainians can make decisions based on reliable information.

Remember that Visit Ukraine provides support to Ukrainians abroad: our certified migration lawyers will help you understand the new rules, prepare documents and apply for the appropriate status in the EU.

We remind you! In 2025, a foreign passport will be a mandatory requirement for most Ukrainians planning to cross the border. Learn more about why you need to apply for a foreign passport and in which cases this document is not necessary.

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