Ukrainians are increasingly seeking asylum in the EU: statistics and reasons for the increase in applications

Ukrainian citizens are increasingly applying for asylum in EU countries. Find out why the number of applications is growing and which countries are receiving the most applications

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In the first half of 2025, Ukrainians began to apply for asylum in European Union countries more frequently. In six months, almost 16,000 applications were recorded, which is 29% more than in the same period last year. This is evidenced by data from the EU Agency for Asylum (EUAA).

Why is the number of asylum applications from Ukrainians increasing?

According to the news agency dpa, the reason for this increase is the desire of Ukrainians to obtain the right to long-term residence in EU countries.

Currently, Ukrainian citizens enjoy protection under the EU Temporary Protection Directive, which guarantees them legal residence, access to social services, healthcare, and education. At the same time, temporary status is valid for a limited period, and many Ukrainians see obtaining asylum seeker status as a way to secure a more stable future for themselves.

Recently, Ukrainians have been particularly active in submitting applications in France, which is one of the leaders in terms of the number of applications.

Read also: Almost all Ukrainians living in the EU are not eligible for citizenship there — why?

The overall situation with asylum in the EU

Despite the increase in the number of applications from Ukrainians, the total number of applications in EU countries in the first half of 2025 decreased by 23% compared to the same period last year — 399,000 applications were recorded.

The largest decrease was observed among Syrian citizens — by two-thirds, to 25,000 applications.

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Who submits the most asylum applications

In the first half of 2025, the largest number of applications in EU countries were submitted by:

● Venezuelans — 49,000;

● Afghans — 42,000;

● Ukrainians — almost 16,000.

Read also: The number of Ukrainians with temporary protection in Europe has increased again

Top 5 countries by number of applications

European countries with the highest number of asylum applications in January-June 2025:

● France — 78,000;

● Spain — 77,000;

● Germany — 70,000;

● Italy — 64,000;

● Greece — 27,000.

These figures indicate an uneven distribution of the burden between EU countries and the priorities of the applicants themselves.

What this means for Ukrainians

For Ukrainians residing in the EU, the main challenge remains the issue of stability and duration of legal status. Temporary protection has been extended, but it does not guarantee a permanent right of residence. Therefore, some Ukrainians are looking for ways to legalize their status in Europe for a longer stay.

At the same time, it is important to remember that obtaining asylum seeker status is a complex and lengthy procedure that does not always end with a positive decision. Therefore, before submitting an application, it is important to weigh all the pros and cons. To consult on options for legalization in your situation, contact Visit Ukraine's immigration lawyers.

In addition to legal issues, security and insurance remain important aspects. Ukrainians who travel or temporarily reside abroad often face requirements for medical insurance. To feel protected, take out insurance that is valid in all EU countries. You can do this online on the Visit Ukraine portal. Having a policy will help you avoid unexpected expenses in case of emergencies and give you confidence while staying outside Ukraine.

We remind you! Temporary protection for Ukrainians 2025 continues to apply in most EU countries, ensuring the right to legally live, work, study, and receive medical care. Read about which countries provide protection for Ukrainians abroad, what rights it guarantees, how to apply for documents, and what features exist in Poland, Germany, the Czech Republic, and other countries in our previous article.

Photo: EPA / ANTONIO COTRIMEPA

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