The EU is preparing to gradually abolish temporary protection for Ukrainians: what is known

The European Union has developed a plan to gradually phase out temporary protection for Ukrainians. The new recommendations provide for a transition to other forms of legal residence, voluntary return programs, and support for reintegration in Ukraine. Find out what changes are expected and what options will remain available

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The Council of the European Union has adopted recommendations for member states on the phasing out of temporary protection for Ukrainians. These recommendations concern the creation of conditions for voluntary return, support for reintegration, and the transition to other forms of legal residence when the situation in Ukraine allows for safe return.

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What do the EU recommendations entail?

According to the adopted document, member states should:

- enable Ukrainians to switch to national residence permits for study, work, or family reasons;

- allow applications for other legal statuses within the framework of EU legislation;

- support reintegration through familiarization visits to Ukraine;

- introduce voluntary return programs agreed with the Ukrainian authorities;

- maintain access to housing, healthcare, and education for those participating in such programs;

- provide accessible information about the consequences of changing status and possible options.

Separately, the EU recommends creating information systems and conducting campaigns on voluntary return.

It also proposes the establishment of so-called Unity Hubs, which could be funded by EU programs and serve as contact points for Ukrainians in member states. They will be able to assist with documents, provide employment advice, and other services.

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Ukraine's position: no pressure or coercion

The Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has welcomed the EU's recommendations to end temporary protection for Ukrainians. As Foreign Ministry spokesman Georgiy Tykhyi emphasized during a briefing, according to an NV correspondent, the EU's decision was made after consultations with Kyiv, and Ukraine is currently awaiting the final text of the document.

“Ukraine was involved in the consultation process in the European Council and also made proposals of its own. There are no surprises in this decision,” he said.

The Foreign Ministry emphasizes that this is not about forced return, but only about creating opportunities for Ukrainians to obtain a more predictable and stable legal status in EU countries.

It is also recalled that in July, the European Union extended temporary protection until March 4, 2027, and this decision remains in force. The new recommendations do not repeal this provision, but only offer member states more flexible tools to regulate the status of Ukrainians.

"We understand that this concerns a very large group of people. There cannot be a unified approach here, because all people have different life circumstances and different plans for their lives. Of course, as the Ukrainian government, we will welcome and encourage the return of citizens to Ukraine," added Tykhyi.

As is known, since 2022, the EU has provided temporary protection to more than 4 million Ukrainians who fled the war.

As emphasized by Danish Minister of Immigration and Integration Kaare Dybvad Beck, “support for Ukraine remains unwavering, but at the same time, we must prepare for the day when Ukrainians can return home and join in rebuilding their country.”

The recommendations adopted are not binding, but they set a common framework for EU countries and allow for coordination of efforts in preparation for the future end of temporary protection.

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Reminder! We previously reported that temporary protection for Ukrainians will continue to apply in most EU countries in 2025, guaranteeing the right to legally live, work, study, and receive medical care. Find out which countries provide protection for Ukrainians abroad and what rights it guarantees in our article.

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