What are Ukrainians preparing for when temporary protection in the EU ends?

Almost 4.3 million Ukrainians are still under temporary protection in EU countries, but this protection is gradually coming to an end. What will happen after 2027: will it be extended, will they return home, or will they transition to other statuses? Find out what to prepare for and what decisions EU countries are considering

Legal counselling on migration issues

GET

Currently, nearly 4.3 million Ukrainians are exercising their right to temporary protection in European Union countries. This status has become a real lifeline for millions of families, allowing them to legally live, work and receive social support in Europe. However, the directive is limited in duration, and the question of what will happen after 4 March 2027 is becoming increasingly relevant.

When does temporary protection expire?

The temporary protection mechanism was introduced in March 2022 and has been extended several times. At the moment, it is set to expire on 4 March 2027. After this date, EU member states will have to decide whether to extend the directive once again, offer alternative grounds for residence, or begin a gradual phase-out of the programme. At the same time, as Ukrainian and European officials emphasise, any decisions will be made taking into account the security situation in Ukraine.

Possible scenarios after the end of the programme

Ilona Gavronska, Deputy Minister of Social Policy of Ukraine for European Integration, noted that Ukrainians need to be prepared for several possible scenarios.

▪️ Transition to other types of residence. Many will be able to obtain a residence permit for employment, study, family circumstances or entrepreneurship.

▪️ Voluntary return to Ukraine. For those who plan to return, the government, together with the EU, is preparing safe mechanisms for return and adaptation.

▪️ Request for international protection. If a person cannot return to Ukraine due to personal circumstances or threats, they will be able to seek asylum under the Geneva Convention.

In addition, the EU is considering extending protection for certain categories, primarily families with children, so as not to interrupt the school year.

Don't want to miss important updates and useful articles? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter!

Ukrainians' readiness to return

According to data from the Ministry of Social Policy, about 64% of Ukrainians under temporary protection express a desire to return home when conditions are safe. To ensure that this process is organised, Ukraine, together with its European partners, is developing a network of unity — an initiative that will bring together support centres, Ukrainian communities and civil society organisations abroad. Their task is to help people stay in touch with their homeland, receive up-to-date information and make informed decisions about the future.

Need help with immigration issues?

Contact the lawyers at Visit Ukraine for advice.

Reminder! A new rule will come into force in the United States in mid-October, which has already caused a storm of reaction among migrants and human rights activists. The Department of Homeland Security is introducing a mandatory fee for humanitarian residence permits. Find out who will be affected by the new fee and whether there will be exceptions for participants in humanitarian programmes.

Want to know more? Read the latest news and useful materials about Ukraine and the world in the News section.

Our recommendation for a safe and comfortable trip: 

Visit Ukraine Insurance - insurance for a safe stay abroad without unnecessary expenses;

Green Card - compulsory car insurance for traveling abroad;

Visit Ukraine Tickets - book tickets for buses, trains, and airplanes to/from Ukraine and between cities around the world;

Private Lawyer service - professional legal support on visa and migration issues;

Visit Ukraine Merch - buy patriotic clothing and accessories with worldwide delivery.

© 2018-2025, Visit Ukraine. Use, copying or reprinting of materials on this site is permitted only with a link (hyperlink for online publications) to Visit Ukraine.

All rights reserved.