How Ukrainians can obtain social assistance in France: explained by lawyers from Visit Ukraine

In France, Ukrainians with temporary protection can receive financial assistance, housing, and medical care under the same conditions as citizens of the country. Find out how to apply for social support and what benefits are available to displaced persons

Legal counselling on migration issues

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Ukrainians who have been granted temporary protection status in France and an APS (autorisation provisoire de séjour) document marked ‘bénéficiaire de protection temporaire’ are entitled to state support. The French social assistance system CAF (Caisse d'Allocations Familiales) provides access to the same types of benefits as for local residents. This applies to housing, children and medical care.

Below, Visit Ukraine lawyers explain how Ukrainians can obtain social assistance in France and where to apply.

Main types of support

The most common form of assistance is compensation for housing costs. The state partially covers the cost of renting an apartment or room, and the amount depends on the family composition, income and region of residence. Families with children can count on monthly benefits and special payments for the birth of a child, as well as additional funds for children with disabilities.

In addition, Ukrainians with valid temporary protection status are entitled to medical insurance. This gives them access to state clinics and allows them to receive treatment free of charge or at a reduced rate. In some cases, it is possible to take out additional medical coverage, which is similar to private insurance and compensates for services not included in the basic system.

How to apply for assistance

The first step is to register on the official website caf.fr, where you need to create a personal account (Mon Compte). After that, it is important to prepare the documents: identity card or passport, confirmation of temporary protection, income certificate and rental agreement. This information is required to confirm your entitlement to benefits and calculate their amount.

Next, you need to fill out an online application form and upload all scanned documents. In some departments, it is still possible to submit paper documents, but electronic forms are preferred. After submitting your application, you should regularly check your account, as this is where you will receive notifications about decisions and requests for clarification of data.

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What to consider when applying

The CAF closely monitors changes in applicants' personal circumstances. If you have moved, found a job, your income has changed or you have had a baby, you must report this to the system. Failure to provide up-to-date information may result in a review of your benefits or even their suspension.

In some regions of France, there are special consultants who help Ukrainians understand the procedures and fill out forms. You can find them through the CAF contact page or by calling the hotline. The official portal often publishes instructions in English and Ukrainian, which simplifies the process for migrants.

Recommendations from Visit Ukraine lawyers

Experts advise starting the application process immediately after receiving your APS, without waiting for employment or a stable income — some benefits are automatically assigned after your documents are verified. It is also important to have a French bank account, as this is where the funds will be transferred.

If your application is rejected, carefully study the reasons — this is often due to incomplete documents or technical errors. In such cases, you can appeal by adding the corrected data. Visit Ukraine lawyers help you fill out applications, translate documents, and prepare appeals to CAF to avoid delays and misunderstandings.

Get help with immigration issues

Many Ukrainians face difficulties in confirming their right to housing or in continuing payments. In such cases, our lawyers will help you check your status, prepare documents, and explain how to submit an application correctly.

The Visit Ukraine team also assists clients in obtaining health insurance, finding accommodation, and legalising their stay in France. Sign up for a consultation to receive personalised assistance and protect your rights under French law.

Reminder! If you are planning a trip to Ukraine in 2025, it is important to know all the current conditions for entry and visa application for French citizens. Find out whether French citizens need a visa to Ukraine in 2025, how to apply for a tourist or long-term visa, what documents are required, as well as the requirements for insurance and legal support for foreigners from Visit Ukraine.

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