In Germany, after the formation of a new coalition, conditions for refugees from Ukraine may change

In Germany, following the formation of a new coalition, serious changes are in store for Ukrainians with temporary protection. There are plans to gradually phase out the current status, tighten controls, reduce payments for new arrivals and tighten integration and employment requirements. Find out how the new rules will affect Ukrainian refugees and what you need to do to remain in the country legally

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The 2025 elections led to the formation of a new ruling coalition in Germany consisting of the CDU, CSU and SPD parties. Under the leadership of Chancellor Friedrich Merz, this ‘black-red’ coalition has set a course for reforming migration policy, including significant changes for Ukrainians under temporary protection. We explain what refugees from Ukraine can expect.

Temporary protection extended until March 2027. What happens next?

The European Commission has proposed extending temporary protection for Ukrainian refugees throughout the EU until 4 March 2027. After this date, the EU plans to develop a strategy that will allow them to transition to a new legal status or return to their home country.

The coalition agreement in Germany stipulates that temporary protection will be discontinued by 2027 and refugees will have to switch to other visa categories — such as work or student visas — for further legal residence.

Social benefits

Ukrainians who arrived after 1 April 2025 will no longer be eligible for Bürgergeld (~€563 per month) but will receive benefits under the Asylum Seekers Benefits Act, approximately €460.

Payments under the new system will be differentiated — for example, €441 for single persons, €397 for married couples/cohabiting partners and less for young people and children. Ukrainians who are already in Germany before this date will retain their previous status and payments.

Control and integration

The new coalition plans to speed up and simplify the asylum process: transit centres will be set up, application processing times will be shortened, and vulnerable groups will be given priority.

Special attention will be paid to employment, especially in areas with staff shortages, such as healthcare, elderly care, IT, logistics and construction. There are plans to expand free language courses, scholarships, vocational training programmes and support programmes for single parents.

In addition, the coalition intends to tighten screening measures, speed up deportations and strengthen controls on those without legal status.

Chancellor Merz announced a ‘de facto ban on illegal migrants’ and reforms aimed at strengthening border controls and deportations.

Ukrainians in Germany

Approximately 1.2–1.25 million Ukrainians have been granted temporary protection in Germany; 60% of them are women. According to statistics, about 43% of Ukrainians of working age are already employed, which indicates their high adaptability and desire to integrate into the German economy.

Therefore, for Ukrainians, as a fairly large diaspora, these changes bring both restrictions and new opportunities. If you arrived before 1 April 2025 and already have status, keep your previous payments, but be prepared for a possible transition to other visas and accelerated integration. For those arriving later, it is important to be aware of the reduction in benefits and the need to adapt to new conditions.

The Visit Ukraine platform offers the services of immigration lawyers who have experience working with European immigration systems and can help with preparing documents, drafting applications, and providing legal support in foreign jurisdictions.

Reminder! The federal states of Germany continue to accept Ukrainian refugees and provide them with support. However, certain categories of migrants may encounter difficulties when entering the country. Find out the latest information about the addresses of refugee camps, learn about accommodation conditions and the latest changes to the entry rules.

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